Relational Ties and Network Structure: Selection of Information Providers in Inter-Organizational Learning

This study analyzes the mechanism of information provider selection during the inter-organizational learning dynamic process, which is essential but lacks attention in public sector learning literature. Based on a dynamic network dataset of field learning of Chinese local governments (2006–2019), we employ temporal exponential random graph model to reveal that inter-organization relationships and endogenous structure jointly drive the information provider selection in inter-organizational learning. This study contributes to enhancing knowledge and understanding of public sector organizations’ dynamic learning. Empirical findings have implications for how public managers and policymakers to strengthen inter-organizational learning or acquire new knowledge through management and policy.