Factors in IT-enabled collaboration in the public sector: the neighbor effect1

This study examines the rational choice and institutional factors influencing the spread of information technology enabled public safety network collaborations in the United States. Consistent with past neighbor effect research, this study tests economic, geographic, and demographic factors predictive of PSN proliferation at the state level. Results suggest a "follow the money" pattern, with internal and external resources, along with neighbor-state spending, being predictive of PSN proliferation. The "neighbor effect" here reflects a state level mimetic isomorphic influence that provides context to the more rational and resource-based factors associated with network proliferation. Examining isomorphic forces in public safety is particularly warranted since resource allocation decisions in this domain carry grave consequences. This study extends neighbor-effect research into the domain of public safety, identifies unexpected findings regarding violent crime rates and federal funding, and explores possibly ill-fit decision criteria by specifying a measure for mimetic isomorphism in public safety spending.