Abstract
This paper aims to discuss the development and functioning conditions of business networks. After recalling the
main characteristics of post-fordistic environment and comparing it to a “stormy sea” (section one) of the paper
focuses on the idea of networks described as “rafts” useful to firms to build their own competitive advantages. In
fact, while theoretical knowledge is not so valuable because everybody can have it, practical and contextual
knowledge is specific and therefore it can be defended. The development of a contextual knowledge is feasible if
the firm chooses among all the possible alternatives. Subsequently in section two, it shows how fordistic principles
eliminate space, reduce time, and increase the speed of communication among individuals and as entering a
network has become a necessity as it allows a firm to obtain competitive advantages. The greatest benefit is the
chance to share the task of creating new knowledge among different members. In section three it is discussed if
navigation in the post-fordistic stormy sea could take advantage from the existence of a more certain regulation. It
is necessary to underline that positive law is not a post-fordistic tool. There is no satisfactory detailed law regarding
ideas, knowledge, and know-how, by now. Therefore, it is not possible to rely on a specific regulation framework to
protect knowledge found on the network. In conclusion in section four, the work discusses how single organizations
need to reach the “raft”—which is the network—through the idea of sharing learning and distinguishing elements
necessary to survive in the stormy sea post-Fordism environment. Lastly, section five would be analyzed a public
institution—Milan Chamber of Commerce—which has “changed its dress” to more effectively perform its support
role to firms.
Lingua originale | Inglese |
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pagine (da-a) | 762-774 |
Numero di pagine | 12 |
Rivista | CHINESE BUSINESS REVIEW |
Volume | 12 |
Numero di pubblicazione | 11 |
Stato di pubblicazione | Pubblicato - 1 gen 2013 |