Managers' innovations and the structuration of organizations

Article Abstract:

Drawing on interview data from managers in three organizations a theoretical framework based on structuration theory is offered for understanding the social construction of innovation in a way that overcomes the duality of individual and structural perspectives that fragments the literature on innovation and other related domains. Three case studies, one from each organization, illustrate and help link the elements of an argument that focuses first on how an organization's openness to its external environment allows for conflicting interpretations of necessary action. Individual agents exploit the ambiguity, making choices which help sustain or develop their self-identities, drawing on experience to shape innovations that promise to reconcile the constraints of the personal and organizational domains. Their capacity to transform circumstances in the desired direction depends on the extent to which they can deploy personal and organizational resources to negotiate appropriate meanings through social and political relationships with relevant others. The socio-political process and the substance of the innovation have reciprocal effects, yielding the possibility of agreement on a 'working innovation' which, once institutionalized, modifies the existing system and structures in ways that constrain, in new modes, the behaviours of all of those involved. (Reprinted by permission of the publisher.)

Case studies, Innovations, Management, Executives, Organizational effectiveness, Organizational behavior

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The Configuration of Organizational Images Among Firms in the Canadian Beer Brewing Industry

Article Abstract:

An analysis of organizational self-categorizations in Canada's beer brewing industry is presented, mapping image categories and identity attributes drawn from web site communications. Breweries establish legitimacy claims that are aimed at relevant stakeholders, explaining field-level configurations resulting from the analysis.

Malt beverages, Public affairs, Public Relations Methods, Methods, Brewing industry, Breweries, Comparative analysis, Public relations, Company public relations, Brand image, Brand identity

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Politics and organizational learning

Article Abstract:

This article discusses the political aspects of workplace learning and self-identity. Topics include organizational communication, creativity, and decision making.

Business Communications Mgmt, Social aspects, Decision-making, Decision making, Political aspects, Work environment, Organizational communication, Business creativity, Business communications services

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