Presenting 17 tools developed through rigorous design science research, this book bridges the relevance gap within network management. In so doing, it proposes a novel system-framework and establishes a path towards a networks-as-practice view on inter-organizational relationships. The systems-framework builds on three institutionalized business practices: Networks-as-coordinated social systems, Networks-as-knowledge-creating platforms, and Networks-as-value-generating entities. Through these tools, Towards Relational Business Practices intends to propose a new managerial praxis and provoke new and improved frameworks and models for network management. 

Jukka Vesalainen is Professor of Management and Organization at University of Vaasa, Finland, where his current research addresses networking and business relationships. He has published research articles in top international journals including Industrial Marketing Management, Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, Entrepreneurship and Regional Development, and International Small Business Journal.

Katri Valkokari is a principal scientist at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland in the Business Ecosystems, Value Chains and Foresight research area. Over the past 15 years, she has carried out several business development projects concerning different SME networks. She has published several international and national articles on business networks, innovation management and sustainability.

Magnus Hellström is a Senior Lecturer and docent in industrial management at Åbo Akademi University, Finland. Magnus has over five years’ experience working within the engineering works industry. His research interests include modularity, industrial services, and business ecosystems.