## 2 Research Framework
### Normative-Contingent Model of NPD Process Evaluation
#### 2.2.1 A Literature Review on NPD Evaluation Methodologies  
So far, different methods have been proposed in the literature to aid practitioners in evaluating their NPD processes. These methods are mostly provided in the form of generic self-evaluation models, intended to identify symptoms indicating process inefficiencies and to diagnose the causes. [PERSON] et al. [15] categorize current NPD evaluation methods based on two main criteria. The first focuses on evaluation logic, encompassing conformism (comparison with established normative requirements), coherence (evaluation of compliance with regulatory norms while considering the specific context), and estimates based on explicit modeling of cause-and-effect relationships. The second criterion considers the abstraction level of the knowledge base (the extent to which the evaluation concept can exclude subjectivism). Following these criteria, [PERSON] et al. [15] deduce that the majority of NPD evaluation models exhibit the features of (1) paradigmatic models: assessment of alignment with requirements that are articulated more as paradigms than as normative standards, which entails a high level of subjectivity; (2) normative models that aim to measure compliance with normative standards and establish specific comparison parameters; however, they overlook the importance of the contextual relevance of assessment norms; (3) normative-contingent models that adjust the reference assessment norms according to differing situational variables. The Table 1 provides an overview of NPD process evaluation models; the given overview should not be perceived as exhaustive, since it encompasses only those models pertinent to this research context. One of the notable approaches to the NPD process evaluation is grounding in the concept of maturity, which is characterized by the level of competencies and the sophistication or capability within a particular domain, as per a specified set of criteria [27]. Assessment of the NPD process maturity serves as a good reference point for evaluating the organization's NPD capability and setting up improvement initiatives. The literature recognizes several NPD maturity models, most of which are based on the Capability Maturity Model Integration (CMMI) [18]. Though initially established in the field of software engineering, this concept has since evolved and extended its reach beyond its initial domain. Models within the CMMI framework (SECM [19]; IPD-CMM [20], etc.) establish a set of objectives and competencies that must be cultivated across various domains (e.g., project management, process management, engineering processes, and support processes) and also provide structured and rather rigid evaluation procedures. However, most NPD maturity models focus on isolated evaluation aspects, such as product engineering. Examples encompass models aimed at evaluating compliance with simultaneous engineering practices and principles, including SEAssessment [21]; PACE [22]; BEACON [23]; and SEGAPAN [24]. [PERSON] et al. [25] proposed the MyWaste model, which introduces a procedure that can be recursively applied to continuously improve the NPD process through the analysis and elimination of waste and criticalities, resulting in improved performance of the entire development process. The approach embodies the lean principle of striving for perfection through continuous improvement efforts, while the MyTime [25] model is intended to identify issues within NPD process based on analyzing the time allocated to design and testing activities, knowledge recovery, creating specifications and documentation, and coordinating the participants involved, among other aspects. In recent years, there has been a substantial rise in the use of normative models grounded in best practice frameworks for NPD, which serve as benchmarks for attaining optimal practice standards. [PERSON] et al. [29] describe the concept of best practice as a method or approach that yields the most favorable outcomes when compared to all other acknowledged forms of action.