Dynamic analysis of the association between network structures and the performance of knowledge workers using information technologies

学者和实践者都确信，演员在组织内的社交网络中的嵌入程度会影响他或她的表现。然而，研究这种关系的研究结果是相互矛盾的。因此，可以支持管理者根据组织中的社交网络进行决策的工具屈指可数。该项目的主要目标是为决策者配备一套有效管理组织内社交网络的工具，以提高生产率。为了实现这一目标，必须澄清相互矛盾的研究结果。特别是，一些相互矛盾的结果可能归因于数据收集的方法和对时间效应的忽视。我们的目标是通过使用现代信息技术来避免传统数据收集方法的一些缺点(如社会期望偏差、记忆效应或山楂效应)。此外，我们通过使用最近开发的模型测试的统计方法来考虑时间效应，该方法允许在使用纵向网络数据时进行因果关系声明。利用这些方法，我们还考虑了社会网络与嵌入参与者的绩效之间的相互依赖关系。所取得的成果将作为决策支持系统编制，以便今后能够有效地管理各组织内的社交网络。

Scholars and practitioners alike are convinced that an actor's embeddedness in a social network within an organization influences his or her performance. However, the results of studies that examine this relationship are conflicting. Consequently, there are only a few tools available that can support managers' decision making according to social networks in organizations. The main goal of this project is to equip decision makers with a tool set for an effective management of social networks within organizations in order to enhance productivity. To achieve this goal, the conflicting study results have to be clarified. Particularly, some of the conflicting results might be attributed to the method of data collection and the neglect of temporal effects. We aim to avoid some of the shortcomings of conventional data collection methods (e.g. social desirability bias, memory effects or the Hawthorn effect) by employing modern information technologies. Furthermore, we consider temporal effects by employing recently developed statistical methods for model tests that allow for causality statements when using longitudinal network data. Using these methods we also consider the mutual dependence of social network and performance of the embedded actors. The results gained will be prepared as a Decision Support System, so that in the future it will be possible to effectively manage social networks within organizations.