Assessing the maturity of collaborative networks: A case study analysis in the Italian fashion SMEs

The dynamic and complex context in which Italian SMEs are competing has led to their choice to constitute collaborative networks, in order to improve their capabilities and to take advantage to more resources, such as skills and knowledge. The present study aims to assess the features of collaborative networks in the Italian companies working as suppliers in the fashion industry through a multiple case study research. A first literature review has shown several frameworks evaluating companies at a cross-industry level. Then, the Camarinha-Matos & Afsarmanesh model has been chosen to assess the features of the networks analyzed. The Collaborative Networked Organizations (CNOs) in the Tuscan-Emilian districts appear qualitatively well developed but improvable in their structure and in their strategies´ definition. Therefore, the present research describes the reality of CNOs in the Italian context, providing interesting insights for researcher, overviewing the main frameworks assessing CNOs, and also for managers that are facing the issues related to collaboration between SMEs.