Can networks make an organization?

Abstract

Based on earlier work in Scandinavia, systems development is seen as both reflecting and shaping organizations. An ongoing action-research project at a large municipal hospital in Norway is taken as an example. This is a cooperative project in which nursing supervisors and researchers participate in shaping a learning process and designing a computer system. Some inherent contradictions, conflicts and challenges are indicated. Strengthening cooperation among themselves was the main reason for the nurses to embark on the project. It may be assumed that neither good intentions, nor the most advanced technology for cooperative work will necessarily result in a product which enhances cooperation and mutual support.