Introduction: Putting Institutional Theory to Work During Times of Crises

This introductory paper examines the gap between institutional theory and practical relevance, highlighting opportunities to revitalize administrative science during an era of grand challenges and crises. We argue that while institutional theory has developed rigorous theoretical contributions, it has often fallen short of Thompson’s (1956) original vision of administrative science as an applied field comparable to engineering or medicine. Today’s complex challenges – climate change, social inequality, organizational wrongdoing – make institutional theorists’ insights increasingly vital for practitioners navigating uncertainty. Drawing on Van de Ven’s engaged scholarship framework, we propose a balanced approach that addresses both theoretical rigor and practical application by explicitly considering three fundamental questions: Who needs our insights? What specific actions should be taken? When are these actions most relevant? The nine papers in this volume exemplify this approach, offering practical implications for diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, organizational leaders, social entrepreneurs, and community organizers. By systematically translating institutional theory into actionable knowledge for specific contexts, this volume demonstrates how institutional theorists can fulfill their role as public intellectuals contributing to contemporary organizational and societal challenges. Our goal is not to simplify complex theoretical ideas but to transform them into accessible knowledge that resonates with practitioners’ immediate needs while maintaining theoretical integrity.