I recently presented at Oz-IA09 on Social network analysis: uncovering the secrets of information flow for our information architecture.

As an information architect and business analyst, my focus is on design of systems that are usable as the focus is on the end users and their needs. One of the tools i use when developing requirements and design specifications is social networking analsyis. I look at users within their social network. Formally the organsaition chart will tell you where person’s role fits within the organisation, however a richer understanding of the knowledge and information flow can be gained from looking at the informal social network.

Personas are a good way to help convey and shape understanding of users needs. Matt recently noted that Personas help to ensure  solutions are aligned with real end-users needs, goals, capabilities, attitudes and behaviour and act as a sounding board throughout the Agile process with features, information, content, and interaction-design gauged in relation to the question does it add value to them.

In the development of Personas, I start with a “skinny” personas that is developed during inital workshops with users and business owners. These skinny personas reflectthe motivations, goals and background of the user. Then i add to the personas as i uncover information through the social networking analysis (eg is the user a blocker, gatekeeper, key information source or trusted advisor) and build upon this personas as more information comes to light on eth users preference for communication styles and technographic preferences. The result – ZenAgile Personas

It is important to understand the user dynamics within a organsiation. From this information you can uncover the users preferences for communication, interaction with others and their technograhic segmentation in order to target the information architecture tools to use during the project as the tools shoudl match these user preferences. By developing these personas as you uncover more information during the project iterations, you can build a richer picture of the user.