Management Controls and the Gendering of the Workplace: The Case of eHealth Projects in Sweden

Abstract

The article provides knowledge about gender practices at the workplace, and the inequalities between sexes, when the involvement of women increases in three IT based implementation projects (eHealth services for Swedish citizens). Interview data about participants’ activities and roles in relation to management controls (direct, indirect, and internalized controls) were interpreted through content analysis. Findings illustrate unclear and implicit management controls. Women project members generally contributed with internal healthcare expertise. Despite a big number of participating women, the feminine identity, gendered practices and power relations were reproduced. To reduce gender inequalities, management controls need to support the agency of women.