ABSTRACT
The perspective suggested in this chapter was developed within the framework of longitudinal research undertaken over four years, in interaction with COM One, a young French telecommunications company created in 1987 (de La Ville 1996). Both the historical development of the firm since its foundation and its main evolutions during the time of the study have been retrieved and reconstructed through a qualitative research process (Hindle 2004). In 2004, COM One remained a leading French company specializing in the design, manufacture, sales and marketing of telecom products. For 15 years, the company has been designing products for major PC manufacturers and telecom operators, as well as selling telecommunication devices to the growing market of mobile professionals. COM One has designed stylish, simple, user-friendly and intuitive range of products for major companies operating in the professional markets. Certified ISO9001, the company is headquartered in Bordeaux and employs 55 people, including 25 engineers.
