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8

THE ROLE OF SOCIAL

NETWORKS AND

BOUNDARY-SPANNERS

Chapter Outline

>> Learning Outcomes >> Online Communities
>> Introduction >> Conclusions
>> Networks as Channels >> Case Study 8.2: Midlands Hospital
>> Networks as Communities (NHS Trust)
>> Case Study 8.1: KIN Research Study >> Summary of Key Learning Points
of Managed Communities

Learning Outcomes
At the end of this chapter you should be able to:
➡ Evaluate the contribution of networks and networking to knowledge work.
➡ Discuss the role of different types of social network in enabling and constraining
knowledge flows.
➡ Assess the role of boundary spanners in connecting localized networks.
➡ Identify different types of community relevant to knowledge work and analyse
their impact on knowledge sharing between groups.
➡ Discuss the positive and negative effects of social networks on change and innova-
tion in organizations.

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