The fuzzy front end encompasses the first stages of new product development process. In that phase and period, the decisions are more strategic and are usually made with a high degree of uncertainty. This article aims to analyze and discuss the fuzzy front end management practices in small and medium medical device companies. The analysis is based on a conceptual model that was developed from the literature review and it consists of five dimensions of management: strategic orientation, process, organization, evaluation and tools. The results provide evidence that the studied companies have deficiencies in the adoption of best practices for managing the fuzzy front end, and the conceptual model suggested could serve as a basis for analysis, structuring and improving the fuzzy front end activities and performance.
Fuzzy front end; New product development; Medical device industry
