Invisible network

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Under invisible networks the totality of actually taking place relations and interactions is understood between organizational members. This whole consists of the parts (organization members) and their connections (interactions). These networks are also referred to as "invisible" because managers can perceive individual aspects of social networks , for example by reflecting on their own relationships and observing the interaction of their colleagues. However, this only gives you an insight into a partial aspect of the overall network. In addition, their subjective assessments often turn out to be inaccurate.

Demarcation

The formal process description also has visible, formally prescribed communication relationships. However, these are only abstract rules. The extent to which the communication prescribed by them actually takes place is not fully visible. In their entirety, invisible networks remain invisible until they are made transparent through a systematic analysis.

Types

The following types of invisible networks can be distinguished:

  • Communication networks refer to the exchange of information or knowledge between members of the organization (e.g. work-related communication network, general communication network, knowledge transfer network). This can be both formally intended communication that actually takes place (e.g. reports). However, it can also be about information contacts that supplement the formal process descriptions or even contradict them.
  • Evaluation and emotional networks include friendships, trusting relationships, but also antipathy between actors (e.g. friendship network, trust network).
  • Transaction networks describe the transfer of resources (e.g. workflow network).

literature

  1. ^ J. Mitchell: The Concept and Use of Social Networks. In: J. Mitchell (Ed.): Social Networks in Urban Situations. Manchester 1969, p. 2.
  2. ^ D. Krackhardt: Assessing the Political Landscape: Structure, Cognition, and Power in Organizations. In: Administrative Science Quarterly. 35, 1990, pp. 342-369.
  3. ↑ B. Ricken, D. Seidl: Invisible networks. How social network analysis can be used for companies. Gabler, Wiesbaden 2010.
  4. ↑ D. Knoke, J. Kublinski: Network Analysis. London 1982, p. 18.
  5. ^ S. Wasserman, K. Faust: Social Network Analysis. Methods and Applications. New York 1994, p. 18.