Longitudinal multiplexity and structural constraints of online emergency collaborative networks: A tale of two Chinese societies

Abstract

Drawing upon the concept of longitudinal multiplexity and the Institutional Collection Action (ICA) framework, this article conducts a longitudinal observation of online emergency collaborative networks (ECNs) built and sustained among organizational actors within Shenzhen and Hong Kong in response to Typhoon Mangkhut. In addition to investigating the multiplex relationships among three types of online ECNs (i.e., preparedness networks, response networks, recovery networks), this article takes a comparative approach to examining how the structural constraints imposed by distinct emergency management systems (EMSs) influence the network formation and evolution as the disaster evolves over time. Findings obtained from a series of inferential network analyses reveal that preexisting online collaborative ties formed at the disaster preparedness stage are important for increasing organizations’ tendency to build and sustain online collaborations during disaster response and recovery. Moreover, the decentralized EMS in Hong Kong exhibits more effectiveness in facilitating online network changes during both transitional periods. These findings demonstrate a pressing need for emergency researchers and frontline communication managers to understand the dynamic relationships among online ECNs across different disaster phases and further explore potential opportunities to facilitate online emergency collaboration on a broader scale.