Social Network Conditions for Maintaining Two Competing Institutional Logics

This paper examines the two competing institutional logics that have coexisted in the animated film industry since the advent of 3D (CGI) animation, specifically focusing on the period from 1995 to 2008. The traditional 2D logic is characterized by an “artisan style” which focuses on artistic quality and values traditional techniques (called “cel animation”) for creating animated films. The more recent 3D (Computer Generated Imagery based, or CGI) logic is most often representative of a high cost, high risk endeavor, and engages the audience with unprecedented levels of visually detailed and therefore more entertaining animated content. This paper argues that internal factors and especially network conditions have helped to maintain two institutional logics in the field of animation. Further, it argues that social network conditions such as small-world characteristics, number of interlocks, and the relative power of incumbent actors in the network affect the maintenance of competing logics. The impact of exploration, exploitation, and resistance to institutional change are also discussed.