Microstructural analysis in interorganizational systems

This paper argues that network analyses of interorganizational relations should begin by examining the way in which relations are organized at the local level. It posits that systematic departures from random models for dyad and triad censuses should be found before interpreting structural patterns isolated by analytic techniques concerned with overall network structure. Three principles of organizational bonding (resource inequality, reciprocity, and redundancy) are identified, and the implications of these for dyadic and triadic microstructures are detailed. Particular attention is given to differentiating between microstructural patterns to be anticipated when a system consists of autonomous actors approximately equal in power and resources and those expected when a system is highly centralized.