The Latest Word on Network Science
by Jim Ware
I’ve said it many times, and I’m hardly the only one: the future of work is all about networks – multiple connections (some loose, some tight) across thousands (no, millions) of individuals and organizations.
Now word comes from our friend and colleague Jeff Stamps of a special program on the Discovery Science Channel this evening, Sunday, February 15, at 9 PM (ET/PT). It’s called “Connected: The Real Matrix.” And it promises to be both fascinating and provocative.
Jeff has written a great preview of the program here, on the Netage.com blog. Here’s a quick excerpt:
What’s the “new” in the “new network science?” Two things: an unexpected discovery and a resolution to an old problem. [Albert Lazlo] Barabasi led the team that discovered “scale-free networks,” non-random configurations with sparse but many-linked “hubs” that turn out to be key nodes in networks. With Steven Strogatz, [Duncan] Watts finally solved the “six-degrees of separation” conundrum by showing how a few “shortcuts” could dramatically decrease average communication distance.
I know it sounds a bit obtuse, but the program should feature loads of real-world examples that will help us all understand why networks are such an important part of our lives, both now and in the future.
By the way, Jeff Stamps is also the creator of the OrgScope tool I mentioned here last month (“Figuring out the Federal Government”). It’s a powerful analytic tool for sorting out the “real” relationships that make organizations work.
Finally, here’s a preview/promo of the program, from YouTube:
Note that the program will also be repeated on Monday, February 16, at 12:00 AM, and on Tuesday, February 17, at 4 AM (again, ET and PT). Maybe not the greatest times, but you can always set your trusty DVR to pick it up for you.
(Note: this note is cross-posted from my own blog, The Future of Work blog, at this link.)
Thought...
