The structurational model of technology: The case of dow chemical's RFID tracking system for hazardous materials

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Angeles, Rebecca^{; *}

Affiliations: University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, Canada

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding author: Prof. Rebecca Angeles, Faculty of Business Administration, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, Canada. E-mails: [email protected]; [email protected]

Abstract: In seeking the environmental sustainability in its outbound logistics operations, Dow Chemicals Company deployed an radio frequency identification (RFID) system to track shipments of its hazardous chemical products. This qualitative case study uses content analysis and the application of Orlikowski's theoretical framework called structurational model of technology based on Giddens' theory of structuration. Applying this theoretical framework results in a better understanding of how information technology (IT) interacts with organizational forces and vice versa.

Keywords: Radio frequency identification, environmental sustainability, structurational model of technology, supply chain management

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-130797

Journal: Human Systems Management, vol. 32, no. 4, pp. 267-282, 2013