What happened to the work I was doing? Sociomateriality and cognitive tensions in technology work

Abstract

In recent times, there is growing recognition that the implications of technology are not a given; they result from how the social and technical interact to redefine work-related expectations. The sociomateriality lens highlights the inseparable and relational aspects of the social and technological systems. We draw upon sociomateriality to highlight cognitive tensions that technology work generates through two case studies. Based on these insights, we provide suggestions to practitioners to mindfully examine their digital transformation efforts and identify plans to mitigate the tensions.