Small-world communities are stable and withstand changes. Subgroups form, but bridge builders make sure that the community isn't segregated. Is your online/offline community or team a small world?
I love this analogy (and love Galway)! One challenge I've seen is the tension between allowing natural formation of (sub)groups by the members vs the desire to concentrate the activity in the community. Sometimes if you peel off too many subgroups, the cohesive community suffers or looks empty. What are your thoughts on that balance?
I think the balance is important. Getting it right is hard. People need their own space (as individuals and subgroups), but there also needs to be a common core, like an all-encompassing vision or purpose, that pulls everyone together. I think that's where network analytics can help a lot in creating and sustaining the balance.
I love this analogy (and love Galway)! One challenge I've seen is the tension between allowing natural formation of (sub)groups by the members vs the desire to concentrate the activity in the community. Sometimes if you peel off too many subgroups, the cohesive community suffers or looks empty. What are your thoughts on that balance?
I think the balance is important. Getting it right is hard. People need their own space (as individuals and subgroups), but there also needs to be a common core, like an all-encompassing vision or purpose, that pulls everyone together. I think that's where network analytics can help a lot in creating and sustaining the balance.