By Michanda Myles, Network Project Manager, DC Social Justice Transformations Network/DC Bar Foundation
Imagine a network where every organization, regardless of size, has a voice and the resources to create real change. That’s the desire behind the DC Social Justice Transformations Network (DCSJTN).
As the Network Project Manager, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful those connections can be. We’re all connected at our core, and when individuals and organizations find common ground and collaborate, it creates a ripple effect that strengthens the entire network. But these connections aren’t always obvious. In this case, we need tools to help uncover where we are most connected and to show where hidden pockets of isolation can hinder progress and prevent us from reaching our full potential.
Networks grow at the speed of trust, and that growth accelerates when everyone is connected and included. This post explores how social network analysis (SNA) can help us map our network, illuminate hidden connections, foster inclusivity, and empower organizations to build stronger, more connected communities.
Shining a Light on Isolation
Community power flourishes through inclusion. DCSJTN is comprised of various-sized organizations and individuals from all sectors—nonprofit, public, and private. However, it’s the smaller organizations that often face exclusion due to limited capacity and resources. This isolation, at times, can restrict their access to information, funding opportunities, and collaborative partnerships. By using an SNA, which produces a network map, we can visually identify these isolated organizations and create strategies to integrate them into the broader community.
It is essential to make intentional efforts to ensure that every organization—every node in our network—is connected. Our human default is to be connected, and that is equally important for the organizations we make up. No organization should be on an island alone despite its size. Our networks are only as strong as the least connected.
A PARTNER GIS map of the D.C. Social Justice Transformations Network in Washington D.C. (2022).
Building Trust: The Foundation of a Strong Network
Trust is the foundation of any thriving community. Social network analysis provides valuable insights into the dynamics that can impact the vitality of networks. They unveil the trust factor, identifying:
- Trusted organizations and individuals: Who are the key players that others rely on for information and guidance?
- Trust gaps: Where are the areas of mistrust or lack of connection that need to be addressed?
By understanding these dynamics, we are developing targeted strategies that can help foster trust and strengthen relationships. Remember, the primary goal of SNAs is not just to collect data; it’s to initiate conversations, weave members, and build connections. Our aim is to “isolate the isolation” and ensure that all nodes in the network are connected.
Focusing our SNA efforts on organizations is just one way to provide a broader understanding of the network, which can reveal potential areas for collaboration. The beauty of conducting an SNA is that you have the power and ability to use the information to help inform decision-making and curate goals and priorities for focus.
Beyond Mapping: Creating Space for Connection
Social network analysis also provides a framework for assessing network health and identifying opportunities for growth. Within the DCSJTN, we’ve learned that creating space for intentional connections is crucial for building relationships and establishing trust. As a network, we are achieving this by:
- Convenings: Designing events and workshops that create space for connection and collaboration.
- Knowledge Sharing: Facilitating the sharing of knowledge and resources among organizations.
- Network Leadership: The Network Action Team was created to help establish and facilitate a clear and vibrant strategic direction, coordinate network activities, and serve as ambassadors to promote the network.
By strategically leveraging SNA insights and fostering connections, we have created a more inclusive and engaged community. Community engagement isn’t just a feel-good concept; it’s essential for collective success. Social network analysis is a powerful tool that helps us move beyond buzzwords to create meaningful and thoughtful connections.
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Using SNA to Build Trust and Connections
To facilitate our SNA efforts, we utilized Visible Network Labs’ comprehensive PARTNER CPRM platform. This platform enables us to map our network and analyze the data, empowering our team to make informed decisions based on the information provided by our network members.
Ultimately, our goal is to build a stronger, more connected network where every voice is heard, and every organization has the opportunity to contribute and thrive. The network mappings that are produced as a result of the SNA have been instrumental in providing a roadmap to “connect the dots” within the DCSJTN! As a network, we look forward to continuing to ensure we use SNA data to make the best decisions for our network health and to maximize all connections.
Learn more about DCSJTN and how to get involved by visiting our website at https://www.dcbarfoundation.org/dc-social-justice-transformations-network.
Michanda is an esteemed network connector and builder, and she currently serves as network project manager at the DC Bar Foundation. She is the driving force behind developing the Foundation’s networks, which includes relationship building and ensuring the facilitation of resources is both seamless and impactful. Her responsibilities include fostering the growth and development of both existing and emerging networks, with a clear focus on transforming civil legal aid. Her goal, in alignment with DCBF’s mission, is to guarantee that every DC resident has access to a fair and equitable legal experience.
Her deep passion for her work is rooted in the belief that there should be equitable and accessible legal services and representation for all in need. This commitment to social equity is reflected in every aspect of her work, making her a vital member of the DCBF team.
Michanda holds a B.S. in Public Relations from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University and a Master's in Business Administration from Troy State University, Troy, Alabama (Atlanta Campus). A native of Augusta, GA, Michanda now calls Washington, DC, her home, where she immerses herself in the city’s vibrant outdoors scene, indulges in cooking and trying new recipes, and engages in various extracurricular activities.
Michanda leads an active personal life. She is an avid triathlete, bringing the same level
of dedication and perseverance to her sporting endeavors as she does to her professional role. Michanda also hosts a podcast, "Tri Beginner's Luck," where she shares insights and experiences from athletes' first-time triathlon stories and serves as an announcer for endurance races, further showcasing her versatility and commitment to her passions.
