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Incomplete contracts and the internal organisation of firms

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  • Aghion, Philippe
  • Van Reenen, John
  • Bloom, Nicholas

Abstract

We survey the theoretical and empirical literature on decentralization within firms. We first discuss how the concept of incomplete contracts shapes our views about the organization of decision-making within firms. We then overview the empirical evidence on the determinants of decentralization and on the effects of decentralization on firm performance. A number of factors highlighted in the theory are shown to be important in accounting for delegation, such as heterogeneity and congruence of preferences as proxied by trust. Empirically, competition, human capital and IT also appear to foster decentralization. There are substantial gaps between theoretical and empirical work and we suggest avenues for future research in bridging this gap.

Suggested Citation

  • Aghion, Philippe & Van Reenen, John & Bloom, Nicholas, 2013. "Incomplete contracts and the internal organisation of firms," LSE Research Online Documents on Economics 57987, London School of Economics and Political Science, LSE Library.
    • Handle: RePEc:ehl:lserod:57987
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    JEL classification:

    • J1 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics

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