Conclusions

Abstract

This chapter reviews the overall state of research in the field of inter-organizational relations, emphasizing its richness and experimental character, as well as challenges such as the risk of fragmentation and theorization in silos. More specifically, it serves three major purposes. First, we discuss the balance of review and exploration in our Handbook, pointing in particular to some of the chapters, which explore terra incognita. Second, we assess the primary rationalist and constructivist approaches and variables presented in the Handbook, debate major findings on agency and on structure in inter-organizational relations and highlight those issue areas where inter-organizational research is substantial and where it is deserving. Finally, we recommend nine future research directions.