The widening scope of inter‐organizational networking:

Strategic alliances and networks have become an integral part of contemporary strategic organizational thinking. Their spread seems to correspond with the increasing rate of joint venture formations and outsourcing endeavours that have dominated the business arena in the past decade or so. Examines the widening scope of networking in the light of the underlying economic, sectoral and social dimensions. Argues that outsourcing remains a fundamental economic ingredient in network formation, and shows that networking, as a novel form of organization, is far‐reaching and gaining unprecedented expansion throughout a wide range of economic sectors, as well as on a global scale. Examines and discusses the role of informal (social) networking and the important issue of trust. Outlines and discusses issues relating to the success of future networks.