C-suite Network: Södertälje Science Park : Improving the understanding of arranged business-to-business networks,potentials, and challenges: an applied research on a Science Park in Sweden.

Sammanfattning: This master thesis aims to investigate best practices related to arranged networks, focusing ontheir conditions, essential characteristics, challenges, and sustainability perspectives.Specifically, it explores the perceptions of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in themanufacturing industry, with a particular emphasis on C-suite executives. This thesis utilizesqualitative methods, including interviews and observations, with both the selected targetgroup and individuals actively engaged in and supporting these networks and communities.The primary objective is to gain insights into the current management, organization, andimplementation of organized networks as well as insight in how the target group perceivesnetworks. The research problem lies in the challenge of determining an optimal networkingand network implementation approach, particularly within the context of Science Parks wherelimited research has been conducted in this specific domain. Given the complex and abstractnature of arranged networks, multiple layers and factors need careful consideration. It hasbeen observed during the research that the relationships and trust among members play acritical role in the degree of openness and closeness within these networks, leading toincreased complexity. Furthermore, the significance of relationships and trust in perceivingthe value of the network is underscored, prompting inquiries into effective relationship-building and rapid trust establishment. Additionally, the roles assumed by networkparticipants are crucial, with literature emphasizing the importance of a diversified group,while interviews with C-suite executives reveal a preference for a homogeneous groupcomprising like-minded individuals confronting similar challenges and issues.The thesis was carried out in close collaboration with Södertälje Science Park (SSCP), aScience Park in Sweden. As a result, the findings have practical contributions for SödertäljeScience Park in how they can implement a business-to-business network for C-suits.Additionally, the thesis seeks to contribute with theoretical insights that can facilitate thedevelopment of networks in various contexts, such as other Science Parks, incubators, andsimilar entities. Consequently, this research has the potential to offer valuable insights topolicymakers and practitioners, including Science Park managers and companies operatingwithin Science Parks.