Network-based arrangements are increasingly used for policy implementation. Arguments are made for the potential benefits of this approach, but evidence of their efficiency is inconclusive. Recent methodological innovations, incorporating social network analysis, are building the evidence base. This article contributes to a growing area of study by exploring the relationship between the efficient implementation of European Union cohesion policy projects, and the characteristics of the networks involved in the implementation process. The research combined quantitative analysis of implementation of projects in Scotland in 2007–2013 and semi-structured interviews. The research finds that the involvement of many partners can have a negative impact on implementation. Rather, the strategic position of key actors in the network is important for efficient implementation. The results stress the importance of network governance and the role of key agents as nodes that bridge structural gaps and facilitate exchange of knowledge and resources.

中文翻译：

---

网络和有效的政策实施：凝聚力政策的见解

基于网络的安排越来越多地用于政策实施。对这种方法的潜在好处进行了论证，但其效率的证据尚无定论。最近的方法论创新，结合了社交网络分析，正在建立证据基础。本文通过探讨欧盟凝聚政策项目的有效实施与实施过程中涉及的网络特征之间的关系，为不断增长的研究领域做出贡献。该研究结合了 2007-2013 年苏格兰项目实施的定量分析和半结构化访谈。研究发现，许多合作伙伴的参与会对实施产生负面影响。相当，网络中关键行为者的战略地位对于有效实施很重要。结果强调了网络治理的重要性以及关键代理作为弥合结构差距和促进知识和资源交流的节点的作用。