Technology and Craft: Examining the Involvement of Technological Tools in Artisanal Work

Craft work has been studied in organization studies to a considerable extent. Yet, the literature on the role and impact of technology in craft work today is still scarce. Apart from the generic discussion of the dichotomy between authenticity of craft work vs. automated mass production, we still have limited knowledge about what types of technologies have been used, how they have evolved throughout the time and which part(s) of the production process involve(s) technology and innovation in artisanal work. In this presentation, we provide an overview of the usage of technology in diverse craft work cases in Italy and discuss how different craft SMEs try to balance authenticity and innovation in their appropriation of new technologies. We also examine where the technology sets the stage for authenticity and where it serves as a threat.