The Close Nature in Communities of Practice

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the aspect of closeness in communities of practice. Both the positive and negative of the close nature will be explored. From the inception of the concept of community of practice, most articles or researches have been written with a one-sided point of view either applauding its virtues or denouncing its shortcomings. This paper will provide a bilateral perspective of communities of practice that considers both the positive and negative aspects of the concept of closeness, and discuss the importance of having this bilateral perspective. This paper will also explore the role of routine activities, as they are an integral part of any communities of practice, especially in a business environment. A close examination of routine activities in their formation and evolution will contribute to the bilateral perspective of the closeness of communities of practice. Moreover, the paper will identify signs and events when the routine activities should be adjusted.