Application of Reliability Methods to Social Networks

作者：Sven Guzman Mauricio; Pohl Edward A; Schneider Kellie; Rainwater Chase

来源：Military Operations Research, 2012, 17(4): 51-58.

DOI：10.5711/1082598317451

In this study, we propose to analyze clandestine networks, modeled as multistate network flow problems, using reliability measures. First, we consider a k-out-of-n system structure to simplify a notional network. Then, we model the network as a capacitated flow problem in which influence is considered a multistate commodity that flows through the system. The multiple states of influence are used to quantify the extent to which influence is passed between members of an organization. We quantify the reliability of the network as the probability that a minimum level of influence, initiated from a set of known, accessible actors, reaches an intended target. Using this model formulation, we can compute an exact value for the overall network reliability Finally, we provide an illustrative example to demonstrate our methodology.

• 出版日期2012