Effects of Media of Communication and Collaboration in Structural Change: Insights From a Computer-mediated Research Group

The focus of the article is on the interplay between media, organizational ideologies and structural change. It is argued that technology plays a significant role when seen in interaction with people in certain settings, referred to as media. Changes in media that favour members whose beliefs deviate from the dominant ideology may allow these members to take up more central organizational roles. Conversely, media in place may also serve to protect the existing organization structure. Therefore, there is a need to study carefully the impact of media of communication and collaboration on organizational evolution. The argument is supported by findings from a computer mediated research group. Suggestions are offered about the relevance of the findings for practitioners.