High performance collaborative networks: a realistic innovation or just an academic desire?

Abstract

This paper presents the preliminary findings of a research project aiming at the definition of the conditions required for the creation and management of high-performance collaborative business networks in Northern Portugal. Given the industrial context of the region the emergence of such networks would be innovative in itself. The project adopted a multiplecase study research strategy, based on data from 40 semi-structured interviews. The preliminary results of the study include: 1) operational definitions based on an extensive literature review; 2) a conceptual framework for the analysis of high-performance collaborative networks; and 3) recommendations for the creation and on-going management of such networks.