Toward a Multiplex Network Theory of Interlocal Service Contracting
研究认为跨地方服务合同不是孤立的双边交换，而是多重网络现象，地方政府通过构建多个服务合同网络来降低风险，并用佛罗里达州皮内拉斯县的数据验证了多重互惠和网络闭合的作用。
Abstract Debates about risk in interlocal service contracts treat contracts as discrete dyadic exchanges. We challenge this notion by advancing a multiplex network contacting approach, which asserts that interlocal contracting represents a multiplex network phenomenon, defined as overlapping multiple service contract networks. Simultaneous treatment of multiple networks is required to understand how local governments mitigate contract risks. We claim that local governments create multiplex network structures comprising more than one service contract networks in order to reduce service contracting risks. Multivariate exponential random graph models were fit to joint high‐risk and low or mixed‐risk contract networks involving eight local government services in Pinellas County, Florida. The results demonstrate that local governments mitigate risk by creating multiplex reciprocity and multiplex network closure in contracts that involve multiple services.