Mapping the Great Beyond: Identifying Meaningful Networks in

MAPPING THE GREAT BEYOND 11
place colleagues, community of practice or online social network,
these are all networks in the sense of being a series of connections or
relationships. As a result, whether adopting a network or hierarchical
approach, understanding the nature of the networks with which a
Public Diplomacy organization interacts can ensure behavior in line
with the type of network. In addition, it has the potential to support
the development of better targeted initiatives which utilize to a
greater extent the networks with which an organization interacts.
The following sections aim to identify some of the potential
perspectives which could allow an organization to engage
meaningful networks. The first section considers perspectives
which could empower individuals making tactical decisions in
their day-to-day interaction with different networks. Section two
considers perspectives on understanding networks for developing
organizational strategy and, finally, section three begins to explore
the potential of network analysis as a means to evaluate Public
Diplomacy initiatives.