Advice Networks in Public Organizations: The Role of Structure, Internal Competition, and Individual Attributes

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Siciliano, Michael D.
• 署名单位: University of Illinois System; University of Illinois Chicago; University of Illinois Chicago Hospital
• 刊物名称: PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION REVIEW
• ISSN/ISSBN: 0033-3352
• DOI: 10.1111/puar.12362
• 发表日期: 2015
• 页码: 548-559
• 关键词: p-asterisk models; social interdependence; INFORMATION-SEEKING; Knowledge transfer; teacher efficacy; HELP-SEEKING; performance; coevolution; COOPERATION; exchange

摘要

Interpersonal networks are increasingly important for organizational learning and performance. However, little is known about how these networks emerge. In this article, exponential random graph models are employed to explore the underlying processes of advice network formation in 15 organizations. The author examines the influence of (1) structural effects (reciprocity, transitivity, multiplexity), (2) actor attribute effects (job function, tenure, education, self-efficacy), and (3) peer competition. Results suggest that employees rely more on reciprocity, closure, and similarity in job function than on peer expertise or status when seeking advice. In addition, employees who perceive greater levels of competition with peers are significantly less likely to both seek and provide advice. As public organizations look to private sector strategies that promote internal competition to improve efficiency and accountability, public managers need to be aware of the negative implications those strategies can have on interpersonal networks and organizational learning.