How it works

Informal relationships that operate outside the formal hierarchy can strongly influence how work gets done and value is created. These connections develop through information sharing, process handoffs, cross-functional projects, learning activities, and collaboration across teams, functions, and operating units. Employees may also continue to rely on colleagues who have transferred or been promoted because of their knowledge and experience with specific challenges.

Organizational network analysis (ONA) examines how information, expertise, influence, and support flow through these informal relationships, independent of formal reporting lines. It can reveal key connectors, silos, bottlenecks, dependencies, and collaboration patterns that are not visible in an organization chart. These insights can inform how individuals, teams, and business units are organized to improve coordination, knowledge sharing, work processes, and outcomes.

looks_oneIdentify members of the network