Field relationships and data collecting: dilemmas encountered in a construction organization

Abstract

Purpose

This paper is an autoethnographic account of field dilemmas encountered while undertaking research in a construction organization. The purpose of this paper is to provide a reflexive account for those who undertake organizational field studies and focusses on the issue of field relationships and data collection.

Design/methodology/approach

Vignettes are used providing vivid accounts of field interactions between author, informants and research team members, followed by a reflection on the consequences of these. Field notes and reflective journaling were used in the construction of the vignettes.

Findings

Data collection in organizations where informants have limited time for researchers involves building relationships that need much attention, compromise and addressing of dilemmas which arise. This autoethnography highlights this and reflects on lessons learnt of how to manage dilemmas in field relationships that require attention when they hinder data collection and prove detrimental to the research project’s progress.

Practical implications

This study informs those undertaking research in commercial organizations about the importance of managing relationships and solving potential field dilemmas.

Originality/value

This autoethnography adds to the discussion about how researchers negotiate complex relationships and the dilemmas that constrain data collection. The value of being reflective of dilemmas lies in understanding that challenging organizational field studies involves careful tending to informants’ and research stakeholders’ needs whilst remaining focused on one’s own research goals.

Citation

Nycyk, M. (2018), "Field relationships and data collecting: dilemmas encountered in a construction organization", Journal of Organizational Ethnography, Vol. 7 No. 3, pp. 320-329. https://doi.org/10.1108/JOE-10-2017-0050