the practicality of structuration theory

In the interview with Griffin, Poole says, "whenever we act, we’re using a structure to act; but our action is also creating the grounds for that structure’s existence. We’re producing it, using it." As Griffin then points out, this process can constrain group behavior. However, it also means that if group members alter their behaviors, they can make changes in how the group functions. Poole suggests that individual group members can change their communication strategies if they're not satisfied with how the group is working. In addition, group members can "undertake a major intervention" by explicitly talking about and taking steps to change how the group interacts.

When I taught at Ohio University, a member of the faculty was always assigned to be the process observer in department meetings. This person would keep the group on track, remind members of the meeting's purpose, and also note if the members weren't following the rules of discussion, such as critiquing ideas, not people. Having a process observer highlighted how the group structured itself and made it easier to make changes if needed.

~ Professor Cyborg