A virtual network should be a simple thing to map out, or not. I started by looking at other peoples maps and the technology that was used to create them. I like technology so I checked out some software to see how it would work. The goal of the map helps to dictate the detail required to create it. After many attempts to create a beautifully complex diagram I reverted to the KISS principle after reading Florian’s Blog. Microsoft Word and screenshot did a nice job.
The largest number of connections in my world are work related, industry and work connections, with a growing number of students. My co-instructor and I do visits every summer to maintain a connection with the RV industry and the students who have come though our courses. My strongest connections are with family, followed closely by work. The more I mapped the connections the more questions I had about how they interacted. The mapping process is a useful exercise in self reflection.
A deeper analysis could lead to a better understanding of current community and possibly where it would be good to meaningfully expand connections to gain access to people with shared interests and knowledge. The creation of a more resident and purposeful digital presence should be one way to expand my network and interact with other like minded individuals.