Social Network Analysis for Program Implementation

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0131712
• Publication Date: 2015-06-25T18:28:43Z
• Authors: Thomas W. Valente; Lawrence A. Palinkas; Sara Czaja; Kar-Hai Chu; C. Hendricks Brown
• Keywords: Social Network Analysis; Social network (sociolinguistics); Network Analysis

This paper introduces the use of social network analysis theory and tools for implementation research. The perspective is useful understanding, monitoring, influencing, or evaluating process when programs, policies, practices, principles are designed scaled up adapted to different settings. We briefly describe common barriers success relate them networks stakeholders. introduce a few simple measures commonly used in discuss how these can be program implementation. Using four stage model (exploration, adoption, implementation, sustainment) proposed by Aarons colleagues [1] our experience developing multi-sector partnerships involving community leaders, organizations, practitioners, researchers, we show at each monitor, intervene, improve process. Examples provided illustrate concepts. conclude with expected benefits challenges associated this approach.