Collaboration, Coproduction, Networks – Convergence of Theories

This paper suggests to study service delivery networks by drawing on the theories of collaboration, coproduction, and networks combined. We introduce four dimensions of coproduction under ‘coproduction-oriented collaborations’. This framework allows us to ‘zoom in and zoom out’ when we study networks. Using the case method approach, the framework is applied to analyse four networks in Singapore. Findings suggest that network process, network structure, and characteristics of actors are crucial to a network’s performance. The paper also offer implications for practice that in certain contexts the usage of these concepts are for managerial effectiveness and not for enhancing democratic values