An Essay on Technical Change: Its Dimensions and Social and Strategic Context

Abstract

A general framework of salient variables is put forward in this paper to be used in the analysis and explanation of the organizational phenomena around technical change, particularly the introduction of 'new technology'. Such variables are grouped into output, workflow, organization structure, skills and knowledge, and societal and business context factors. Their interrelationships are discussed on the basis of the organization research tradition and more recent findings. Hypotheses are derived which may be used to explain further findings, establish a better link between organizational theory and research on recent technical change, and benefit from synergy between organization, industrial sociology and business administration research.