Network Performance and Coordination

Abstract

This article contributes a strategic coordination framework for network performance that is derived from reviewing and integrating disparate research findings about effectiveness in public networks. The focus on network performance extends the concept of a strategic—bureaucratic, entrepreneurial, community—orientations framework for network coordination put forth by Herranz (2008b) and the similar concept of modes of network governance that is suggested by Gray, Jenkins, and Leeuw (2003) and Gray (1998). A critical review of the literature on public network performance provides a way to conceptualize how different strategic orientations in network coordination may be related to different network objectives. This article proposes hypotheses to guide further research and discusses the implications of the framework as a guide for public managers tasked with coordinating networks to achieve different performance outcomes.

Keywords:

• collaboration
• management
• networks
• performance
• strategy