Micro governança de redes interorganizacionais: a auditoria governamental no contexto de combate à corrupção

Abstract

The formation of interorganizational networks to promote strategic actions is an increasingly present reality in the daily operations of both public and private sectors, serving as an alternative for sustainable development. It is within this context that micro-network governance emerges, along with its practices advocated by specialized literature as a pathway to address complex problems. Despite significant advances in research, further investigation is needed into the role of routine governance activities, particularly in the public sector. This study aims to fill that gap by analyzing micro-governance practices within the public environment that foster high-impact outcomes. The research method used to address the objectives was a case study of an interorganizational network formed by three public agencies within the administrative structure of the State of Rio Grande do Sul. This network comprises the State Department of Finance, the Department of Public Security, and the Public Prosecutor’s Office, established to combat corruption. As a result, the theoretical gap was addressed by putting micro-network governance mechanisms into practice. Additionally, improvements were identified, as arbitration and monitoring mechanisms require adjustments when applied in the public sector. It was also found that institutionalization is a necessary micro-governance practice within the public domain. Based on this discovery, a new framework was developed for micro-governance mechanisms tailored to the public sector. The study offers theoretical contributions by filling an empirical application gap of micro-governance mechanisms that enhance collaborative environments in the public sector. From a managerial perspective, it provides a deeper understanding of the micro-governance mechanisms necessary for collaboration, along with specific recommendations for the next stages of network maturity. Finally, from a social standpoint, the research identified that the application of micro-governance mechanisms in the fight against corruption resulted in financial gains of approximately 56 million reais during the study period.