networks and network weaving

How we went about the project: 

LLC contracted with Ken Vance Borland, Executive Director of the Conservation Planning Institute because of his experience with SNA software and mapping.  He also understands the ‘so what’ of producing maps which is to help people in the network learn how to use the information provided in the maps to make their network stronger.  Together we developed a survey that went out to the first four cohorts. An advisory group of Health Leadership Fellows tested the survey, gave us feedback on the questions and helped mobilize other fellows from their cohort to complete the survey. 

The fellows taking the survey were provided the names of everyone taking the survey and asked to check names of other fellows with whom they had developed a new relationship, shared resources and information and collaborated with on health related projects.   In addition, survey respondents were asked a number of demographic questions about where they worked, their cohort, the issues they focused on in their work, and their professions.  These questions made it possible not only to produce maps of who was collaborating but to also see how people were connected across their regions or their cohorts.  To get good and reliable data from an SNA it’s important to have at least a 75% participation rate.  The Health Leadership Fellows program has a very impressive 89% response rate.