Design/methodology/approach – This paper proposes reinvigorating research around Bucher and
Strauss’ (1961) conceptualization of professions as “segments in movement”. At the same time as
advocating a better investigation of the small practitioner segment itself, it suggests to take the latter
as an example to further explore the vision of professions as segments “more or less delicately held
together”. To this end, there is a potential for cross-fertilization between Bucher and Strauss’ research
programme and a range of other theoretical frameworks.