Information nodes in the Dutch security sector Finding problems and opportunities when facilitating inter-organizational information exchange

Abstract

A seemingly new form of inter-organizational collaboration exists in the Dutch security sector, which we call an information node. This form of collaboration takes place in a complex environment and attempt to combat a unique problem. Because of this, there are differences in the way each information node operates. Because of this, each information node is created nearly from scratch and time and resources are lost reinventing the wheel. Knowledge from other information node could prove valuable to existing and new information nodes and can prevent them from making mistakes other information nodes have already found solutions for. Based on literature on chain-computerization, Inter-Organizational Systems (IOS), Trust in inter-organizational relationships, and Administration theory as well as through discussions with experts in the field, a definition of an information node has been created. From this definition and from examination of existing inforamtion nodes, a list of aspects on which information nodes can differ has been found and a checklist of lessons learned has been created,