From Isomorphism to Institutional Work: The Advancement of Institutional Theory in Public Administration

Analysing the need for homogenisation of organisations and the incorporation of institutional theory in public administration is a relevant topic, given that it is a process that reflects the historical characteristics of an organisation built by the people who work there and the way in which it establishes relationships with its environment. The need to incorporate existing practices between organisations, which leads them to come closer together and converge, is a phenomenon known in the literature as isomorphism. This entry triggers a review of significant literature in the field, based on sound scientific principles, with the aim of contributing to the sharing of information for a better understanding of the structure and functioning of organisations against the backdrop of institutional isomorphism. In this way, it sought to convey the need to advance institutional theory in public administration based on isomorphism.