Formal Hierarchies and Informal Networks: How Organizational Structure Shapes Information Search in Local Government

Abstract Attention to informal communication networks within public organizations has grown in recent decades. While research documented the role of individual cognition and social structure understanding information search organizations, this article emphasizes importance formal hierarchy. We argue that structural attributes bureaucracies are too important be neglected when modeling knowledge flows organizations. Empirically, we examine interpersonal information-seeking patterns among 143 employees a small city government, using exponential random graph (ERGM). The results suggest strongly shapes while accounting for network variables individual-level perceptions. find status, permission pathways, departmental membership all affect employees’ search. Understanding effects organizational on will offer opportunities improve via design choices.