Networks Connect, Communities Care

One of this week's main topics is on Networks and Communities, and it has been extremely interesting for me as I delve deeper to look at the definitions and differences, and trying to draw out some of my personal experiences for examples. On first thought, "Networks" seem so much bigger than "Communities" in terms of sheer sizes. Networks to me are webs of connections, directories consisting of multiple nodes and links that help facilitates personal interactions and relationships. Communities on the other hand, are relatively smaller groups, comprising of people who are more connected at a personal level, sharing a common identity, and being involved and passionate for a common purpose. Based on this perspective, one can simply understand that networks connect, while communities care. Networks are collections of human resources, while communities are connections of human beings. Perhaps the graphics below can give you a better idea of what I mean. 

     

                                                         NETWORKS                                            COMMUNITIES
                               
A simple example of a network that I can illustrate would be the military organization that I work in; a huge web of personnel doing different jobs and serving in different capacities but with a common purpose. The people in this network may not know each other very well personally, but when the need arises for whatever (operational) reasons, contacts and linkages can be easily established through this network. Operating and thriving within this huge network are communities; smaller different groups of personnel who represent a more collective intention and purpose. For example, Infantry branch of Army is a community. The pilots of the Air Force has their own community. The logistics and engineering groups have their own communities. As a community, the people within communicate at a deeper level, and seek to collaborate more closely.

What I have discussed so far are offline examples of networks and communities. What about the networks and communities in the online spaces? I found this interesting graphics online which may provide some clues to what we need to know:

This illustration seems to suggest that (social) networks and communities that we can find in the online space are fundamentally different based on the "glue" that holds them together. For example, Facebook and LinkIn operate largely by connecting their members based on past, present and future relationships, while the social media tools on the right hand side operate as communities that thrive on shared interest that brings people together. What do you think of this delineation between networks and communities?

And also as evident from the above graphics, there seems to be an untapped space in the middle of the line; so do you think there is a middle ground where networks and communities on social media can co-exist as one to provide more value for consumers like us?