Measuring Integration through Social Network Analysis

Objective:  The N.C. Chronic Disease and Injury Section implemented a social network analysis in May, 2009 to: establish a baseline for collaboration; determine how information and resources flow through the chronic disease, health promotion and injury programs, and; learn the best opportunities to promote program integration.

Methods:  Social Network Analysis survey that included items addressing staff attitudes and knowledge about integration.

Results:  The Section is not as integrated as assumed.  Only 14 of a possible 110 collaborative relations were reported.  Staff also indicated that they understood the concept of integration, but many people were uncertain about its value.  A majority of staff indicated that they wanted to work more with members of other branches/programs.  N.C. is taking advantage of the willingness to work together by creating network analysis follow-up plans that encourage thoughtful collaboration.  The senior management and integration core team is using the results to engage groups identified as potential leaders of integration because of the type and extent of their network connections.  Additionally, several initiatives identified by staff have been implemented such as the creation of an intranet and a monthly integration newsletters.

Conclusion:  The quantitative nature of the social network analysis provided chronic disease, health promotion and injury staff and managers with evidence that collaboration was not as expected, even with integration efforts that spanned the prior two years.  The results of the social network analysis, along with the follow-up plans are changing the organizational culture of the Section.  Benefits from integration, such as shared staff and increased intervention coordination are already being seen.