Understanding IT-enabled social action networks: construction, sustainability, and user participation.
Innovative, humanitarian individuals and organizations are seeking to leverage the power of information technologies by constructing IT-enabled social action networks (ITSANs), networks of actors, connected via an IT platform, working together to improve social conditions and the lives of others. ITSANs are primarily web-based platforms that allow users to collaborate, share information, and pool resources to enhance efforts to address a common social mission. The goal of this research is to investigate how ITSANs are used to positively affect social needs by examining how these platforms are constructed and sustained. Also of interest are factors influencing user participation. To develop an in-depth understanding of ITSANs, this research proposes a qualitative multi-case study approach that seeks to understand ITSANs through the lived experiences of key actors.
University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA. shane.banks@memphis.edu
M Shane
MS
Banks
D019058:Community Networks / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D012107:Research Design; D012944:Social Support; D012945:Social Values