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Understanding the (Latent) Functions of Documents in Organizations

Bibliographic Data

ID2246969
AuthorsAntonia Langhof (Leibniz University of Applied Sciences, corresponding author)
Year2018
Volume7
Issue1
Pages59-73
Publication date2018-04-03
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Organizational Ethnography (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2046-6749 • E-ISSN: 2046-6757
PublisherEmerald (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1108/joe-06-2017-0029
OpenAlexW2789048565
LanguageEN
Citations received2
References cited27

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to suggest the usage of an approach based on sociological systems theory for exploring the (latent) functions of documents in organizations. The focus lies on the reconstruction of organizational knowledge practices required for the competent production and use of documents.Design/methodology/approachThe argument is developed through a critical and integrating review of relevant literature as well as through the analysis of empirical data drawn from participant observation and ethnographic conversations in a multi-organizational, multi-site, and multi-event setting.FindingsThe essence of the paper is that a systems theoretical approach in the analysis of the production and use of documents in organizations yields new and startling insights into their (latent) functions for organizations compared to what document analysis and institutional ethnography can achieve.Originality/valueThe paper focuses on the contexts, situations, and the organizational knowledge practices necessary for the competent use of documents in organizations not on the document itself. Hence, it offers a more comprehensive understanding of the (latent) functions of documents for organizations compared to mere document analysis

Argument (complex analysis · Epistemology · Ethnography · Focus (optics · Knowledge management · Originality · Participant observation · Qualitative research · Social science · Sociology · Value (mathematics · Computer Science · Evaluation and Performance Assessment · Information Systems Theories and Implementation · Management and Organizational Studies

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