Exploring Communication and Networks Using Social Network Analysis

Abstract

Programme management’s importance is increasing, particularly in the public sector, because of government promotion of PM. However, its novelty means PM is an under-researched organizational form.This is particularly the case with the application studied here of PM for asset management in the utility sector with its unique setting of a heavily-regulated monopoly.This study focuses on an asset management programme that comprises a utility company and its eight contractor partners, and explores how communication networks are influenced by organizational affiliation, seniority, technical nature of the work and geographical proximity. Social network analysis is used in a participative, cross-sectional study of communication networks.The study reveals that association with technical work content has a noteworthy influence on the individual’s positioning in the communication network.