The virtual organisation: a new organisational form?

  • Authors:

  • Helen Walker

  • Affiliations:

  • Centre for Research in Strategic Purchasing and Supply, School of Management, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK

  • Venue:
  • International Journal of Networking and Virtual Organisations
  • Year:
  • 2006

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Abstract

The virtual organisation is conceptualised by many researchers as a new organisational form. It represents a radical shift from the traditional organisation and makes new ways of organising possible. Such expectations are explored, and the meanings and interpretations of the virtual organisation for its designers and virtual workers are investigated in a project that seeks to develop a virtual (reality) organisation. The research involved longitudinal participant-observation with the virtual organisation design team and interviews with organisational members. Contrary to indications in the literature, this research found that the virtual organisation in this instance is predominantly conceived by designers and users as an extension of the existing organisation, rather than representing radical organisational change.