Abstract

This research used social network analysis to explore a network of over 1000 community partners of a national charitable organization that funds sport participation by linking both the sport and recreation sectors. The network operates through a highly centralized mechanism of coordination created and maintained by the host organization. While the coordination of the network is centralized, tremendous latitude for decision-making is delegated to local partners to uphold the vision and core purpose of the organization: to facilitate sport participation. Network governance aligns with a structure that combines centralized coordination with decentralized decision-making by local partners which is underpinned by shared values across the network of partners. Exploring concepts such as network density and centrality enabled us to understand the structure of the network and the nature of linkages between the partners. The results of the study uncovered the presence of regional knowledge brokers that served as hubs for information and knowledge sharing. However, overall the structure was fragmented and unable to exploit opportunities for knowledge sharing, innovation, and organizational learning. Network mapping using UCINET 6 provided illustrations that reflected reduced channels of communication between partners and across the central hubs in the network. Efforts to increase communication through technology, creating an e-newsletter that shares best practices, hosting regional or provincial conferences for network partners, providing incentives for ideas sharing and encouraging partners to form new links and connections among the people in geographically proximal locations can positively influence their motivation to collaborate.

Presenters

Laura Cousens
Associate Professor, Sport Management, Brock University, Ontario, Canada

Martha Barnes
Associate Professor, Recreation and Leisure Studies, Brock University, Ontario, Canada

Details

Presentation Type

Paper Presentation in a Themed Session

Theme

Sports Management & Commercialization

KEYWORDS

Network Analysis, Network Structure, Network Density, Network Centrality, Sport Charity

Digital Media

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