Power in Collaborative Networks

Abstract

The research described herein focuses on understanding the effects of power on the processes and outcomes of collaborative networks. Power is conceptualized from a structural perspective, as the dependence that exists in the relationships that tie network participants together. Using the method of social network analysis, the dissertation first validates a measure of structural power in collaborative networks, betweenness centrality. It then examines the effect of uneven distributions of structural power among participants on an important variable for these networks: cohesion, as measured from a behavioral perspective. This effect is examined from the perspective of two levels of analysis: the whole network level and the working group level. The results indicate that structural power has a variable effect on cohesion, depending on the level of analysis. At the whole network level, uneven distributions of power negatively affect the cohesive behavior of participants. At the working group level, on the other hand, the relationship between the variables is curvilinear. Finally, the effect of structural power on three dimensions of participant satisfaction is examined: process satisfaction, human capital satisfaction, and outcome satisfaction. The research finds that being in a power disadvantaged position affects how participants rate their satisfaction with the process of collaboration.