Scandinavian Journal of Management最新文献

Applying institutional theory to organizational identity (OI) work, this article analyzes how the OI of the Church of Norway was reformulated when it was disestablished as a state church. Building on social constructionist perspectives and their implications for agency, drawing on a case study, this article deepens the link between institutional work and OI research by promoting institutional work as an analytical tool to understand OI work. Deviating from current trends in OI research, which emphasize the discursive bottom-up work of organizational members, this work focuses on the pivotal role of regulative elements in a highly institutionalized organization and questions the division between a social actor and the social constructionist perspective of OI. It calls for more empirical research on OI work, which encompasses broader institutional aspects.

Unsustainability and the menace of poverty are the major challenges confronted by developing countries like Pakistan. This study intends to highlight the impact of microfinance interventions on women entrepreneurs in Pakistan and their potential to foster women's entrepreneurial ambition as a means of poverty alleviation. A quantitative research design has been used to collect data through a questionnaire from 400 women entrepreneurs who have benefited from the National Rural Support Program (NRSP)’s, (2019–2021) Microfinance and Enterprise Development Program in Pakistan. The study found that the concept of microfinance resources is gaining significance and its access is significantly impacting the entrepreneurial inclination and success of women entrepreneur’s vis a vis reduces poverty levels in low-income communities. The findings have significant implications for policymakers, microfinance institutions and women entrepreneurs in Pakistan, emphasizing the need for programs that target women entrepreneurs and provide them with microfinance resources and training to empower them to take charge of their businesses. Limited generalizability and self-reported data are the limitations to mention. Strategies like offering microfinance were found to be valuable tool in combating poverty and inequality from the women entrepreneurial initiatives perspective.

This paper explores power dynamics and symbolic power struggle in organizational transition in a Scandinavian telecommunications company. Our ethnographic study examines middle-managers’ efforts filling their allotted role as leaders of neoliberal transformation in a competition of force with their subordinates and the trade union. We develop a Bourdieu-inspired conceptualization of managerial pedagogy as a mode of control and reality definition to advance knowledge on how we can understand subtle uses of power and managers’ struggles gaining control, while simultaneously foregrounding how power is multidirectional when subordinates successfully attain and use power. Our results highlight neglected aspects of managerial power use and power deficits as we show how power dynamics in organizational change are anchored in institutions of the field.

Artificial intelligence (AI) will profoundly impact management studies. This has become apparent, especially post the ChatGPT hype. This influence expands beyond the domain of management itself, extending into the research process. What shape will this take? This essay aims to give an initial assessment. Building upon Savage's dichotomy of small worlds and the grand world, this essay evaluates which scientific insights necessitate genuine creativity, thereby surpassing the current capabilities of AI, and which do not demand such ingenuity. To accomplish this, an examination of prevalent research formats—quantitative and qualitative empirical research, literature reviews, and conceptual research—will be conducted. The findings suggest that as AI matures, it is expected to assume a substantial part of prior research. This prospective transformation holds the potential to elevate knowledge creation by enabling a deeper exploration of theory development and application—areas where human involvement remains indispensable. With significant changes in research structures likely, the challenge ahead is managing this transformation constructively.

Previous studies have shown role stress to be an important antecedent of workplace bullying. The present study investigated when and how a long-term effect of role ambiguity on exposure to bullying may be present. Based on the work environment hypothesis, we hypothesized that (a) there is a long-term effect of role ambiguity on exposure of bullying, (b) that this relationship is mediated by hostile work climate, and (c) moderated by supportive leadership. Using a three-wave design, with a time lag of 41–45 months, we showed support for all three hypotheses. The study underscores the importance of clear work-related roles as well as the importance of supportive leadership to prevent the onset of bullying following role stress and hostile climates.

By building upon instrumental stakeholder theory, we aim to increase academic understanding of how changes in stakeholder relations affect acquisition performance outcomes in a private equity (PE) family firm buyout, during the holding period. With our sample of 134 PE-backed family firm buyouts, we find evidence to suggest that reducing social engagement during the holding period decreases medium-term performance, whereas the termination of existing supplier relationships affects this positively. Moreover, our data suggests that effects concerning the reduction of social engagement and employee downsizing are negatively moderated by increased levels of family ownership prior to the PE deal.

What are the determinants of Unicorns and Gazelles’ early success? This review article examines the factors that contribute to the success of Unicorns and Gazelles in their early life stage. Indeed, despite their unique characteristics and significant impact on the global economy, Unicorns and Gazelles have yet to be thoroughly examined in terms of their (exceptional) survival factors. To bridge this literature gap, we systematically reviewed 66 articles, comparing Unicorns' and Gazelles' survival determinants and proposing a conceptual framework for their life cycle. Attracted by the exceptional characteristics of these new ventures, such as the fast scalability provided by their business models, early investors play a key role in helping them overcome initial challenges. However, this reliance on investors presents a double-edged sword, as withdrawing their support can lead to significant disruptions. This understanding provides valuable insights for entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers navigating the complexities of the start-up world, ultimately increasing the likelihood of venture success and achieving a champion status. By shedding light on these exceptional ventures, our study contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the factors driving the survival dynamics of Unicorns and Gazelles.