Opening the black box of PSF network internationalization: An exploration of law firm networks. Issue 3 (6th November 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Salvoldi, Rany; Brock, David M
• Is Part Of: Journal of professions and organization. Volume 6:Issue 3(2019)
• Page Start: 304
• Page End: 322
• Publication Date: 2019-11-06
• Subjects: network -- international -- law firms -- typology; Professions -- Sociological aspects -- Periodicals; Organizational behavior -- Periodicals; Organizational sociology -- Periodicals; 331.71
• DOI: 10.1093/jpo/joz015
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2051-8803

Abstract

Abstract: This article advances our understanding of network internationalization by professional service firms. We address gaps in the literature concerning the various kinds of networks; their role in international strategies, including learning, and knowledge transfer; and their structural and governance mechanisms. Concentrating on the network dependency of 177 European law firms, we analyse and summarize their structural and governance tendencies. Then we develop a typology of seven international peer networks. The seven types identified are: ' Loose ', a network of disconnected actors, where exchange is mostly limited to referrals; ' Constricted ', referral-based networks aimed at optimizing exchange flows and cooperation; ' Focused ', networks aimed at a specific sector or specialty; ' Friends ', informal, non-exclusive networks; ' Exclusives ', formal alliances or cooperative relations; ' Monogamous ', well-established, broad, longstanding, and close relationships; and ' Isolated ', project-related alliances of limited duration. We conclude with a discussion that considers this typology in light of possible intangible outcomes of membership and proposes how this might be extended in future research.