Engaging Partnerships: An Interorganizational Network-Based Typology

• In Event: B.E.S.T.: Networks and Social Media

Abstract

This paper offers a theoretical framework of organization- and community-levels of engagement using social networks concepts that point to relational activities that facilitate communication flows and influence. A focus on engagement expands interorganizational networks from a weak-strong tie continuum to one of engaged communicative processes. Interorganizational networks are a function of exchange of resources, information flows, and strategic partnerships, yet the relationship (network tie, in network parlance) is most often assessed in terms of its strength. For organizations, ties might be manifested through personal to more institutionalized arrangements. This paper argues that the nature of interorganizational ties is more complex and argues that ties vary in terms of degrees of engagement, with implications for broader systems within which those ties exist. This paper develops an interorganizational network typology and argues communication- and organizing-based consequences for varying ways in which interorganizational networks build up through engaged activities.

Author

• Marya L. Doerfel, Rutgers U