Governance of inter-organizational project networks

For a long time, inter-organizational networks have been considered to be either a hybrid form of governance mixing elements of markets and hierarchies, or a unique form beyond market and hierarchy. From both points of view, inter-organizational project networks, also known as project networks or project network organizations, assume a specific type of network governance in which project-based organizing dominates. In the meantime, several types of network governance are being differentiated: lead organization or shared forms, with or without a network administrative organization that takes on the task of coordinating the organizations collaborating in the network. Both levels, the network and the project level, may additionally be supported by project management offices, which cause not only additional complexities but also changes in terms of their governance. This chapter argues that the types of network governance are also relevant for understanding and managing inter-organizational project networks. Despite its emphasis on formal governance, the chapter will argue for a practice-based perspective that considers not only governance, but also governing.