People networks permeate the modern organization. It is now widely recognized that many informal networks thread through the formal structure, networks based on friendship, mutual support, interdependent exchanges, and job referral. Networks are not new, but their newly discovered importance coupled with the new technology requires that we learn how successful distributed groups function. What were once auxillary forms of organizational structure are now becoming indispensable ones, increasingly responsible for core operations and meeting strategic goals. The network paradigm is a product of its time.
Networks connect people as well as devices.
People networks use technology networks. When organizations are viewed in terms of their networks of work, their computer networks can be designed to support them. By regarding both organization and technology as networks, we can bridge these two worlds, using a common language. This makes possible mutual and parallel development of both people and computer networks.