Network Economy

'Professor Ard-Pieter de Man's new book, The Network Economy, is a substantial contribution to the literature on alliance management and, more importantly, an important contribution to the literature on corporate strategy and organization. His analysis is sound, his examples and illustrations, illuminating and the import of his work, profound.' - William T. Lundberg, The Association of Strategic Alliance Professionals, Inc., US'This is an exceptionally well-written and readable book that provides a fascinating insight into this increasingly important subject for the world economy. Professor de Man has not only successfully produced a comprehensive overview and analysis of the diverse literature on networks, but has also contributed a wealth of original commentary. Each element is placed within a logical framework that forms the structure of the book, such that the reader is always aware of the context of any particular detail. The content is a good balance between the theoretical and the practical, meaning this contribution will be of major value to both academic and business audiences.'- Peter Thurlby, Alliance Management, GlaxoSmithKline'In an age where alliances are more the rule than the exception, and the probability of failure still looms large, it is useful to have a book that attempts to manoeuvre through the land mines and other obstacles. Professor de Man has written a book on the network economy which brings the study and practice of alliances to a more complex level. While many of us think of firm A partnering with firm B, it is much more complicated than this. Firm A might be part of a consortium in which standards are being set, or part of a technology network which represents the convergence of different skills and scientific approaches. The author brings insights from his experiences as an academic and consultant, and develops a framework for analysis beginning with network formation and its drivers to partner selection, to competitive moves against rivals. For those who toil in the field of alliances, this is a must read book.' - Robert E. Spekman, University of Virginia, USWith an ever increasing number of relationships between different companies, overseeing a portfolio of strategic alliances has become one of the most challenging tasks for managers. Indeed, the network, rather than the individual firm, has become the most relevant and effective form of organization in the economy. By integrating the most recent academic literature with practical new insights, this book develops a framework that will help both managers and academics to understand the intricate workings of the network economy. The author explores critical issues such as network strategy, network structures, partner selection, network management, and competition in and between networks. By studying the fundamentals of the managerial process, he is able to create a comprehensive and logical overview of successful management in the network economy. He highlights the fact that companies now need to manage whole networks, not just individual alliances, and that the days when firms operated in isolation are over. He also provides a unique and intriguing look at network tactics, demonstrating the tricks and ploys firms use in a network scenario. Throughout the book, interesting case studies are used to illustrate examples of effective network management in leading companies such as Cisco, Glaxo, Microsoft, Nokia and Toyota. This is the first volume to translate theoretical ideas on network management into practical guidelines. It will become an invaluable aid to business people at all levels including CEOs, alliance and strategy managers, and RD managers. It will also be of immense value to academics interested in networks, innovation management and organisation, and policymakers involved with technology and anti-trust policy.