The theme discusses network and its fundamentals for understanding business exchanges, and specifically focuses on sensemaking and the role of the future in business networks.

Readings for this theme are:

- Aarikka-Stenroos, L. and Ritala, R. (2017), Network management in the era of ecosystems: Systematic review and management framework. Industrial Marketing Management 67, pp. 23-36.
- Baraldi, E., Brennan, R., Harrison, D., Tunisini, A., & Zolkiewski, J. (2007). Strategic thinking and the IMP approach: A comparative analysis. Industrial Marketing Management, 36(7), 879-894.
- Ford, D., & Håkansson, H. (2006). IMP - some things achieved: much more to do. European Journal of Marketing, 40(3/4), 248-258.
- Gulati, R., Puranam, P., & Tushman, M. (2012). Meta-organization design: Rethinking design in interorganizational and community contexts. Strategic Management Journal, 33(6), 571-586.
- Harrison, D., Holmen, E., & Pedersen, A. C. (2010). How companies strategise deliberately in networks using strategic initiatives. Industrial Marketing Management, 39(6), 947-955.
- Henneberg, S. C., Mouzas, S., & Naudé, P. (2006). Network pictures: concepts and representation. European Journal of Marketing, 40(3/4), 408-429.
- Håkansson, H. (Ed.). (1982). International marketing and purchasing of industrial goods - An interaction approach. London: John Wiley & Sons Ltd, ch. 1-2.
- Håkansson, H., & Snehota, I. (1989). No Business is an island - The network concept of business strategy. Scandinavian Journal of Management, 5(3), 187-200.
- Uzzi, B. (1997). Social structure and competition in interfirm networks: The paradox of embeddedness. Administrative science quarterly, 35-67.