RUcore Resource Object
RUcore Resource Object
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TitleNetwork rebuilding after disaster
NameChenwning, Lisa (author), Doerfel, Marya L (chair), Katz, James (internal member), Aakhus, Mark (internal member), Harrison, Tyler R (outside member), Rutgers University, Graduate School - New Brunswick,
Degree Date2009
Date Created2009
SubjectCommunication, Information and Library Studies,
Business networks,
Communication in industrial relations,
Information theory
DescriptionThis dissertation develops a communication theory of transitional space. The focus of this theory is on how business leaders use communication to rebuild interorganizational networks following a large-scale disruption. The premise of a communication theory of transitional space is that a large-scale disruption creates a space in which conditions are neither what they were before the disruption nor where they need to be in order for business to resume with a sense of normalcy. The way business leaders communicate in this space leads to the creation of transitional networks, or networks that enable business leaders to navigate this space. Propositions are tested in the field and with an online survey of New Orleans’ business and organizational leaders whose businesses and professional networks, and physical environments, were affected by Hurricane Katrina. The dissertation begins by establishing crisis as a context for transitional space. Next, an examination of social network theory and constitutive communication using Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) provide the theoretical framework for the study. Data were analyzed using a combination of grounded theory and social network analysis. Patterns of communication and social structure emerged that reflect a two-stage transitional space, which is marked by an altered macro-structure and dysfunctional communication infrastructure. Resource exchange and reconnecting with previous network members drives initial communication in a transitional space. This communication is facilitated by an alternative communication infrastructure developed by business leaders through the use of ICTs. Findings from this study further understanding of the lifecycle of networks by providing a longitudinal view of network development, as well as further network research in areas such as disaster recovery and organizational crisis. Theoretical implications include an emphasis on the importance of drawing a distinction between interaction and communication in social networks, as well as a theoretical context for the interplay of communication and structure following a disaster. The importance of ICTs in repairing communication infrastructures, as well as the importance of “helping” organizations in facilitating trust and collective action, both have theoretical and applied implications for social networks and disaster recovery.
NotePh.D.
NoteIncludes abstract
NoteVita
NoteIncludes bibliographical references
Noteby Lisa Volk Chewning
Genretheses
Persistent URLhttp://hdl.rutgers.edu/1782.1/rucore10001600001.ETD.000054807
Languageeng
CollectionGraduate School - New Brunswick Electronic Theses and Dissertations
Organization NameRutgers, The State University of New Jersey
RightsThe author owns the copyright to this work.