How much of a metasystem is called for?
And I caution against paying for or submitting to more metasystem than called for.
Do you only need collaboration--working together in voluntary association? If so you don't need metasystemic services.
Do you need coordination--to avoid stepping on one another's toes? That is the cheapest and often the best value. For this you don't really need metasystemic services. This can be accomplished network function or a purchased service, and does not or require shared resources a hierarchical structure.
Do you need cooperation--operating together, shared resources, shared bosses, shared rules, shared infrastructure? This is a big big step. You will be paying taxes and often giving more than you recieve. Be sure it is worth the expense. Be sure you have the right partners and bosses. Keep your option open to change metasystem--if possible.
Do you need to co-design--create the future structure of the enterprise? This is a very big ask and a big commitment. It means, first, that you are willing to change what you are doing and even why you are doing it. Either mutual trust or desperation or both are required. Look around for organizations that are successful at this function. Join them if possible. This organizational capability is rarely in evidence. Your survival depends upon your success with this function.
Do you need to co-identify--literally experience yourself (your organization) as being integral to a larger entity. I suggest that co-identity is essential for successful co-design and even long-term cooperation. Co-identifying is an ongoing process that requires great leadership, trustworthy leadership. It is rarely in evidence in large organizations.
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Is there a moral or heuristic implied? Yes. Collaborate voluntarily whenever possible. Coordinate when needed. Avoid the entanglement and risk of cooperation, co-design, and co-identifying if you can survive without it. Work through collaborative networks with short term arrangements. Stay small and keep your options open. Work with like minded others, not with bosses.
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See Emilia Romana and Mondragon.