Boundary constructions as knowledge flows within and between work groups

Abstract

This paper proposes the concept of boundary constructions. An initial framework depicts subjects shaping objects across enactment phenomena just as, conversely, objects shape subjects’ interpretations and experiences. Results from an ethnographic case study within a community of practice highlight the blurring or dynamic entanglement that occurs between objects and subjects, thus going beyond conventional dualism. Such dynamics involve a constant flux or movement of co/reconstructions at the boundary (or social intersection) of intra-acting subjects. These boundary co/reconstructions are embedded within effective workplace dialogue, and are thus part of the process of knowing (or flow of emergent knowledge).

Keywords:

• boundary constructions
• constructivism
• intra-action
• knowledge flow

Additional information

Notes on contributors

W David Holford

About the Author

W. David Holford is Associate Professor of Management at the University of Quebec at Montreal (UQAM). His field of interest focuses on organizational sense-making, knowledge construction and the creation of risk within organizational work groups. He has authored and co-authored several articles on knowledge construction/sharing and risk creation in high-tech firms within the aeronautical, automotive and biopharmaceutical sectors. He also worked 20 years in the aerospace industry (Pratt and Whitney Canada), whereby he held several important engineering management responsibilities. He obtained his Ph.D. degree in Administration (Management) from HEC Montreal (L’École des Hautes Etudes Commerciales de Montréal, Université de Montréal, Canada).