Information Society and the Transformation of Organizations in Finland

Abstract

In this article, the authors analyze and evaluate the nature of organizational change in Finland. This is against the backdrop of social theories that emphasize the transformation of work based on new technology and increasing knowledge intensity. Our empirical data are drawn from three case studies: Metso Automation, the global market leader in paper and pulp machine automation; Telenor, which produces and sells internet-based business catalogs; and the city of Ylöjärvi, which is responsible for social services. Our study shows that there are large differences between organizational types in terms of team formation, pay systems, recruitment, and forms of control. We argue that organizational differences reflect more general differences between traditional and proactive, flexible workplaces that coexist in the emerging information based society.