Improving communication, indepedent distribution channels

1) It is fairly obvious that the success rate of a new product would improve if communication between R&D and marketing improved. From a human resources perspective, what are some of the programs and incentives you could put in place to accomplish this?

2) An executive at a large package delivery company has complained that by shifting some of its business to independent channel members, the company has "lost control of the customer" what do you think he means by this statement? Why does he consider this to be bad for the company? Do you agree? What do you think are the fundamentals reasons for this company shifting some its business to independent channels of distribution?

3) List and explain the three possible relationships among perceived value, price and cost ignoring the competition for the present. If you consider the competition, then what is the perceived relationship among value, price and cost?