Track description

Social media have long since become an integral part of the digital (working) life of millions of users. Platforms are based on the concept of user-generated content, and their success depends on the active participation and involvement of their members. At the same time, they enable the virtual exchange of information and knowledge within virtual teams and groups or even reach a global audience. Despite the visualized character of social media, the role and long-term consequences of this phenomenon for the digital transformation on an individual, organizational and social level need to be better understood.

On the one hand, proponents argue that social media contribute to the formation of social capital, lead to increased networking or facilitate social support and collective action. On the other hand, critics express strong concerns about the risks of social media. The sheer volume and sensitivity of the information that users disclose gives rise to a reinterpretation of privacy. In addition, the influence of social media on the mental health of users is being investigated, with empirical evidence pointing to undesirable developments such as addiction, depression and mood disorders. In companies, the multi-vocality enabled by social media can lead to tensions regarding organizational coherence. Finally, phenomena such as fake news and hate speech have recently emerged as dangerous developments that pose significant challenges for providers and users.

This track seeks contributions that address the role that social media play in the transformation of the networked society and businesses in general. In particular, we encourage research that goes beyond established IS theories, draws on multiple reference disciplines, and applies new fascinating perspectives to document and understand the transformative impact of social media and the mobile use of devices associated with them.