How to analyze and enhance participation in electronic networks of practice

This study proposes an exploratory methodology for analyzing participation in Electronic Networks of Practice, focusing on a network of 500 specialists in breast cancer treatment as a case study. The research addresses a critical gap in understanding how conversational dynamics influence participation in professional forums. Conversation measures and participation measures reported in the literature are identified and categorized, and new ones are suggested. This study by correlation analysis reveals three key participation triggers: initiator features, timing of initiation, and feedback, while also identifying non-associated variables like conversation topic and expression. Clustering categorizes conversations into four types, each exhibiting participation patterns and attributes. Social network analysis further reveals the network's structure and participants' interrelations. These findings provide a comprehensive understanding of participation in Electronic Networks of Practice and show the methodology's broader applicability in analyzing professional networks. The study's insights are vital for practitioners and theorists by offering a perspective on fostering knowledge sharing.