Collaborative networks: a systematic review and multi-level framework

Collaborative networks (CNs) leverage the improving sociability and usability features of information technology to enable and enhance partnering that delivers competitive solutions. This partnering is motivated by business, supply chain, market and technological evolutions that create uncertainty and pressure on independently operating firms. Accordingly, literature on CNs has enhanced practice by shedding light on the collaboration patterns that underlie CNs and the different management mechanisms that are required to cope with the complexity of CNs. The purpose of this article is to systematically review the state-of-the-art of research for CNs with a view to identifying future research potentials and directions. It offers an assembling, critical appraisal and synthesis of the literature on CNs and focuses on the logic and management of CNs. It contributes to knowledge by outlining a multi-level framework of CNs based on the review findings. It is anticipated that the review will serve as the foundation for breaking new grounds in research and further advance the discipline of CNs.