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Automation as Management of Paradoxical Tensions: The Role of Industrial Engineering

In: Organizing for the Digital World

Author

Listed:
  • Francesco Virili

    (University of Sassari)

  • Cristiano Ghiringhelli

    (University of Milano-Bicocca)

Abstract

In this paper, we explored the introduction of an automated parcel sorting system in a major company in the logistic and parcel delivery industry. Adopting a Grounded Theory approach, we carried out a study that highlighted profound and unexpected organizational implications and management challenges connected to the introduction of the new technology. Our analysis revealed the key role of the Industrial Engineering function as a change agent in devising and managing the introduction of the automated system. In particular, Industrial Engineering actually managed the organizational change by determining the right balance between several opposite dimensions (manual vs. automated; planned vs. emergent; local vs. global). Handling these tensions with a holistic approach may constitute a crucial factor for the change program effectiveness. Contrasting our findings with extant literature, we found resonance with latest works on ambidexterity, interpreted as a firm’s ability to manage tensions. The resulting outcome is a substantive grounded theory of ambidexterity in an automation enhancement program.

Suggested Citation

  • Francesco Virili & Cristiano Ghiringhelli, 2019. "Automation as Management of Paradoxical Tensions: The Role of Industrial Engineering," Lecture Notes in Information Systems and Organization, in: Federico Cabitza & Carlo Batini & Massimo Magni (ed.), Organizing for the Digital World, pages 7-21, Springer.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:lnichp:978-3-319-90503-7_2
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-90503-7_2
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    Cited by:

    1. Guendalina Anzolin, 2021. "Automation and its Employment Effects: A Literature Review of Automotive and Garment Sectors," JRC Working Papers on Labour, Education and Technology 2021-16, Joint Research Centre.
    2. Francesco Virili & Cristiano Ghiringhelli, 2021. "Uncertainty and Emerging Tensions in Organizational Change: A Grounded Theory Study on the Orchestrating Role of the Change Leader," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(9), pages 1-22, April.

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