Working with e-projects: contributions and limitations of a methodology based on the actor-network theory

Partie d'ouvrage - Managing IT-based innovation projects is usually challenging: achieving significant results and generating a positive return on investments require that the design and the implementation of these e-projects are well analyzed, prepared, and carried out. It is notably important to favor a global approach that not only takes into account the technological aspects but also considers the strategic, organizational, and human dimensions of these IT-based innovation projects. Such transversal approach requires from the project leaders and the consultants called to support the implementation process to be particularly vigilant in their project management and change management initiatives.
The actor-network theory (Callon, 1986 ; Latour, 1987 ; Akrich, Callon et Latour, 1988 ; Callon, 1991) offers some interesting insights in that purpose. In trying to integrate contextual factors as well as the multiples stakeholders’ expectations, needs, and interests, this theory aims at mobilizing the actors around a common and shared project and at anticipating the tensions that may occur through the innovation project implementation process. The transformation and the utilization of this theory into a dedicated project management approach seem to offer several advantages. However, such approach also has pitfalls: its concrete and effective use as well as its latent philosophy may sometimes lead to some difficulties and constraints.
This is the goal of this book chapter: we question the advantages, disadvantages, added values, and limits of the concrete use of the actor-network theory to manage IT-based innovation projects and to implement dedicated change management actions. Based on support missions we carried out in several contexts, this book chapter aims at giving a critical and objective appreciation of the transformation of the actor-network theory into a project management philosophy, that may be useful for projects leaders and consultants eager to consider alternative ways for their activities.