The Network Organization

Even the French army has recognized that modern realities require a networked rather than hierarchical organization, according to Josserand (Univesité Paris Dauphine). Before presenting his analysis of four leading French companies in diverse sectors, he introduces the need for new organizational forms in an accelerated, globalized economy, and transition issues. Each case study examines interlinks between the company and its more or less autonomous units. The author concludes that, despite challenges, the network model is advantageous. Appendices provide methodological notes and profiles of the companies studied. Annotation ©2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)