Navigating Strategic Networks (SNs): Unravelling the Dynamics of Governance and Management for Network Growth

This study aims to examine which configurations of governance and management dimensions facilitate the growth of Strategic Networks (SNs) composed of small firms. We interviewed 77 managers and members from 20 SNs to determine their governance and management structures. The data were classified according to six governance dimensions and four management dimensions. We then performed a qualitative comparative analysis to identify which configurations most effectively support network growth. The findings reveal that three specific configurations of governance and management are highly consistent and have been implemented by SNs with high growth rates. These configurations are called "Highly-Monitored SN," "Strategically-Oriented SN," and "Specific-Service SN." This research advances the theory by demonstrating that various configurations can achieve the same outcome and provide practical implications. It can help network managers define the governance configuration that better adapts to their context to support network growth, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of their strategic decisions.