"We kind of have to do our job alongside the digitalization" - on working with continuously changing tools

Abstract

Most public organizations are engaged in digtialization to achieve efficiency and innovation. Today, most software is developed, implemented and continuously improved following an agile software development methodology. In this exploratory paper we highlight an understudied aspect of digitalization, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding of how it affects the day-to-day work in the organization. By examining the experiences of advisors in a public welfare agency, the paper sheds light on the challenges and complexities arising from digitalization on work in practice. The findings reveal a discrepancy between the idealized view of digitalization and the practical realities faced by workers, leading to fragmented work conditions and continuously changing tools. This paper seeks to contribute to a nuanced understanding of the impact of digitalization on work practices.