The effectiveness of cohesive and diversified networks: A meta-analysis

The entrepreneurship literature recognizes the substantial contributions of networks to firm performance. However, the circumstances under which cohesive versus diversified networks drive firm performance remain unclear. To rectify this situation, the present meta-analysis integrates the results of 68 independent samples (N=16,364). The findings indicate both cohesive and diversified networks relate to performance (rc=.164 and rc=.182). Moderator analyses suggest that diversified networks are particularly effective for large firms, firms competing in innovative industries and in well-developed financial markets. Cohesive networks relate to performance in small firms but not in large firms. These findings suggest that the relationship between networks and performance is context-dependent.