The present research examines small-firm networks in Japanese industrial districts. We propose and discuss the typology … of these networks. Special attention is paid to horizontal networks, characterised by enhanced co-operation and … competition between small firms. We analyse these networks from the perspective of the social embeddedness approach and the …

In this paper we analyze how legitimacy allows us to develop differentiated relationships in business networks. Our … central argument is that the building of legitimacy in business networks through certification needs the development of what … institutional theories (DiMaggio and Powell, 1983) approach to explain how business networks can adopt and manage legitimacy. We …