Routines as a Source of Change in Organizational Schemata: The Role of Trial-and-Error Learning

Abstract

Organizational routines are ubiquitous, yet their contribution to organizing has been underappreciated. Our longitudinal, inductive study traces the relationship between organizational routines and organizational schemata in a new research institution, Learning Lab Denmark. We show how trial-and-error learning can connect routines and schemata through a microfoundation of observable action. Our analysis (1) identifies two processes of trial-and-error learning and (2) strengthens theory about the coevolution of interpretive schemata and routines. By recognizing the complex relationship between routines and schemata and the role that trial-and-error learning processes play in this relationship, organizations can gain a previously overlooked tool for managing change.