Relationship Between New Information Technologies and Flexible Organizational Forms

Abstract

This chapter offers a theoretical investigation of the relationships between new IT and the implementation of emerging organizational designs. It argues that IT innovations can be regarded both as cause and consequence of the emergence of more flexible and virtual organizational forms. First, the authors offer a review of relevant previous literature, dealing with new IT, flexible organizational models and the relationships between IT and modular organizational structures. Next, a conceptual model is introduced that clarifies the relationships between IT development, the implementation of flexible organizational designs and environmental dynamism. Finally, conclusions and implications for researchers and practicing managers are presented.