Not available in 2017/18
MG450      Half Unit
Social Network Analysis and Strategies

This information is for the 2017/18 session.

Teacher responsible

Dr Daniela Lup NAB3.28

Availability

This course is available on the CEMS Exchange, MSc in Economy, Risk and Society , MSc in Human Resources and Organisations (Human Resource Management/CIPD), MSc in Human Resources and Organisations (International Employment Relations and Human Resource Management) and MSc in Human Resources and Organisations (Organisational Behaviour). This course is available with permission as an outside option to students on other programmes where regulations permit.

Course content

The main objective of this course is to introduce students to current research in the area of social network analysis and improve their understanding of how an effective network structure looks like. The course focuses on both theoretical and substantive themes within social network analysis. Substantive topics focus on everyday managerial situations and consulting projects such as: managing information and knowledge; managing one's career; managing a team; selecting a business partner; using virtual networks; social media.

 

In addition, the course aims to familiarise students with methodological issues connected with social network analysis (SNA). To this end, the students will learn to work with UCINET, a software designed for SNA. During the classes, the students will solve concrete managerial and consulting problems using SNA. Examples include (but are not limited to): understanding the social network of a manager, proposing a strategy for implementing organisational change; understanding the power and fallacies of online networks; visualising power networks in specific industries; marketing applications.

Teaching

15 hours of lectures and 15 hours of seminars in the LT.

Students on this course will have a reading week in Week 6, in line with departmental policy.

Formative coursework

Students will write a 500 word comment to a case, problem or article. Written feedback will be provided.

Indicative reading

Burt R. (2005). Brokerage and Closure: An Introduction to Social Capital. OUP

Gladwell, Malcom (2000) The tipping point: How little things can make a big difference. Little, Brown and Company

Kilduff, M. and W. Tsai (2003). Social Networks and Organizations. SAGE Publications.

Podolny, J. M. (2005) Social Signals. A sociological study of market competition. Princeton University Press

Wasserman, S. and K. Faust (1994). Social Network Analysis. Cambridge Univ. Press

Assessment

Project (35%, 3000 words), class participation (15%) and take home exam (50%) in the LT.

Key facts

Department: Management

Total students 2016/17: Unavailable

Average class size 2016/17: Unavailable

Controlled access 2016/17: No

Value: Half Unit

Guidelines for interpreting course guide information

Personal development skills

  • Team working
  • Problem solving
  • Communication
  • Specialist skills