KNA can be considered an extension of SNA ( Helms & Buijsrogge, 2006 ) as SNA provides a systematic method to pinpoint, study and verify processes of knowledge sharing in social networks ( Müller-Prothmann, 2007 ). KNA helps to disclose what facilitates or hampers knowledge flows, who knows whom and who shares what information and knowledge with whom ( Al-Hashem & Shaqrah, 2012 ). It also enables one to observe different types of knowledge networks based on the type of knowledge exchange (e.g. obtaining advice vs. learning; Helms et al., 2010 ). KNA can thus be described as an SNA with a KM approach. It explores social networks beyond a regular information-flow angle and focuses on what actors know, whether they have access to one another and most importantly, whether learning takes place and new knowledge is created.
Published in Chapter:
Understanding Knowledge Networks Through Social Network Analysis
Ronel Davel (University of Pretoria, South Africa), Adeline S. A. Du Toit (University of Pretoria, South Africa), and Martie Mearns (University of Johannesburg, South Africa)
Copyright: © 2020
|Pages: 32
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-7998-2189-2.ch004
Abstract
Social network analysis (SNA) is being increasingly deployed as an instrument to plot knowledge and expertise as well as to confirm the character of connections in informal networks within organisations. This study investigated how the integration of networking into KM can produce significant advantages for organisations. The aim of the research was to examine how the interactions between SNA, CoPs, and knowledge maps could potentially influence knowledge networks. The researchers endeavour to illustrate via this question that cultivating synergies between SNA, CoPs, and knowledge maps will enable organisations to produce stronger knowledge networks and ultimately increase their social capital. This chapter intends to present a process map that can be useful when an organisation wants to positively increase its social capital by examining influencing interactions between SNA, CoPs, and knowledge maps, thereby enhancing the manner in which they share and create knowledge.