Assembling Interorganizational Networks: What Shapes Network Identity?

Goal-directed interorganizational networks are claimed to have a distinct identity. Yet, little is known about the characteristics of this network identity. So, I ask: What shapes network iden-tity systematically? The paper draws empirically on a survey sample and coded internet self-representations of 232 coordinated interorganizational networks in Germany. Analyses with path analysis and multinomial logistic regression reveal systematic relationships between network identity and possible antecedents. Identity is measured by the form of self-representation and the legal form. The form of self-representation varies over time and is moderated by the (non-)existence of the legal form. The choice of a legal form is constant over time, yet is shaped by size, market competition, market volatility, and domain similarity. These findings contribute knowledge to how identities of goal-directed interorganizational networks can be conceptualized