Harnessing social interaction and intellectual capital in intergovernmental networks

Abstract

Purpose – Intellectual capital creation (ICC) in networks has been considered as central to the processes for responding to wicked problems. However, our knowledge on the factors that explain ICC in networks is limited. We take a step towards filling this research gap by drawing on an extended view of social capital to identify specific network features that should explain ICC heterogeneity in engineered intergovernmental networks. Design/methodology/approach – A sample of 655 local authorities participating in 8 networks was used to test the framework proposed. Data analysis followed a three-step approach. Firstly, confirmatory factor analysis was applied to assess the convergent and discriminant validity of the measures. Secondly, a non-parametric median test was conducted to determine whether the variables under study were statistically different for the eight networks. Lastly, the structural model underlying the conceptual framework was tested. Findings – We found that the eight intergovernmental networks studied differed significantly in their levels of social interaction and ICC. At a structural level, three variables usually considered representative of social capital (social interaction, trust, and shared vision) and two supplementary variables (shared resources and shared decisions) were proven to have significant direct and/or indirect effects on ICC. Originality/value – No previous cross-sectional research has studied the link between the creation of social capital and intellectual capital in engineered intergovernmental networks. As our research focuses on networks and climate change, it contributes to the fourth and fifth stages of intellectual capital research.