Redefining the Boundary Spanning-Environment Relationship

A review of previous studies on the relationship between boundary spanning activity and environment indicates that the full effects of environment have not been investigated due to the restricted representation of environmental effects. In addition, we argue that the boundary spanning-environment relationship may be moderated by function, hierarchical level, perceived influence, size, and industry. Accordingly, an enlarged model of the boundary spanning-environment relationship is tested in both the high-technology electronics industry and the wood products industry. Results indicate that boundary spanning activity is related to environment, but this relationship appears to vary along dimensions of environment as well as by industry. In addition, size, perceived influence, and function are found to moderate the boundary spanning-environment relationship. Implications for further studies include a reconceptualization of the boundary spanning-environment relationship based on the findings.

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