Shaping Organization Form: Communication, Connection, and Community

Modern communication technologies are providing the potential to redesign the structure of the firm and the ways in which work is conducted. From telephones and electronic mail to more sophisticated systems, such as electronic conferencing, discussion databases, cognitive mapping, and group decision support software, communication systems are being used to rethink the practice of management and organization - whether formal work arrangements or self-created "virtual" communities. This thought-provoking volume considers the role of new communication technologies in shaping organizations today and in the future. Four key themes are considered in depth: Changes in technology, changes in organizational form, and their mutual influence on one another Evolutionary processes in organizations and the ways in which technology can influence these processes The development of organizational communities and interorganizational relationships that are mediated by electronic communication systems Major controversies surrounding electronically mediated organizations and directions for future research that flow out of these controversies. The contributing authors of Shaping Organization Form have collaborated to write an essential volume for the students of the organizations of the future.