A conceptual thesis on drivers of sustained participation and commitment in decentralized autonomous organizations

Abstract

Rapid technological advancements and constantly evolving demands in the environment, from both societal and organizational perspectives, are challenging the current understanding and assumptions about traditional organizational structures as well as the work arrangements and practices therein. One potential solution that may address the issues in the ever-changing environment is arguably the more decentralized forms of organizations, in which traditional hierarchy is usually replaced by informal authority and heightened autonomy of individual actors within an organization. While there are variations of decentralized forms of organizations, an investigation into such organizational forms as the so-called Decentralized Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) may provide research with the opportunities to develop a more sophisticated understanding of the current trend towards more decentralized forms of organizations. DAOs, a novel form of meta-organizations which has recently emerged following the dawn of blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies (e.g., Bitcoin and Ethereum), profit generally from a decentralized organizational structure and globally distributed networks of individual actors (i.e., DAO members), who collectively and voluntarily gather together to manage, improve, and govern the respective DAO. In such a community-driven organization as a DAO, active participation and firm commitment of the DAO members represent crucial aspects and deciding success factors. Thus, a profound understanding about DAO members’ participation and commitment may help mitigate the constant risk of dissolution of any particular DAO. The present paper is, therefore, aimed at providing insights into the potential drivers of DAO members’ participation and commitment, particularly from the DAO members’ perspective. Various potential drivers are conceptually derived from various fields of studies and research, and consequently aggregated into DAO context. By providing a conceptualized research model and methodology, the present paper is aspired to serve as a foundation that guides future research in investigating the emerging phenomenon of DAOs.by Wanit WiriyachaokitMasterarbeit Universität Innsbruck 202