| Form and structure |
The form of a network explains how the network was created. In a top-down or mandated approach, a government or clinical structure projects the network out to potential members. A bottom-up or organically developed network emerges from its members based on identified needs in their context. The network structure explains the linkages, horizontal or vertical, between different network members or stakeholders, including clinical entities, providers, or health system administrators and managers. |
| Governance and leadership |
Network governance refers to how the network is managed and administered, and decision-making processes employed to manage the network. The network leadership includes the level and form of leadership needed to effectively manage the network. Level of leadership refers to type, seniority, and experience of the leader. Form of the leadership refers to the structure of the leadership team, for example a hybrid clinical and management leadership team or a network management committee. |
| Mode of Functioning |
A network enacts its purpose through management and clinical functions. Management of a network includes monitoring compliance and accountability, while the clinical functions refer to the implementation and operationalization of policies and programs and the coordination of clinical care. |
| Resources |
Based on the existing typologies and frameworks, the two main types of resources available to networks are human resources and financial resources. These take different forms depending on the context and purpose of the network. This component was expanded during the analysis to include information technology, commodities, and equipment. |
| Communication |
A fifth component, communication, was added during analysis. Communication encompasses communication infrastructure as well as modalities and strategies. This component interlinks the four other components. |
