Types of Networks

Abstract

One of the central arguments of this book is that the development of a taxonomy of network forms is more useful than any simple definition of networks. Such a taxonomy offers the chance to distinguish between network forms in respect of the opportunities around, constraints on and resources for management within, management affecting and governance of networks. Moreover, each network form has a different context for sensemaking around these management activities since all networks exhibit divergent patterns of relationships between the member organisations or individuals (despite the claims of some writers and theorists).