Unlocking Human Performance with Organizational Network Analysis

In this insightful episode, Laura Hamill, Chief Science Officer at Groov, discusses the transformative potential of Organizational Network Analysis (ONA) with Dr. Michael Arena, a leading expert on social capital and ONA. The conversation covers how ONA combines active and passive data with AI to derive actionable workplace insights, the origins and evolution of ONA, and its applications in driving organizational performance and innovation. Arena shares real-world examples from his tenure at General Motors and Cruise Automation, emphasizing the increased importance of social capital in a rapidly evolving workplace driven by AI and remote work. The episode concludes with a discussion on the future of work, highlighting the need for agility and the strategic use of social connections to maintain high performance.

00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Groov

01:42 Introducing Dr. Michael Arena

02:01 Dr. Arena's Background and Career Journey

04:14 The Origin of Organizational Network Analysis

05:27 Call Center Case Study

08:52 Defining Organizational Network Analysis (ONA)

11:49 Evolution and Impact of ONA

20:31 Innovation and Network Dynamics

24:10 Rapid Development in Self-Driving Technology

24:53 Organizational Networks During Change

25:20 Case Study: Mergers and Acquisitions

29:12 Active vs. Passive Data in ONA

33:14 Privacy Concerns and Data Usage

39:15 Future of Work and Social Capital

46:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts