Working Around Enterprise Social Media

• In Event: Exploring the Role of Technological Affordances for Processes of Organizing

Abstract

Although an increasing number of organizations are introducing Enterprise Social Media (ESM) platforms, few studies have empirically investigated the effects of such technologies on knowledge workers’ practices. This qualitative study was conducted at a multinational IT consultancy firm implementing an ESM to reduce the strain induced by email use. Based on online observations and interviews, we encountered different constraints that emerged from ESM use instead of email. To cope with these constraints, people employed various work-arounds in order to circumvent the control sought after by management, without being restricted in their agency. Paradoxically, while increased knowledge sharing was the main (formal) reason to restrict email use and introduce ESM, the organizational policy only made it more difficult. This research not only contributes to growing literature on affordances of ESM but also provides insights into how people cope with the introduction of ICT that does not fit existing ‘institutional properties’.

Authors

• Nick Oostervink, VU U - Amsterdam

• Marlous Agterberg, VU U - Amsterdam

• Marleen Huysman, VU U - Amsterdam