The role of sociomaterial assemblage on entrepreneurship in coworking-spaces

Abstract

Purpose

Coworking-spaces are considered as a new formula to facilitate autonomy, creativity, self-efficacy, work satisfaction and innovation, yet they also might overburden their users who in that course intend to limit social interaction and collaboration in the workspace. Thus, the question is how coworking-spaces shape entrepreneurial ventures.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used an inductive research methodology based on data from three different data sources, including observations, archives and interviews from managers and entrepreneurs.

Findings

The findings suggest that the materiality in the form of spatial architectures (working, socialization and support structures) shared facilities and infrastructures (utilities, luxuries and specialties), and integrated digital technologies (applications and platforms) influence the flow of communication, internal and external linkages, as well as functional uniformity and distinctiveness. However, there exists an inherent dualism in sociomaterial assemblage in coworking-spaces, which can lead to instrumental and detrimental outcomes for entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

This study explains the role of sociomaterial assemblage on the working of entrepreneurs in shared workspaces.

Citation

Aslam, M.M., Bouncken, R. and Görmar, L. (2021), "The role of sociomaterial assemblage on entrepreneurship in coworking-spaces", International Journal of Entrepreneurial Behavior & Research, Vol. 27 No. 8, pp. 2028-2049. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJEBR-07-2021-0564