The role of institutional work in the transformation of the IT function: A longitudinal case study in the healthcare sector

This study aims to provide a deeper understanding of how information technology (IT) functions transform over time in order to align themselves with organizational visions and motivations. We conducted a longitudinal case study in a large mental health institute where an attempt was made to transform the mission and profile of the IT function. To orient our case analysis, we combined a typology of IT function archetypes with key concepts from institutional theory. By focusing on key actors' motives, actions, and decisions, our theoretical propositions suggest, among others, that institutional work that reflects all the three pillars of rules, norms, and meaning are necessary in order to successfully create and maintain an envisioned IT function archetype. Implications of our findings for both theory and practice are discussed.