Comparing Collaboration and Social Networks
21 December 2009 Tweet The objectives and intensity of collaboration networks and social networks are almost entirely different. This key distinction leads to the manner and means of networking that that are indeed different. Sure enough, there is some overlap between the two types of networks but this is neither an imposing nor a driving fact.
Executives recoil when they hear the term “social media,” because images of Facebook and Twitter flash through their minds. Clarity in the strategic and operational vision for collaboration, based on a clear understanding collaboration networks – what they are and more importantly what they are not, along with how collaboration networks differ substantially from social networks – can lead to effective collaboration. And, we know that collaboration is a key driver today for most enterprises.
In a recent post, we proposed: The Four Ps of Effective Collaboration. We use this framework below to compare and contrast collaboration and social networks.
It is worth noting that objectives are different of each player – employee, employer, customer and partner - in the collaboration network. These objectives tend to be asymmetric between any two players; however, the tools/platforms used are typically symmetric. We will be addressing these issues, among others, in future posts.
Reader Comments (1)
Comments from LinkedIn Groups and Q&A on:
What are the similarities and differences between social networks and collaboration networks?
Social networking is different in objective and mechanics. The objective is fairly non-intense social messaging. Collaborative networks are for task and output completion and have a much more robust design around shared digital documents which in turn reflect revisions by participants and provide version control. The messaging function is emphasized less. These design structures could be combined if all the functions were deemed important, probably in a collaborative network, as most social networks have limited interest in "team" efforts on a "document".
By Barrett Peterson, C.P.A., Senior Financial Executive in Accounting, Finance and Treasury, IT, M&A, and Management Consulting Professional
Social networks offer one of the best ways of collaborating yet invented.
A key element of change management is adequate and clear communication, on a two-way basis, between those who wish to initiate change and those affected by it and/or who must implement it.
Communication about the desired objective of change, and constructive feedback from those affected is of critical importance in the success of any change management process.
Social media networks, which can be set up internally and totally in private from the outside world and obvious channels to use for communicating about change and for reaching a common consensus of what is required.
These networks make sure that everyone is "in the loop" and all "on the same page." They are highly effective in identifying any potential trouble spots or glitches. They get everyone pulling in the same direction.
By FRANK FEATHER, CEO, Strategist, Customized "Hot-Topic" Keynotes + In-House Seminars, 2020 Forecasts (30-yr track record)
Collaboration networks are business oriented networking tools that encourage group business interaction while social networks are used by businesses to communicate with consumers and potential customers in a public forum. Unfortunately, 14% of companies discipline their employees while 5% get fired for social networking offenses. Employees go on social networking sites with good intentions, but end up wasting time. The individual becomes the centre of the attention while then the network revolves around them.
By Ida Durling, Management/Executive
Social networking can lead to brilliant strategic alliances for real live collaborative projects. I recommend Linda Parkinson-Hardman as a leader in this field, and her new e-book "LinkedIn Made Easy" from http://whoselinked.com
By Tamara Essex, Helping charities achieve their objectives
Collaboration adds discipline around project management, document sharing etc that message oriented social networks don't yet have. I believe they will converge. Collaboration in multi-party business to business projects needs strong messaging as part of collaboration. I also see internal business "social" networks for community of interest discussion private to the enterprise.
By Michael Killian, Director of Next Gen Communication Devices & Applications
Social Networks are a derivative of Social Network Theory. As such they have structural elements (size, distribution, direct and indirect links, pathways, etc.) and qualitative elements (social support, emotional support, stress mediation, etc.) Collaborative Networks are functional and are better thought of as Resource Exchange Networks. Resources may be highly varied ranging from ideas to documents to barter exchanges. There is an overlap between the two but in working with them it is helpful to keep the two concepts and models distinct from one another.
By Sydney Engelberg, Hebrew University and CEO & Owner of Engelberg & Associates
Similarities: They are both networks, they both bring (remote) people together
Difference: One focuses on using new media to provide collaboration tools, one doesn't
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By Wallace Jackson, Multimedia Producer and i3D Programmer for Acrobat 3D PDF, JavaFX, Mobile & Virtual Worlds
Seems social networks are to inform the world as to who you are (e.g. Face Book), and connect with people of similar interests. Not sure where Twitter falls - a cross between chat and email? You Tube presents information almost along entertainment lines.
Collaboration networks seem to be focused on achieving tasks or work-like objectives, such as coordination, creating organized information libraries of documents and information, and results.
By Bob Sos, Retired from Union Bank of California