Social network analysis is an investigation of the relationships within an environment. They create an easy-to-understand visual representation of a social structure based on the principles of graph theory. Social networking diagrams can be used for a number of situations, including:

- Relationships within a residential neighborhood

- Data sharing among various computer networks in an organization

- Connections between sales, operations, and marketing departments in a company

The goal of a social network analysis example is to more fully and accurately understand the relationship dynamics of a community or environment. Visual elements such as nodes and arrows emphasize the connections that exist within or between groups. Understanding the nature of every interactionleads to smoother communication, information sharing, and delegation within complex networks.

Start with a social network map template and add nodes in different colors representing your key groups. For example, if you were to depict the relationships in your life, your nodes might be: family, friends, colleagues, and neighbors. Then, add more nodes to your social network diagram template connected to one of these key groups. These illustrate the relationships within each group. Lastly, a social network graph example often features connections between the various groups. Draw connecting arrows to show the overlap between your key nodes—for example, if a colleague is also a neighborhood friend.

Ready to get started? Our customizable templates help you sketch out a social network map template that’s uniquely you.