Advancing a process theory on coevolution among networks

Abstract The extant research on network development often focuses on individual networks, thereby leaving room for theorizing how multiple networks coevolve. To fill the gap, we aim to create a conceptual framework to explain coevolution among networks. Drawing from the fields of biology, ecology and sociology and integrating them into the management literature, we propose that the basis for network coevolution is the existence of hot and cold spots—where networks are either mutually receptive to signals from each other or not—and that coevolution is driven by identity schisms. We also introduce essential mechanisms (criteria for fitness, traits change), characteristics (neither deterministic nor causal, disruption of network development process) and possible outcomes (mutation, competition, isolation, complementariness, extinction) of coevolution among networks. The contribution of the study on the extant research on social networks and networking lies in increasing our understanding of the mechanisms of network-to-network interaction at the whole network level