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Working with Technology in Complex Networks of Interaction

Riikka Vuokko, Helena Karsten, Working with Technology in Complex Networks of Interaction. In: T. McMaster, D. Wastell, E. Ferneley, J.I. DeGross (Eds.), Organizational Dynamics of Technology-Based Innovation: Diversifying the Research Agenda, IFIP International Federation for Information Processing 235, 11–22, Springer, 2007.

Abstract:

Contemporary issues such as increases in operational scope,
connectivity, and dynamism in organizations have meant also
a corresponding increase of complexity in producing everyday
interaction. A simple task on the individual level can be
approached as a part of complicated whole or even as adding
to complexity on the organizational level. In this paper, we
compare two strong metaphors for studying complex nonlinear
interaction in heterogeneous networks: complexity theory and
actor network theory. Both examine sociotechnical phenomena
as evolving in ongoing negotiations of participants within
complex networks. Understanding complex networks can add to
our understanding of relationships between social actors and
technical artefacts, that is, of information systems in use.
As an example, we introduce a study of work practices in
intensive care. We argue that this work is carried out as
multiple and interdependent interactions further generating
complexity in a network of humans, technical artefacts, and
other materials. In such socio-technical networks, work
practices, new technology, and work processes are negotiated
or made irreversible through the actions of participants.

BibTeX entry:

@INBOOK{inpVuKa07a,
  title = {Working with Technology in Complex Networks of Interaction},
  booktitle = {Organizational Dynamics of Technology-Based Innovation: Diversifying the Research Agenda},
  author = {Vuokko, Riikka and Karsten, Helena},
  volume = {235},
  series = {IFIP International Federation for Information Processing},
  editor = {McMaster, T. and Wastell, D. and Ferneley, E. and DeGross, J.I.},
  publisher = {Springer},
  pages = {11–22},
  year = {2007},
  keywords = {actor-network theory, complexity theory, work practices, intensive care},
}

Belongs to TUCS Research Unit(s): Zeta Emerging Technologies, Institute for Advanced Management Systems Research (IAMSR)

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