Network Isomorphism?: A Network Perspective On The Symbolic Performance Of Purpose-Oriented Networks

While there has been increasing interest in understanding network performance in public and nonprofit sectors, the existing literature on network performance has primarily focused on the internal functioning of networks, paying less attention to the external environment. In this study, we address this gap by adopting a network domain perspective in combination with social network analysis technique to examine both internal and external stakeholder assessments of network's symbolic performance. Examining a case where multiple networks exist in one county who all focused on the health domain, the study aims to test competing hypotheses built upon institutional theory and strategic management literature on the relationship between network isomorphism and networks' symbolic performance. Our findings aim to contribute to both the public network literature as well as advance institutional theory within networked environments.