From the computerization movement to computerization: a case study of community of practice (original) (raw)

We find mixed results when assessing how the expectations of the computerization movement fit with our case study of a high-tech organization that is heavily computerized. In the organization, "internetworking technologies" are the main local -as well as global -means of communication. We find that hyperconnectivity fosters collaboration, community of practice, and commitment to the organization. Yet the evidence only partially supports the "death of distance" and "democratization technological action" frames of Rob Kling and associates. The organization is a local virtuality, with email and instant messaging primarily supporting local, withindepartment connectivity. The organization remains a hierarchy, although extensive networking occurs within organizational constraints.