Linked in: Social network analysis as a promising practice in assessing organizational equity and diversity policies

Abstract

This paper argues for the methodological application of social network analysis (SNA), as an evaluation based approach in assessing organizational diversity and equity. Using concrete practice examples from a study exploring professional networks of settlement service providers, it walks the reader through the application of SNA measures to assess employment equity efforts and the distribution of organizational influence. Practice informed research implications and ethical concerns about organizational research are also discussed.