The role of social networks in relation to internal communications

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.25029/od.2018.136.15

Keywords:

Internal Communication, social network, vertical communication, horizontal communication, organizational change

Abstract

 

We consider the introduction of social networks in internal communications, analysing their use for formal interaction and task performance. This is a case study of a multinational company that created an internal social network and is facing resistance to adoption. We analysed responses to the annual staff survey and primary data collected through direct observation. The goal of the analysis was to understand the degree of social network penetration in the organisation, to gauge its perceived importance and to identify factors influencing implementation. We have proposed some guidelines on managing organisational change processes.

 

Author Biographies

Teresa Ruão, Universidade do Minho (Portugal)

Researcher at the Center for Studies in Communication and Society, since its foundation in 2001. PhD in Communication Sciences at the University of Minho, 2008.

Ana Isabel Lopes, Universidade do Minho (Portugal)

Communication and Society Studies Center, University of Minho. PhD student in Applied Economics at the University of Antwerp (Belgium), in the Marketing Department. Currently studying the influence of online reviews on consumer behavior.

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Published

2017-09-01

How to Cite

Ruão, T., & Lopes, A. I. (2017). The role of social networks in relation to internal communications. Obra Digital, (15), 51–66. https://doi.org/10.25029/od.2018.136.15