One day as I was having a meeting my PhD supervisor discussing progress with my thesis. She asked…why are you using Actor-Network Theory? I said it was suitable… because… and as I was trying to respond, I knew my answer was pretty muddled… She knew it too, and she knew what I had to do. I also figured out what I had to do. So more research…and what I found, I liked. Now…to some ANT can be a mind bending theory. I don’t claim to be an expert about it, but I know it is being used by many disciplines, including the one that is a focus of my studies: Informations Systems.
From my reading and learning about ANT, two things resonated with me:
- ANT was good for looking at how human and non-human relationships change as a result of implementing socio-technical systems… yes…human and non-human relationships… perfect for what I am look ing at…
- But what was really exciting to me was how power shifted between networks. Be mindful in ANT, networks are not “technical” networks. They comprise of human and non-human actors…
So, for example, if I am implementing a new information system, I have to consider the humans, and non-human actors. I also need to be mindful how power shifts. If power does not shift, or smoothly from “Team A” to “Team B” then eventually to “Customer A”, will the success of the project be impacted? Who is on “Team A” and Team B”? Why should power shift between “Team A” and Team B”?
ANT is helping me recognise and tease out these issues. I think it will reduce project risk. I like reducing risk, especially when public funds are being used.
I can’t explain it as well as this video. So, if you want to know some basic concepts about Actor-Network Theory (ANT)? Do you have a few minutes? This video provides a wonderful explanation.
About my thesis… second draft is almost done! It is much better then the first draft. It is 0n about 67,000 words but will increase by perhaps 7,000 words by the time the second draft is done.
Best wishes,
Arthur
Being Arthur 