Modular Interorganizational Network Governance: A Conceptual Framework for Addressing Complex Social Problems

Srivardhini K. Jha, E. Richard Gold and Laurette Dubé
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Srivardhini K. Jha: Indian Institute of Management Bangalore, Entrepreneurship Area, F202, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore 560076, India
E. Richard Gold: Faculty of Law, McGill University, 3644 Peel Street, Room 408, Montreal, QC H3A 1W9, Canada
Laurette Dubé: McGill Centre for the Convergence of Health and Economics, McGill University, 3430 McTavish St., Montréal, QC H3A 1X9, Canada

Sustainability, 2021, vol. 13, issue 18, 1-21

Abstract: We develop a conceptual governance framework to guide creating and managing a modular interorganizational network to address complex social problems. Drawing on theoretical foundations in modularity and interorganizational networks, we propose that modularizing complex social problems is a dialectic, emergent process that blends a convener-led network formation with a consultative problem definition and solution design. We also posit that social systems are imperfectly modular and need purposefully designed interface governance to integrate the modules. Finally, we advance how leveraging modularity may simultaneously advance the interests of participating actors and deliver societal value. Together, the propositions advance a governance framework for a modular, multi-actor adaptive system suited to tackle the scale, diversity, and dynamics of complex social problems.

Keywords: social problems; modularity; network governance; value creation; interdependence; convergent innovation (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2021
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