Finding solutions in an interdisciplinary environment

Our rapidly changing world is facing challenges that increasingly demand strong interdisciplinary components in academic projects to find the solutions we need. Successful interdisciplinary research can enhance knowledge and hence lead to new discoveries and innovation. In order to successfully work together in projects that span multiple disciplines, it is important to fully understand the challenges these projects face. We revisit the meaning of interdisciplinarity and evaluate why it has often proven very challenging. For example, one of the greatest challenges is finding a common ground when framing key research questions. We analyze and present an ideal scenario, where challenges and limitations are acknowledged but overcome, and suggest some techniques that can be used to plan and successfully undertake interdisciplinary projects.