Monitoring the composition and evolution of the research networks of the CGIAR research program on roots, tubers and bananas (RTB)

This Brief provides an example of how Social Network Analysis (SNA) can be used, in the context of agricultural research.

The authors describe what SNA is, and how it was applied, step by step. They also present the findings of a particular network analysis, so readers can understand what types of information a SNA can generate, its pros and cons. In this example, SNA is used as a monitoring mechanism to study the evolution of a research network, and consequently, the evolution of the types of research being conducted.

Excerpt

Several tools have been developed in the last three decades to manage not-for-profit research activities. Most of these tools have focused on research outputs or outcomes, while few have analysed the processes of research and innovation to identify emerging problems and opportunities during the course of a project. This brief presents a cost-effective methodology that can be used to monitor changes in research networks. Since these networks change as the research projects mature (Kratzer,Gemuenden and Lettl, 2008), tracking the network structure provides information on the nature and evolution of research activities.

Contents

  • Introduction
  • Methods: Analysis of research networks
  • Types of research collaborations reported
  • The structure of the research networks
  • Conclusions
  • Lessons learned

Sources

Ekboir, J., Canto, G.B. and Sette, C. (2013). Monitoring the composition and evolution of the research networks of the CGIAR Research Program on Roots, Tubers and Bananas (RTB). ILAC Brief No. 27. Rome, Institutional Learning and Change (ILAC) Initiative

Ekboir, J., Canto, G.B. and Sette, C. (2013). Monitoring the composition and evolution of the research networks of the CGIAR Research Program on Roots, Tubers and Bananas (RTB). Series on Monitoring Research Networks No. 01. Rome, Institutional Learning and Change (ILAC) Initiative