Organizational Network Analysis: MEASURE Evaluation's Experience 2010-2014

Author(s): Reynolds HW, Curran J, Thomas JC

Year: 2014

Abstract:

Health care organizations usually provide a narrow range of services that address a specific health need or the focus of a particular funding source. For many organizations, it is too costly or complex to provide all the health services necessary to address the full range of their clients’ needs. However, when an organization can see that it is part of a network of organizations providing the full range of services, and when it learns to collaborate within that network, it can gain access to and make use of information, skill sets, commodities, materials, and resources better than it can as a solitary organization. From a client’s perspective, the network is better able to meet his or her health needs. Well-coordinated networks can result in more synergies, less duplication, saved expenses, more thorough provision of services, and better health outcomes.

Research on organizational networks in health systems was initially conducted in developed countries. At MEASURE Evaluation, we sought to extend the application by creating a practical organizational network analysis (ONA) approach for resource-poor settings. The purpose of this document is to share that approach, the related tools, and insights from implementing ONA in three countries: Ethiopia, Thailand, and Malawi.