On performing boundaries – a microprocessual view of creating boundary space

To date, the literature has scarcely addressed the intricacies surrounding the creation of boundary spaces – novel organisational models that operate at the intersection of overlapping spheres or sectoral domains – and the microinteraction dynamics involved in initiating such processes. To address this shortcoming, we conducted a single case study of a multistakeholder initiative that engages in creating a boundary space. We adopt a microprocessual view and take a closer look at the focal individuals' boundary work, interactions, sayings and doings, and the emotions triggered by the process. The findings offer insights into the tensions underlying the creation of boundary spaces and individuals’ performance of competitive, collaborative and configurational boundary work to resolve emerging tensions. Through our methodological choice of narrative analysis and ethnodrama, we show how the different embedded voices and meaningful silences in the creation process instantiate temporary and repetitive turns of boundary work, suspension and delay. We interpret these turns as both the result of the tensions and an explanation for why the tensions are not resolved.