Logic fluidity: How frontline professionals use institutional logics in their day-to-day work. Issue 2 (6th July 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: ten Dam, Eline M; Waardenburg, Maikel
• Is Part Of: Journal of professions and organization. Volume 7:Issue 2(2020)
• Page Start: 188
• Page End: 204
• Publication Date: 2020-07-06
• Subjects: Institutional logics -- narrative analysis -- vocabularies of practice -- frontline professionals -- micro processes -- healthcare; Professions -- Sociological aspects -- Periodicals; Organizational behavior -- Periodicals; Organizational sociology -- Periodicals; 331.71
• DOI: 10.1093/jpo/joaa012
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2051-8803

Abstract

Abstract: This article aims to gain a better understanding on micro processes of how frontline professionals use institutional logics in their day-to-day work. It contributes to the growing literature on the dynamics between institutions and the professional frontline. To further develop this field of study, a conceptual framework is presented that integrates institutional logics, vocabularies of practice, and narratives as central concepts. By adopting a composite narrative approach and identifying vocabularies of practice, the article interprets how frontline professionals make use of different logics to make sense of a new principle introduced in their professional field. Findings are based on a case study of professional patient collaboration in healthcare. The article composes five narratives that act as vehicles through which healthcare professionals use five logics: a medical professional logic, managerial logic, commercial logic, consultation logic, and patient-centeredness logic. It argues that frontline professionals use vocabularies of practice to assemble narratives that help them to navigate between a plurality of logics. It further shows that professionals move fluently from one narrative to another, critiquing the ideas of adherence to a dominant logic and conflict solving. The article finalizes with a discussion that advocates for a process studies perspective and a stronger focus on micro processes in research on professional performance in the context of institutional plurality.