Classification of Governance Features through Policy Networks Using Meta-synthesis Method

From the perspective of governance, the concept of “policy network” focuses on inter-organizational relations, structures, processes, and interactions that policy-making process takes place through them.  In public policy literature, this approach to policy networks is based on studying governance through policy networks. This article, provides a comprehensive classification of the features of this type of governance using meta-synthesis method. The purpose of this paper is to identify and classify governance features through policy networks.

In this study, 468 related articles and researches conducted between 1970 and 2018 were selected from the Web of Science citation index. Finally, 55 articles were evaluated for the purpose of the study using the meta-synthesis method and selection criteria. This research is qualitative and is conducted within the interpretive paradigm with the aim of exploring the features of governance through policy networks. This is an applied research in terms of purpose. It is also a cross-sectional study in terms of data collection.

The features of this kind of governance (Governance trough Policy Networks) can be divided into four general categories of "promoting coordination, coherence and integration", "strengthening communications, building trust and increasing participation", "policy learning improvement", and "facilitating policy implementation".

It is concluded that the researchers have conducted more studies regarding the two aspects of "promoting coordination, coherence and integration", "strengthening communications, building trust and increasing participation". Considering the importance of policy learning and policy implementation issues, future research can pay more attention to the two dimensions of "policy learning improvement", and "facilitating policy implementation". And finally, the findings of this study can be used to apply new approaches for improving governance in various policy areas.