Managing a network by utilizing performance measurement information

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how different network members utilize and use network‐level performance measurement information. This is an important approach when discussing the management and development of a network by utilizing a performance measurement system.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is a single‐case study, where a collaborative network forms the case. The data of the study have been gathered from an action research process of network performance measurement system design and its implementation phase in 2009, interviews in 2010, and discussions with the interviewees in 2012 to re‐evaluate the results.

Findings

The results of the study reveal that the use of the network‐level performance measurement system increased communication, trust, and commitment in the whole network, as well as in a single reselling unit. The performance measurement information also helped the companies create better alignment with their network partners.

Practical implications

The paper presents the main uses, utilizations and benefits of network‐level performance measurement and management from the perspectives of the different network members.

Originality/value

The case study contributes to the literature of performance measurement and management in a network environment. It presents the main uses and utilization of network‐level performance management and measurement.

Citation

Pekkola, S. (2013), "Managing a network by utilizing performance measurement information", Measuring Business Excellence, Vol. 17 No. 1, pp. 72-79. https://doi.org/10.1108/13683041311311374