Challenges in Conducting Empirical Work Using Structuration Theory: Learning from IT Research

Given the pervasiveness of information technology (IT) in human life at multiple levels – from individuals, to teams, organizations, markets, countries, and society – an increasing number of researchers have looked for alternative ways to study technology and organization interactions. One of the main perspectives that have been articulated by several researchers in IT is Giddens' structuration theory. However, the applicability of Giddens' concepts is not without difficulties. Two main points help explain the challenge of using a structurationist framework. First, structuration theory is complex, involving concepts and general propositions that operate at a high level of abstraction. Second, structuration theory is not easily coupled to any specific research method or methodological approach and it is difficult to apply empirically. Arguing that structuration theory is a valuable framework for a rich understanding of management, organization and related subjects of inquiry, this essay aims to discuss and improve the applicability of structuration theory to empirical work using IT research experience. It identifies and analyzes patterns of use of Giddens' theory in IT publications, and then describes how IT researchers using a structurationist framework have attempted to address its major empirical challenges. The paper presents a repertoire of research strategies that might guide students of organization in dealing with three elements that are central to structuration theory: time, context and duality of structure. The systematization of a repertoire of methodological strategies to apply Giddens' ideas is likely to increase the use of structuration theory, encouraging the improvement of existing, and the development of new, methodological strategies that ameliorate its empirical application. Résumé En raison de la place de plus en plus répandue qu'occupent les technologies de l'information (TI) dans les multiples sphères de la vie humaine-des individus, aux équipes, aux organismes, aux marchés, aux pays, et à la société-un nombre croissant de chercheurs ont tenté de trouver de nouvelles façons pour étudier les interactions de la technologie et de l'organisation. Une des principales perspectives qui ont été articulées par plusieurs chercheurs des TI est celle de la théorie de la structuration de Giddens. Cependant, l'applicabilité des concepts de Giddens n'est pas sans difficultés. Deux points importants expliquent le défi relatif à l'utilisation d'un cadre structurationniste. D'abord, la théorie de la structuration est complexe, impliquant des concepts et des propositions générales qui fonctionnent à un degré élevé d'abstraction. Ensuite, la théorie de la structuration est difficilement combinée à une méthode spécifique de recherches, …