Analysing the viability of business networks in multinational organisations: a case study of the aerospace and defence industry

This paper outlines ways of increasing the productivity and performance of organisational networks within multinational corporations. It explores their heterogeneous knowledge structures, while analysing their strengths and weaknesses. The research examines the collaborative knowledge networks of one of the largest multinational defence and aerospace organisations in the world and adopts an interpretivist philosophy, using a qualitative research methodology. This study argues that, both informal and formal business networks should be supported by management to enhance knowledge sharing between different groups within multinational organisations. It also argues that, knowledge sharing policies should be reviewed on an on-going basis in order to create a robust network of networks while acknowledging the importance of smaller and more isolated knowledge exchange communities.