Emergent identity formation and the co-operative: theory building in relation to alternative organizational forms

Abstract

and organizational theory, we use co-operatives to explore social expectations and institutional arrangements around form at the societal, population, and organizational levels using a population ecology framework. We develop a research agenda based on propositions that address specific features of identity formation in less typical forms of organization, including tensions with normative business expectations, engagement with identity audiences, embeddedness in networks and alliances, structural factors influencing identity, and identity ambiguity.3

Organizational Identity Formation in Alternative Organizations: A Study of Three Benefit Corporations

“…Although extant research shows the importance of network embeddedness and alliances (e.g., Nelson et al, 2016), the BC founders and top managers express ambivalent feelings toward the B Corp movement. On one hand, all three companies voluntarily choose to go through the certification process by B Lab in addition to achieving their legal status as BCs under state laws.…”

“…As Nelson et al (2016) noted, “though not legally prescribed, the profit-generating return to shareholders model of business is normative. It is held to be the way things are and should be” (p. 291).…”

Developing a conceptual framework for the co-operative and mutual enterprise business model

“…It should be focused on both economic and social objectives (MacPherson, 2012), and any loss of focus on the purpose can place the CME at risk of degeneration and demutualisation (Battilani & Schröter, 2012). It is important to identify the CME's purpose during its establishment as it assists with keeping the members engaged (Shah, 1996), and in fostering shared identity and values (Nelson et al, 2016). The purpose can be enshrined in the organisation's constitution, along with the seven co-operative principles, to assist with decision making and ensure that the enterprise does not lose sight of its original raison d'être.…”

Resisting Colonization: Worker Cooperatives’ Conceptualization and Behaviour in a Habermasian Perspective

“…Cooperative firms are often portrayed as ‘alternative’ organizations (Cheney et al, 2014; Nelson et al, 2016; Wright, 2010). Their ownership structure, their democratic governance processes and the fact that they pursue both social and economic objectives distinguish them from the traditional, hierarchical model, where profit maximization for distribution to shareholders is the priority.…”