Definitions of Network

Network

• A chain of radio or television stations with shared or coordinated programming
• A system of computers interconnected so as to share information
• A complex, interconnected group of system (i.e. spy network)
• (verb) to interact with others for mutual assistance or support
• (verb) to interact with business colleagues or potential parties (business networking)
• (verb) to interact with others sharing a common interest (social networking)

Network is a term with increasing use today. It covers historical meanings such as "network news" more recent meanings "terrorist networks" and popular meanings such as "business networking" or "networking for a job". In more formal terms, Networks are interconnected nodes, the study of networks is the study of these systems, generally over time. It covers the mapping and identification of the system of interconnected elements, the study of how this interaction occurs or can occur (i.e. the links and "using" them). It also covers how such systems change over time and what 'shapes' are formed, as well as what other properties can be discovered (such as not just that "a path exists" but studying how paths are found and "used")

For MeshForum networks mean many things. Some attendees will come from a media background, where the "nodes" are various stations, where the interaction is both with in the system of stations and resources, and within the complex and changing "media" world - radio, TV, cable, and now the Internet as a news and entertainment option. Others will come from the technical side of "networks" where they are experts in the connecting of many devices and the rapid exchange of information across those devices - in some case "ip" devices (Cisco routers), in other cases telephone calls.

Still others attendees will focus on the study of social networks - which range from actors in Hollywood to the staff of a large firm such as IBM.

Networks can and are studied in many other contexts - supply chains, political organizing, distributed sales channels, franchises, fans of a show or musical act, etc.

Networks are also "who you know", the famous phrase "old boy's club" describes one very pervasive network within the business world. Clubs in general are networks, both large and small.