Social Network Analysis for New Ways of Working

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to assess the value of Social Network Analysis (SNA) in helping organizations identify patterns of communication and collaboration that affect organizational effectiveness. Of particular interest to organizations implementing new ways of working programs is whether SNA can be used proactively as a guide to future workspace design. Another major interest is whether there are differences between social networks formed on a face-to-face basis and networks that function virtually. The paper begins by providing a brief introduction to what SNA is. It then turns to a discussion of what can be learned by applying the concepts and tools that have been developed in the field. The paper draws on SNA literature to examine whether SNA can be used to analyze the impact of workspace design on communication. Then the paper discusses whether groups working “virtually” – relying heavily on electronic communication – form and maintain networks in the same way as groups that work face-to-face. Finally there is a discussion of future trends in SNA.