Network Governance Design Canvas
Canvas with eight governance design questions for networks and alliances.
PURPOSE
The Network Governance Design Canvas addresses the particular challenge of governing networks and alliances, which differs fundamentally from leading hierarchical organizations. It helps design governance structures that balance autonomy and coordination in networks. The tool is essential for multi-stakeholder initiatives, innovation networks, and strategic alliances.
HOW TO USE
The canvas guides through eight central governance design questions that are worked through systematically. These include questions about decision-making processes, resource allocation, accountability, and conflict resolution within the network. The questions are ideally answered together with network partners to create a shared governance understanding. The result is a documented governance framework for the network.
WHAT IT IS
The Network Governance Design Canvas is a canvas tool that structures eight central governance design questions for networks and alliances. It covers areas such as decision-making, resource allocation, accountability, and conflict management. The tool is specifically designed for the governance requirements of network structures, not for hierarchical organizations.
EXAMPLE
Example: You are coordinating a network of five universities jointly developing an AI degree program. With the Network Governance Design Canvas, you clarify the eight central governance questions: Who decides what, how are resources shared, how do members join or leave?
PREREQUISITES
- All network partners represented
- Skill: Network governance
- Skill: Neutrality between partners
⚠️ WATCH OUT
- Governance clarification gets postponed until the first conflict makes it impossible
- Common mistake: Excluding decision and resource questions
💡 SUCCESS FACTORS
- The uncomfortable questions (money, exit, veto) first