Power in and between organizations: subjectification transforming purchaser-supplier relationships

Abstract

In this study, we examine the transformation of procurement practices of a municipality organization from the viewpoint of power as subjectification to understand how the subjectivities of both the municipality organization’s representatives as well as the contractor’s representatives as a supplier, are being constituted through a purchase and building process of a new school. Based on inductive analysis of a longitudinal in-depth single case study, we combine research on power in organizations with strategy as practice studies. As a result, we show how power can be productive and have positive and empowering outcomes when the organization has a motivation to do so, even if it is purposeful and influenced by balancing collaborative and competitive forces. In this, a notable role is played by the way in which subjectivities of the actors are being defined and maintained through continuous dialogue and participation, resulting in transformation in the identities of both the buyer and the supplier representatives.