Year
2023
Authors
METIU Anca, MUKERJEE Jinia
Abstract
Based on an ethnography of a high-tech firm, we show how deep play — the voluntary immersion in an enjoyable activity unrelated to work but symbolically connected to employees’ fundamental concerns — is integrated in the creative work process. Specifically, we show how episodes of work engagement alternate with episodes of deep play, how this dynamic sustains work engagement and results in creative problem solving; and how this dynamic held even during crises. We identify three mechanisms enabling the integration of deep play and work engagement: the similarities between these flow states, the visibility of both engaged work and deep play, and employees’ constant calculations about work. We also identify the contextual factors fostering both deep play (particularly the freedom to play) and work engagement (particularly work autonomy). Finally, we show how non-immersive diversionary play is integrated with mindless work – thereby offering a richer, more complete understanding of the role of various types of play in the creative process. Our work advances the understanding of micro-processes of creative work, enriches our understanding of flow, extends the theory of play, and deepens our understanding of the growing array of organizations embracing various forms of play.
METIU, A. et MUKERJEE, J. (2023). Deep Play, Work Engagement, and Creative Problem Solving in a High-tech Organization. Dans: Academy of Management Annual Meeting Proceedings. Academy of Management.