‘Networks of practice’ in the Italian motorsport industry

ABSTRACT The purpose of this paper is to advance research on inter-organisational networks by proposing a practice-based view of network formation and development in technology intensive environments. The research followed an exploratory, qualitative research design based on interviews, observation and documentary evidence to examine the recursive practices that have been enacted by racing car manufacturers and suppliers in the Italian motorsport industry in their efforts to develop increasing levels of collaboration and participation in product development activities. The results show how motorsport actors acted strategically and reflexively in negotiating their roles and the level of involvement in joint activities moving towards increased interpenetration and promoting legitimisation. However, in contrast to other studies of strategic network management, the leading actors have not imposed themselves unilaterally in structuring the network and knowledge flows. Rather lead firms have acted to encourage collaboration, participation and promote a shared sense of identity amongst network members.

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