Reconciling Different Institutional Logics: Institutional Work in Translating Sustainable PSS

Abstract

Businesses increasingly adopt product-service systems (PSS) to reconcile profit with environmental and social responsibility, yet face significant challenges due to differing institutional logics. This study investigates how these logics shape PSS adoption and the role of institutional work in navigating and translating PSS across contexts. Through a qualitative case study, we identify three institutional logics: commercial, state, and sustainability. These logics are shaped by institutional work in their local context by (1) strategically creating sustainability, (2) maintaining coupling practices, and (3) addressing the disruption trade-off. The present study links institutional logics and work within the context of sustainable PSS adoption.