This article focuses on the understanding of the processes of transformation of non-market collective reference points. In order to do this, we will employ the concept of institutional dynamics, the definition of which will be preceded by a distinction between the concepts of institution and organization. We will seek to validate this definition by the case-study of the "aeronautical branch" of Aerospatiale which, over the last thirty years, has undergone a great evolution in the utilisation of non-market collective reference points in its subcontracting relationships. These changes are a result, at least partly, of institutional dynamics.