In the last class, we discussed closed and open networks at the individual level. Today's class is a continuation of the last class, with a focus on power and influence. Power refers to the ability to get things done -- particularly with the help or acquiescence of others. Influence refers to how our beliefs, attitudes, behaviors and decisions are affected by the qualities of our alters -- the people in our personal network. As part of this, we also consider groups, which often have norms that members had difficulty going against.
Readings
Managing Xerox's Multinational Development Center (HBS case in your packet of readings). The story of John Clendenin at Xerox.
Slides
Embeddedness.pdf
Power and influence.pdf
Recommended
Jones, C., Hesterly, W. S., & Borgatti, S. P. 1997. A general theory of network governance: Exchange conditions and social mechanisms. Academy of Management Review, 22(4): 911‑945. [pdf]