Evolving communication patterns in response to an acquisition event

This study uses network data of worker behavior to analyze changes in worker communication patterns during the first three years post‐acquisition. The findings suggest that new communication routines develop slowly and are not entirely enduring even when a transformative event, such as an acquisition, occurs. Communication across firms initially increases as workers change their routines. However, over time this communication peaks and then falls as workers develop common ground. Communication across firms was greater when workers' tasks were interdependent. Overall, this study demonstrates that communication routines persist even after an organizationally transforming event. It illustrates the importance of both the formal and informal organization as well as the promise of using social network methods and communication log data to study social phenomena of strategic interest. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.