Interpersonal and inter-organizational networks in the performing arts: the case of project-based organizations in the live music industry

The main aim of the paper is to contribute to the literature on project-based organizations (PBOs), concerning how temporary organizations are nested in an organizational setting that involves interpersonal and inter-organizational networks. Special attention is paid to the performing arts. A PBO is defined here as an organization that uses a one-shot method of organizing transactions, created by the ability of a permanent organization to design an organizational setting using the existing social and productive net. This may be considered a latent, informal network, based on reputation-driven interpersonal relationships. The paper also attempts to explore the relationship between the organizational capabilities to deploy latent networks and their economic performance. The empirical context is live music performances in the Veneto region. The analysis relates to the population of singers who have worked with an organization at least once in 2003, performing at an artistic event within this region. Using statistical techniques and network analysis tools, the analysis reveals the existence of a network of creativity, where the ability of the organizations to deploy latent networks supports their economic performance.