The Structure of Content in Multiplex Ties: Exploring the Advantages for Entrepreneurs in Rural India

26 Pages Posted: 4 Aug 2012

See all articles by Suresh Bhagavatula

Suresh Bhagavatula

Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore

Tom Elfring

VU University Amsterdam

Date Written: December 28, 2010

Abstract

The results of the studies on the influence of network structure of entrepreneurs on firm performance have been inconclusive. This could be due to the fact that in these studies, networks have been taken to be a conduit for single type of content. That ties are multiplex in nature is known but little work has been done to explore the interaction between network structures and content in an entrepreneurial setting. In this study we explore how the structure of the content of ties plays a role in entrepreneurial performance. By doing so, we extend the literature in two specific ways – firstly by focusing, on the structure of various multiplex ties, an attempt is made to reconcile the conflicting findings on the beneficial or detrimental effects of structural holes on performance. Secondly, we take this opportunity to understand how content of ties influences entrepreneurial outcomes - a gap that scholars have recently appealed future researchers to address (Jack, 2009; O’Donnell et al. 2001; Uzzi and Lancaster, 2003). By focusing the study within a low technology context in an emerging economy, we address how individuals set up and manage their firms in a low technological domain in India and the implications for social entrepreneurship.

Suggested Citation

Bhagavatula, Suresh and Elfring, Tom, The Structure of Content in Multiplex Ties: Exploring the Advantages for Entrepreneurs in Rural India (December 28, 2010). IIM Bangalore Research Paper No. 319, Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=2122450 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.2122450

Suresh Bhagavatula (Contact Author)

Indian Institute of Management, Bangalore ( email )

Bannerghatta Road
Bangalore, Karnataka 560076
India
918026993704 (Phone)

Tom Elfring

VU University Amsterdam ( email )

De Boelelaan 1105
Amsterdam, ND North Holland 1081 HV
Netherlands

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