I explore how social network analysis is applied through an interview with InFlow's creators. For my own SNA projects, I have used a combination of Perl scripts and Excel rather than dedicated software.
I highlight an excellent introductory guide to social network analysis from Semantic Studios. It explores how mapping relationships between people and organizations reveals hidden structures in information architecture and digital communities.
I watched The Social Network and was surprised by how much I enjoyed it. I appreciated the realistic Perl code and fast-paced dialogue, ultimately finding personal connections to Mark Zuckerberg's character despite my initial jealousy.
I prefer Perl over Python for data processing, relying on it for over a decade to handle large datasets where Access and SPSS failed. Using Perl with Excel and CPAN provides all the data analysis power I need.
Use network-tools.com to trace data paths, identify computer locations, and look up WHOIS registration details. The site provides web-based utilities for traceroute, DNS lookups, and network diagnostics to see exactly how information travels across the internet.
I found that the Internet operates as a scale-free network, characterized by a few highly connected hubs and many poorly connected nodes. This topological structure explains why the network is robust against random failures but vulnerable to targeted attacks.
Comments
Dhar30 Oct 2005 6:10 am:
Anand, do you know of any freely available Social Network Analysis tool?
S Anand31 Oct 2005 6:16 pm:
Afraid not. I’ve only done this twice in projects, and I just used Excel and Perl both times.
Comments