What is a Social Capital Map?

A social capital map uses business network analysis techniques to elicit the capacity of an organisation to effectively engage in its activities. It provides the ability to examine quantitatively, qualitatively, and graphically the linkages between nodes, where nodes are individuals. A connection between two or more nodes means there is some sort of relationship and information is passed between them. Social capital maps provide a powerful way to understand how work is actually done in an organisation.

A Social Capital Map reveals the informal and the formal networks of an organisation using the individual as the unit of analysis. It allows the networks to be evaluated, measured and supported. Specifically a social capital map can be used to:

• Assess the state of social capital by identifying individual trust, support, and advice networks. 
• Assess the state of social capital by identifying individuals who have central roles, such as key knowledge brokers. 
• Support social capital by identifying potential partnerships and connecting people to people to ensure effective knowledge creation and sharing. 
• Improve decision making in senior leadership and middle-management networks by identifying and correcting structural holes in personal networks.

How is Social Capital Mapping Done?

The broad generic process is as follows.

Determine the Questions. Two typical question statements are:

• In the workplace who do you go to for information that helps you solve problems or capitalise on opportunities?
• In the workplace who do you go to for career advice or other developmental feedback that helps you be more effective in my work?

Collect the Data. Typically a series of questions are asked using a survey technique. Data collection can also be done using data-mining techniques. For example intra-departmental e-mail traffic could be mined.

Import the Data into a Visualisation Tool. HolisTech® uses one or more of four propriety visualisation tools depending on the requirement. Each tool has specific uses and limitations.

Analyse the Data. In addition to the visualisation tools HolisTech® uses several analysis tools.

Act on the Data. Acting on the data is up to you! Please e-mail or ring us if you want to know more.