Tracking disease using small world network theory and matrix and node-link graphics

When illustrated in textual or graphical form, the intricacies of the connections between weak and strong ties between such entities as endangered species in an ecosystem or people who might be carrying an infectious disease have proven difficult to convey. Technical communicators, both students and practitioners, can more ably explain technical concepts by 1) understanding the dynamics of small world network theory, and 2) visually revealing the insights they afford by combining both simple matrix and node-link representations that are readable and accurate. Accordingly, this presentation will include a brief primer on strong and weak ties and visuals and several case studies to demonstrate how they can be concretely realized.