The effectiveness of cohesive and diversified networks: A meta-analysis

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The entrepreneurship literature recognizes the substantial contributions of networks to firm performance. However, the circumstances under which cohesive versus diversified networks drive firm performance remain unclear. To rectify this situation, the present meta-analysis integrates the results of 68 independent samples (N = 16,364). The findings indicate both cohesive and diversified networks relate to performance (rc = .164 and rc = .182). Moderator analyses suggest that diversified networks are particularly effective for large firms, firms competing in innovative industries and in well-developed financial markets. Cohesive networks relate to performance in small firms but not in large firms. These findings suggest that the relationship between networks and performance is context-dependent.
Original languageEnglish
JournalJournal of Business Research
Volume69
Issue number2
Pages (from-to)554–568
Number of pages15
ISSN0148-2963
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 01.02.2016