Synthesizing Structuration and Institutional Theory: three cases

Abstract

Research suggests that it is difficult to predict the influence of information technology (IT) on organizations. Using the structuration approach, theorists like Orlikowski suggest technology's effect is context dependent. Within organizations, structuration theory suggests IT's use and understanding reflects the interaction of individuals, social structures, and features of the technology. However, in the public sector, external institutions play an important role in shaping the development of internal structures. This paper develops a conceptual framework that links institutions and organizations social structures to the use and understanding of information technology in the public sector. To develop a more accurate image of the structuring process, it suggests theory should explicitly model the influence of regulative, normative, and cognitive institutions on how technology is used and perceived in government organizations.