Sensemaking processes and stakeholders' reactions to IT implementation

This research investigates how sensemaking activities of stakeholders influence and shape their reactions to change during IT implementation. It seeks to derive insights into the role and influence of stakeholders’ relationships and interactions on developed responses and reactions. The findings of this research suggest that stakeholders’ sensemaking processes are consonant or dissonant, involving and leading to complex and dynamic feelings, attitudes and behaviours towards change from positive and supportive to negative and resistive. This research also offers practical suggestions for preventing or mitigating dysfunctional impacts of resistance more effectively and promoting stakeholders’ engagement and commitment to change.