2. The typical research study examines relationships
among variables (focus on variables)
◦ Data most frequently are organized in a cases-by-variable
matrix for analysis
◦ Usually samples from populations, requiring inferential
processes to estimate population values
A social network analysis (SNA) studies relationships
among entities (focus is on relationships)
◦ Data typically organized in an entity-by-entity matrix
◦ Inferential processes are developed, but rarely used
Social network analysis focuses on relationships, not attributes
3. A network is composed of a series of nodes
interconnected by communication paths
Examples:
◦ Physical, as in a storm water management system that
connects street drains to corrugated pipes that, eventually,
aggregate storm water to treatment plants.
◦ Virtual, as in a network of linked computers
◦ Biological, as in a nervous system composed of synapses
that pass chemical or electrical signals among neurons
◦ Networks also can be social
They are all around us
4. A social network is composed of nodes represented
by individuals or organizations that are linked by
such social factors as friendship, kinship, common
interest, or financial exchange.
As with any network, the structure of links among
nodes in a social network can be represented by a
network diagram.
9. What social relationships are important in workforce
education & development?
How could information about social networks be
used for improvement of organization?
