From Groups to Communities: A Resource Mobilization Theory Perspective on the Emergence of Communities

Abstract Groups and communities have been key topics in the information systems (IS) research agenda. While are assumed to emerge at intersection of overlapping groups their practices, prior has mainly focused on dynamics evolution. This resulted limited empirical support regarding emergence communities. We address that lacuna by tracing through prism resource mobilization theory. In doing so, we make use a unique longitudinal dataset incorporate Topic Modelling, Bipartite Network Analysis, Community Detection. show new formed practices. addition, contribute IS literature demonstrating occurs due gives rise shared mindset. also reveal multiple resources incorporated into practices an emerging community. By combining large datasets innovative computational approaches, help theory practice move away from traditional "what" questions towards more insightful "how" ones. discuss theoretical practical implications our work delineate agenda for future topic.