The network construct in entrepreneurship research: a review and critique

Abstract

The network construct is in common usage in entrepreneurship research. However while the increasing use of the construct has furthered our understanding of the phenomenon of entrepreneurship, its popularity has sometimes led to misapplication and inconsistent research findings. Traces the development of the network concept in the two strands of research that have dominated this field, namely inter‐organisational networks and the entrepreneur’s personal network. Discusses the specific contexts in which these two branches have received most attention. Proposes that several key areas have been relatively neglected and offers direction for future research which would serve to improve our understanding of the entrepreneurial process.

Citation

O’Donnell, A., Gilmore, A., Cummins, D. and Carson, D. (2001), "The network construct in entrepreneurship research: a review and critique", Management Decision, Vol. 39 No. 9, pp. 749-760. https://doi.org/10.1108/EUM0000000006220