Enhancing inter-firm networks and interorganizational strategies

The focus of this volume is on the myriad dynamics associated with these inter organizational ventures. Emphasis is placed on (1) understanding the nature of these different inter organizational forms and (2) ways to enhance their effectiveness, creating and sustaining complex problem-solving capabilities and collaborative tendencies in a multi organizational environment. While the orientation of many of the initiatives and interventions in this volume reflects a traditional organization-development (OD) focus, emphasis is placed on working across organizational interfaces, attempting to create the capacity and systemic potential for greater inter organizational learning and performance, rather than releasing human potential solely within an organization (see, e.g., Cummings, 1984). Consultants and researchers in this realm thus focus on spanning organizations, creating and modifying networks of participants that (1) have a stake in particular inter organizational outcomes and (2) depend on those inter-firm relationships and networks to accomplish their goals.