Strategies for intergovernmental management:implementing programs in interorganizational networks

Abstract

Despite the increasing importance of inter-governmental issues, as well as the volume and quality of research that has been conducted on interorgani-zational relations, thus far relatively little explicit application of the latter to the former has occurred. Although much work remains to be done to develop the field of interorganizational relations, research already completed, especially investigations of policy implementation in interorganizational networks, demonstrates that substantial assistance can be provided to those who are involved with intergovern-mental management. Research-based strategies for intergovernmental management are discussed: influencing policy design; mobilizing, nurturing, and managing the interorganizational structure; and utilizing information on behalf of the common effort. Examples indicate how such strategies might be pursued effectively.