Abstract
ABSTRACT Standardization, often seen as a means to increase power through uniform working methods, has both benefits and drawbacks. Scholars and practitioners highlight the risk of a ‘standard(ization) trap’, where initial benefits lead to unforeseen costs. This study reviews literature and practices in standardization, identifying confusion between two power sources: substance power, concerning WHETHER to standardize, and decision-making power, dealing with WHO standardizes. It introduces a matrix differentiating these sources, offering insights into standardization methods. This matrix proposes four archetypes of standardization: centralized standardization, centralized de-standardization, decentralized standardization, and decentralized de-standardization. These archetypes offer theoretical and practical insights for addressing standardization challenges.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
