Governance, cooperation and coordination in large inter-organisational project networks: a viable system perspective
International Journal of Operations & Production Management
ISSN: 0144-3577
Article publication date: 9 August 2023
Issue publication date: 15 February 2024
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to further the understanding of multi-level analysis in inter-organisational relationships by investigating the interplay of governance, cooperation and coordination in inter-organisational projects (IOPs) on sub-system and project levels.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors use the Viable Systems Model as a framework to analyse inter-organisational project governance, cooperation and coordination by adopting a multiple-case study.
Findings
The findings illustrate how governance and coordination mechanisms exhibit a filter-down effect on lower sub-systems while cooperation influence is confined within each sub-system. While remarking the importance of specific sub-systems on the overall project performance, the interplay of governance, cooperation and coordination across sub-systems appears to be complex, with governance influencing cooperation and coordination, whereas cooperation and coordination influence each other with an incremental effect.
Originality/value
This study defines two propositions that explain how multiple levels of analysis (project and sub-systems) can support the governance of large inter-organisational projects. The authors elaborate theory on the interplay of inter-organisational project governance, cooperation and coordination.
Keywords
Citation
Tannir, M., Mills, G., Krystallis, I. and Kalra, J. (2024), "Governance, cooperation and coordination in large inter-organisational project networks: a viable system perspective", International Journal of Operations & Production Management, Vol. 44 No. 3, pp. 617-642. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJOPM-08-2022-0485
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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