Examining the Structure of Interactional Expertise in a Scientific Organization Using Multilevel Egocentric Network Analysis

• In Event: B.E.S.T.: Networks and Social Media

Abstract

Teams with diverse knowledge and expertise hold the potential to foster innovation, creativity, and productivity. At the same time, research shows that connection to diverse individuals is a necessary, but insufficient condition for realizing these benefits. Beyond connection, individuals must develop some understanding of their alters’ areas of expertise in order to integrate knowledge. While the importance of this “interactional expertise” (IE) has been shown qualitatively, few studies have examined the structural properties of this construct. We present an egocentric network analysis of scientists’ collaboration networks, exploring the prevalence of interdisciplinary ties and IE. Our results demonstrate that although members of this organization strive for cross-disciplinary collaboration, pressures toward homophily and siloed networks constrained connection to diverse alters. Further, lower tendencies to engage in dialogue with diverse alters hindered the development of IE. Our findings offer practical implications for organizations seeking to help individuals reap the benefits of interdisciplinarity.

Authors

• William C. Barley, U of Illinois

• Ly Dinh, U of Illinois Urbana Champaign

• Hallie McClung Workman

• Chengyu Fang, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign