A Study on Institutional Isomorphism Experience in Social Enterprise: Focused on the Cases of Chungbuk Self-Sufficient Enterprises

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze institutional isomorphism experiences of social enterprises which were transformed from self-sufficient enterprise. This study conducted in-depth interview with 8 CEO’s of social enterprises which were transformed from self-sufficient enterprise in Chungbuk province. Dimaggio & Powell(1983) described three isomorphic types-coercive, mimetic, & normative- & this study used these for analyzing social enterprises. The findings of the study summarized as follows. First, social enterprises which experienced coercive isomorphism were related to getting legitimacy, having government support, and accepting suggestions for local self-sufficient centers. Second, social enterprises which experienced mimetic isomorphism were related to follow social atmosphere. Third, social enterprises which experienced normative isomorphism were related to get consultant’s advice. These three types of isomorphism were experienced complexly in one enterprise. Additionally, these social enterprises tend to try to accomplish social purpose which is social enterprise’s intrinsic goal. Finally, we discussed suggestions and implications of this study.