| dc.description.abstract | Cooperation is crucial for organizations as it allows them to increase their competitiveness, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The formation of small-firm networks, which facilitates the sharing or access to scarce resources for member companies, is one of the organizational arrangements that can be implemented. As networks expand in size and complexity, many adopt the governance model implemented by network administrative organizations – NAO. When an agency relationship is identified, this network administrative organization begins to be managed by hired professionals, which can result in information asymmetry and the emergence of conflicts of interest, as the network manager may act for their own benefit to the detriment of the associates' interests. Although small-firm networks are not required by law to implement a governance system, the implementation of these mechanisms and practices can improve the transparency, longevity and effectiveness of these organizations. The purpose of this research is to introduce an artifact for assessing the governance maturity level of small-firm networks. The Design Science Research – DSR method was used for this objective, which consists of five steps (problem awareness, suggestion, development, evaluation, and conclusion) that allow for the creation and validation of an artifact. Four small-firm networks managers were involved in the identification and awareness of the problem, which justified the issue to be solved. The first version of the artifact was created after a literature review. The validation process was divided into two stages, with seven experts interviewed and two versions of the artifact produced. The final artifact is composed of four basic governance pillars: transparency, equity, accountability, and corporate responsibility, as well as environmental, social, and corporate governance (ESG) themes and 34 items that aid in the measurement of network governance maturity. This research adds to existing knowledge and identifies opportunities for improvement in the management of small-firm networks. | en |
