What is Social Network Analysis (SNA)?

1. Social Network Analysis (SNA)
A tool for mapping and assessing
social networks

2. Social Network Analysis: What is it?
• Social networks are a set of nodes or individuals and
links that connect them
• SNA has its roots in sociology, economics, physics
and mathematics; took shape in 1930s with
organizational theory

3. Social network analysis in practice
• Software used for
performing SNA
– UCINET, Netdraw and survey
instruments
• Can determine
characteristics of
connections
– Shape
– Type
– Measures

4. How we analyze networks:
shapes

5. How we analyze networks:
types
Ego network
Bounded network

6. How we analyze networks:
measures
Node level:
Centrality
Network level:
Density, Distances

7. Networks and our lives
Today, with social
media tools and
technology, we build
these networks at a
far accelerated rate

8. SNA can be used across sectors and
industries
• Investigative work, uncovering crime rings
• Market segmentation, Research &
development
• Epidemiology and patterns of disease
transmission
• Social dynamics in
animal behavior

9. How NGOs and businesses can use SNA
in Cambodia
• Improving internal operations
• Knowledge management
• Strength of an association or consortium
• Mapping beneficiaries and channels of
information
• Fundraising and marketing activities
• Identifying customer segments as a startup

10. Case study:
SNA in a small Cambodian org

11. 1. Are there sustained and evolving
networks of Sarus alumni and
alumni groups?
2. Does attendance to alumni events
correlate with high connectivity?
3. Which communication channels are
most effective for Sarus?
4. What opportunities exist for enhancing
connectivity through alumni events?
Key Questions

12. • Is there data? If not, can I collect it?
• What question(s) am I trying to answer?
Benefits
– Exposing patterns
– Powerful visual tool
– Allows for multiple levels of analysis
Drawbacks
– Shouldn’t be a standalone tool, it complements other
assessments
– Survey reliability
– Only a snapshot in time
Should I use SNA?