The sociomaterial lens within IS research holds that agency should not be considered as a property solely of humans, or of technology, but instead arises from an emergent interaction between the two. This, emergent, account of agency deepens our understanding of unfolding IS practice, but its largely cognitive orientation remains naïve towards affectively-sensed motivations that also form part of this interaction. By implication, a sociomaterial perspective lacking an affective dimension offers an incomplete conceptualisation of information systems. In response, an affectively-informed negative ontology encourages IS researchers to extend their focus beyond the visible, to encompass how actors’ receptiveness towards material objects (discourses, technologies) is shaped by deep, affectively-derived motivations of which they are not focally aware, but which nonetheless acquire agency in contributing to a sociomaterial outcome. A central argument, and illustrative empirical vignette, demonstrate how the concepts of sociomateriality, affect, and negative ontology combine to offer researchers an enhanced understanding of relational agency. A discussion follows, exploring some initial ontological, epistemological and methodological implications of an affectively-informed negative ontology for IS research.

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This study explores the influence of legal uncertainties on the process of innovating human resources (HR) practices in developing countries. Through a case study focused on introducing remote work within Kazakhstan’s Technical Gas Industry during a healthcare crisis, we examine the multifaceted challenges and opportunities that emerge when navigating a complex legal landscape. Our findings reveal that legal uncertainties, stemming from inadequacies in legislation and the tightness of norms, significantly impede the ability to adapt and modernize HR practices during crises. Furthermore, the criticality of the company’s position within the industry, combined with a low degree of legal enforcement, underscores the concept of ‘responsibilization’ among HR professionals. This phenomenon compels HR practitioners to assume greater responsibility and make strategic decisions that occasionally push the boundaries of existing laws and regulations. In this context, we propose a novel conceptualization of responsibilization, distinct from empowerment, as it involves embracing negative legal consequences associated with proactive decision-making during crises. This study contributes significantly to our understanding of how legal uncertainties influence the process of HR innovation in developing countries, highlighting the intricate interplay between regulatory frameworks, crisis management, and organizational transformation.
NAVAZHYLAVA Kseniya - EMLV |
- Recherche
- Gestion des Ressources Humaines, Transformation Digitale