3. Research methods
An exploratory case study was conducted to explore sensemaking, sensegiving and accounting in companies going public (Scapens, 1990). Four firms entering the Swedish stock exchange were investigated. They were selected to represent different industries. The first enterprise was a credit management service provider. Another company was an international manufacturer offering contract electronic services from design to after-sales. The third manufactured and sold kitchens in various markets, and the fourth offered a wide range of high-quality beauty products.