Discovering collaborators online: Assembling interdisciplinary teams online at an Argentinian University

Abstract

This study explores how and why scholars find collaborators using team formation systems. Based on theories of teams and human and social capital, we describe how scholars' traits and social networks influence their team formation processes. We conducted a field study in Argentina in which 43 scholars used an online platform and assembled into eight interdisciplinary teams. Our results show that scholars initially tended to invite prior contacts, but, eventually, they assembled cohesive interdisciplinary teams with members they did not know before. We conclude by reflecting on how team formation platforms can enable individuals to expand their social capital.