The Dynamics of Fit and the Fit of Dynamics: Aligning IT in a Dynamic Organization

Models of the fit of IT systems to their organization are predominantly static contingency models. A rational, top-down dynamic is assumed: first from strategy to structure, then to IT, management processes mid work roles and skills. Recent research has presented "deviant" pathways to fit as a challenge to this rational view of dynamics. This paper extends our understanding of dynamics by exposing the hidden assumption that only a single change process, or Dynamic, is undertaken at one time. A case is used to illustrate multiple, concurrent Dynamics. Analysis reveals that concurrent Dynamics may have incompatible fit configurations and also that they may have competitive paths to fit as a result of temporal and interaction effects. An extended account of the dynamics of fit is summarized and areas for future theoretical development outlined.