Western and Eastern views on social networks

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to examine social networks from a Western and Eastern view.Design/methodology/approachThe paper uses case study methodology to gather evidence of how world pioneering firms from Asia and Europe measure and report their social connections from a Western perspective.FindingsIt is examined the basic indicators firms use to measure these networks and the major issues managers should consider when measuring and reporting these knowledge‐based resources. These indicators can be classified into four categories: customer description, customer portfolio, stakeholder capital and social networks. In total the study finds 29 relevant indicators for organizational social connections.Originality/valueThe paper provides great value both for academics and executives interested in the analysis of social networks both from a Western and Eastern view.