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From Lock-In to Transformation: A Path-Centric Theory of Emerging Technology and Organizing

Author

Listed:
  • Brian T. Pentland

    (Broad College of Business, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824)

  • Youngjin Yoo

    (Department of Design & Innovation, Weatherhead School of Management, Case Western University, Cleveland, Ohio 44106)

  • Jan Recker

    (Hamburg Business School, University of Hamburg, 20148 Hamburg, Germany)

  • Inkyu Kim

    (Broad College of Business, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan 48824)

Abstract

We offer a path-centric theory of emerging technology and organizing that addresses a basic question. When does emerging technology lead to transformative change? A path-centric perspective on technology focuses on the patterns of actions afforded by technology in use. We identify performing and patterning as self-reinforcing mechanisms that shape patterns of action in the domain of emerging technology and organizing. We use a dynamic simulation to show that performing and patterning can lead to a wide range of trajectories, from lock-in to transformation, depending on how emerging technology in use influences the pattern of action. When emerging technologies afford new actions that can be flexibly recombined to generate new paths, decisive transformative effects are more likely. By themselves, new affordances are not likely to generate transformation. We illustrate this theory with examples from the practice of pharmaceutical drug discovery. The path-centric perspective offers a new way to think about generativity and the role of affordances in organizing.

Suggested Citation

  • Brian T. Pentland & Youngjin Yoo & Jan Recker & Inkyu Kim, 2022. "From Lock-In to Transformation: A Path-Centric Theory of Emerging Technology and Organizing," Organization Science, INFORMS, vol. 33(1), pages 194-211, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:inm:ororsc:v:33:y:2022:i:1:p:194-211
    DOI: 10.1287/orsc.2021.1543
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