Impact of Social Network Analysis Theory In Strengthening Diversity In Modern Organization

The Impact of Social Network Analysis Theory In Strengthening Diversity in Organizations

            Social Network Theory (SNT) is the relationship among individuals in a particular setting.  This relationship could be in a family setting or within an organization.  People depend on this network for their development, success, advancement, growth and to mention a few.  The role of SNT cannot be overemphasized both in a family setting as well as in an organizational setting.  “Most network members provide some form of helpful information. Others provide emotional, recreational, financial and spiritual support.” (Maunden, 2001 p.272).  The focus of this paper will be on how SNT can be used to strengthen organizational diversity in order to achieve successful organizational change initiative and some short falls of SNT if any.   The following are the fundamental ways by which SNT can strengthen diversity and derives positive change within an organization.

            First, “the shape and structure of the fields or networks within which organizations operate can have significant implications for policy making and implementation.” (Mullins & Rhodes 2007, p.8).  If the relationship within an organization is warm and welcoming; and more importantly, a relationship that is all inclusive and respects diverse opinions and views will go along way to strengthening diversity and change.  Since SNT emphasizes on relationships and networks, it can be used in a positive way within an organization to strengthen diversity and promote the needed change initiative.  SNT can be used to build diverse teams that work well together to promote the needed change and innovation.  This initiative can be accomplished by identifying individuals with similar skill and expertise within the organization.

            Second, “there is an interest in ways in which policy interventions are and should be structured in the context of network governance through the introduction of new agents to change behavior.” (Mullins & Rhodes 2007, p.8).  When networks are formed to strengthen diversity and change within an organization, the mindset of the individuals within the network must be changed to accept the changed policy.  Diversity is strengthened when individuals’ mindset is changed through policy introduction to accept the views and input of other team members.  Organizational change is impossible when individuals are not made to respect diverse views and opinions from others.

            Furthermore, SNT can be used to strengthen diversity to meet organizational needs for change.  Certain individuals may possess some unique talents and skill that could be difficult to identify.  The development of social network theory may help management identify hidden talents among social network to strengthen organizational change.  “Social Network may help identify some abstract features of operations networks that otherwise go unnoticed within an organization.” (Rutherford 2007, p.27).

Gaps That Might Hinder Implementation  of SNT

            Even though SNT promotes relationships and team spirit among individuals, certain factors may prohibit the implementation of this relationship based theory.  “People often ask their acquaintances for interesting items to obtain advice, which show a kind of collaboration in the real world or organization, lack of trust will hinder collaboration.” (Gao, Ding & Ying 2006, p.351).  If individuals within the organization do not trust each other, the lack of trust will hinder the effective and smooth implementation of SNT. 

References

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