Network Analysis Assignment

For this assignment, you need to pick an online supernode -- a website that networks people who share common interests. The website you pick may or may not relate to the blogging community you participate in; you may do the assignment with a partner or by yourself. Everyone will briefly present their analysis in class this Wednesday (11/14).

You have two objectives: (1) create a Prezi that visualizes or maps out the general flow of information across the supernode's network; (2) present your analysis (claims + evidence) to explain how the supernode creates and sustains such a thriving network.

Your Prezi could include screenshots, images from the Web, and "homemade" graphics. Essentially, you need to provide a visual overview of how the supernode's content is solicited, generated, arranged, and accessed -- as well as remixed, rated, shared, or responded to (if applicable).

Here are some questions to jump start your analysis:

• What interest(s) does the supernode cater to? 
• How does it build a community around those interests?
• Who generally uses and/or contributes content to the supernode's network?
• How does the supernode promote its network and attract new users and content?
• Why do they choose to submit their content to that network (instead of or in addition to other venues)?
• In what ways can users engage with content and communicate with other users of that network?
• What innovative features distinguish this supernode from similar websites that appear to host less thriving networks? 

*You may use your network analysis as this week's advocate post on your blog, provided that the supernode you examine relates to your blogging community.