Includes bibliographical references (pages 175-191) and index.

Introduction : the plan -- Laying the theoretical foundations -- Bricks and mortar : from organizing secrecy to secrecy as organizing -- Walls and corridors : organizing formal secrecy -- Open and closed doors : organizing informal and public secrecy -- The hidden architecture of organizational life -- Conclusion : finishing touches.

Secrecy is endemic within organizations, woven into the fabric of our lives at work. Yet, until now, we've had an all-too-limited understanding of this powerful organizational force. Secrecy is a part of work, and keeping secrets is a form of work. But also, secrecy creates a social order - a hidden architecture within our organizations. Drawing on previously overlooked texts, as well as well-known classics, Jana Costas and Christopher Grey identify three forms of secrecy: formal secrecy, as we see in the case of trade and state secrets based on law and regulation; informal secrecy based on networks and trust; and public or open secrecy, where what is known goes undiscussed. Animated with evocative examples from scholarship, current events, and works of fiction, this framework presents a bold reimagining of organizational life. -- from back cover.

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