STANDARDIZATION IN ACTION

This paper discusses the dynamics of implementing and deploying a standardization process based on an IT infrastructure. The analysis is based on a case study conducted in a pharmaceutical R&D organisation. The standardization infrastructure in use, constituted by a computerized system and the surrounding organisational procedures, seems to be different from the one expected as a result of the ex-ante design of the infrastructure. The paper discusses the role played by local characteristics, contingences, and practices in the definition of the nature and effects of the standardisation protocol implemented to improve the control over data collection and analysis. The paper concludes that the output of the process of standardisation and thus the following control over it should be discussed as the result of a dynamic interplay determined by the interaction between technology and its users rather than the consequence of a planned an well defined design project