Discovering dynamic Virtual Team determinants through an interpretivist philosophical framework

Discovering dynamic Virtual Team determinants through an interpretivist philosophical framework

Until recently, most research has not been able to provide a consolidated view of all determinants influencing of Virtual Teams (VTs). With the increase in VT uptake and usage, a comprehensive approach is required to develop an understanding of all the possible determinants related to VTs. A qualitative interpretivist approach is proposed to allow for a more in-depth examination of the socially constructed subjective reality of participants. An examination of these participants realties could provide a systematic view of all possible determinants that are relevant to VTs. Participants will be employees in VTs and will participate in semi-structured interviews across three phases throughout their membership in the team. Systematic analysis is proposed to take place as data is collected, with interviews conducted when the participant joins the team, mid-way through their team membership, and at the end of the team’s lifespan or the study. To ensure adequate data is captured, 35 participants will be selected through purposive sampling. All interviews will be recorded via an online platform and stored securely to ensure the integrity of the study. This will also ensure that coding and categorisation activities can occur systematically. Ethical considerations will need to be accounted for; however, participants will be adults with mitigations in place to reduce overall research risk. The semi-structured interviews will focus on the capturing determinants at all stages of being in a VT and will not be discussing any sensitive matters. Findings from this research could provide new avenues for determinant analysis of VTs in the literature. The research output can also be used to assist practitioners to implement policies that will improve VT performance.