TNCT ETA

1. Trends (Megatrends)

1. Definition of a Trend

• A trend is a general direction in which something is developing or changing. 

• It represents long-term movements or patterns that influence society, culture, technology, or behavior over a sustained period. 

• Trends have a lasting impact and often shape industries or lifestyles.

Key Characteristics of a Trend:

• Long-term relevance

• Influences societal norms, behavior, or industries

• Driven by deeper social, economic, or technological factors

2. Difference Between a Trend and a Fad

A fad is a short-lived enthusiasm or craze that gains popularity quickly but fades just as fast.

2. Networks

Definition of Network

• Network: A system or group of interconnected people or things.

  • Example: A trade network.

  • Synonyms: System, complex, nexus, web, webwork.

  • Example Usage: A network of friends.

Local Networks

What is a Local Network?

• Definition: A local network refers to a group of people or entities that are closely connected within a particular region or community. These networks are often built around personal relationships and interactions that occur within a specific geographic area.

• Gathering of People = Network Interactions: Personal relations form the foundation of local networks, where individuals interact with family, friends, and peers. These networks serve as social structures in which people participate regularly.

Components of a Local Network

1. Nodes: These are any entities within the network. In a local network, nodes could be individuals, groups, organizations, or even systems.
   
   

2. Tie: Refers to the relationships or interactions between two nodes in the network. The strength and nature of the tie often depend on factors such as time and the depth of the interaction.
   
   

3. Flow: This is what passes through the ties, such as information, resources, support, or influence. In a local network, the flow often involves communication, assistance, or emotional support among members.
   
   

Network Analysis in Local Networks

1. Density:

   • This refers to the number of connections between and among actors (people or entities) within the local network.

   • Local networks are often denser in small communities where relationships are frequent, and most people are connected to each other in multiple ways.
     
     

2. Hierarchy:

   • Ties within a local network can be either weak or strong, depending on the amount of time spent interacting and the level of reciprocation between the nodes.

   • In close-knit communities, there is usually a hierarchy where stronger ties are formed through repeated interactions and mutual support, such as between family members or close friends.
     
     

3. Complexity:

   • This refers to the range of interests or needs served by a link between nodes. In a local network, the ties often serve multiple functions such as social support, work collaborations, and emotional bonding.

   • The complexity increases as the local network serves more roles, like organizing events, providing professional advice, or offering personal assistance.
     
     

4. Embeddedness:

   • Networks within a local network are often deeply embedded in the personal lives of members. These networks are rooted in core social structures like family, friends, and acquaintances.

   • For example, local networks tend to be formed around shared histories, such as growing up in the same neighborhood or attending the same school, which strengthens personal ties.
     
     

5. Interdependence:

   • Local networks foster interdependence, where the members depend on each other for social, emotional, and sometimes economic benefits. This interdependence facilitates cooperation and builds social capital necessary for the network's progress.

   • As members help one another, it generates a sense of mutual benefit, leading to greater trust and collaboration, which in turn enhances the overall functioning of the network or community.

Global Network

• Global Networks: "A global network is the entire network that captures every single user. A local network is a subset of users clustered around a common modality." – Anais Concepcion.

• Trademark: Symbol of world evolution in the early 21st century.

• Characteristics:

  • Dynamic and flexible connections between individuals, groups, or organizations across the world.

  • Cross-border: Members are often in different locations and always moving.

Types of Global Networks

1. Technical Global Network

   • Originates from telecommunications systems.

   • Utilizes a variety of satellite, cable, and wireless technologies.
     
     

2. Interpersonal Global Network

   • Includes cross-border groups such as migrants, aid workers, social workers, professionals exchanging ideas, and others involved in advocacy work.
     
     

   • Subcategories of Interpersonal Networks:

     • Advocacy Networks

       • Actors share particular values, common discourse, and dense exchanges of information and services.

       • Example: Greenpeace, which advocates for environmental protection and climate change action.

     • Business, Trading, and Commercial Networks

       • Composed of transnational economic and business networks.

       • Example: Chamber of Commerce.

     • Friendship Networks

       • Focuses on social communication patterns, interpersonal bonding, and social support.

       • Example: Rotaract Clubs International, fostering global social support.

     • Information Networks

       • Networks primarily focused on communication.

       • Example: Broadcast media outlets.

     • Policy Networks

       • Non-hierarchical and interdependent relations among various actors.

       • Committed to policy changes and resource exchange.

       • Example: World Commission on Dams, Global Water Partnership.
         
         
         
         

3. Imperial Global Networks

   • Focus on spatial connections between metropoles (main cities) and their colonies, usually studied by historians.

   • Example: Historical Associations.
     
     

4. Knowledge/Intellectual Global Networks

   • Aims to share knowledge and connect to policy development.

   • Example: Research Associations focused on knowledge transmission.
     
     

5. Migrant Global Networks

   • Cross-border networks involving family, ethnic, or religious connections.

   • Example: UN Network on Migration.
     
     

6. Professional Global Networks

   • Focuses on promoting professionals’ mental and academic interests globally.
     
     

7. Religious Global Networks

   • Global networks of world religions promoting doctrinal teachings.

   • Example: Various religious organizations promoting global faith values.
     
     

8. Terrorist Global Networks

   • Networks that emerged post-9/11 and resemble multinational companies and organized crime structures.

   • Example: Al Qaeda, ISIS.
     
     

9. Women’s Global Networks

   • Rooted in the history of the feminist movement and viewed globally.

   • Example: Various women’s rights organizations.

Globalization

• Definition: The process of interaction and integration among people, companies, and governments from different nations.

• Key Drivers:

  • International trade and investment.

  • Information technology (e.g., internet, telecommunications).

• Effects:

  • Companies have greater access to global markets.

  • Consumers enjoy broader access to different varieties of goods and services.

  • Affects political, economic, and social systems across countries.

ICT

• ICT Definition: Refers to all devices, networking components, applications, and systems that facilitate interaction with the digital world. It includes data, internet access, cloud computing, software, hardware, transactions, and communications technology.

• Scope: ICT is broader than IT (Information Technology) and involves a combination of various digital technologies.

• Revolutionizing Life: ICT has significantly transformed communication, work, education, and daily life.

2. Impact on Society

• Online Integration: Everything is moving online, from social media to e-commerce, mobile communication, and cloud computing.

• Mobile Revolution: The spread of mobile phones and internet infrastructure has drastically impacted global trade, development, and communication.

• Globalized Economy: In the knowledge-based world, ICT tools are crucial for job creation, economic growth, and participation in the global economy.

3. ICT's Role in Economic Development

• Growth of ICT Industry: The production of ICT goods and services has become an industry in itself.

• Support for Developing Countries: Strategies and partnerships are needed to help developing countries grow their information economies and participate fully in the digital world.

4. The Economic Power of ICT

• Job Creation & E-commerce: ICT is essential for creating jobs and facilitating online business, leading to economic growth.

• New Market Opportunities: Advancements in ICT have reduced the cost of technology for businesses, leading to new market opportunities and cost savings.

• Big Data and Automation: Technologies like big data and automation tools have revolutionized business processes, product development, and customer interactions.

5. Challenges and Downsides

• Cybersecurity Issues: Digitalization has led to an increase in cybercrime and data security threats.

• Automation Displacement: Automation tools and robots may displace human workers, contributing to unemployment in certain sectors.

• Social Impact: There is concern that ICT has reduced face-to-face human interaction, leading to a more isolated society.

Strategic Analysis

• Definition: A methodical, deliberate process that breaks down a complex problem into parts to find a solution. It involves abstract thinking and careful examination of variables.

• Key Characteristics:

  • Deliberate Thinking: A detailed and thoughtful approach to analyzing a problem.

  • Context Consideration: Understanding the broader context in which a problem exists.

  • Time and Resources: Strategic analysis is often influenced by how much time and resources are available to address a problem.

Steps in Strategic Analysis (Arzadon, 2018)

1. Identify the Problem:

   • Define the problem clearly.

   • Identify the factors or conditions involved in the situation.

2. Analyze the Problem:

   • Examine the variables influencing the situation.

   • Identify potential challenges and their causes.

3. Generate a Solution:

   • Develop practical, reasonable, and creative criteria for solving the problem.

   • Consider various strategies to address the issue.

4. Implement the Solution:

   • Execute the chosen plan of action.

5. Assess and Reflect on the Outcome:

   • Evaluate the effectiveness of the solution.

   • Draw lessons that will guide future decisions and actions.

Applications of Strategic Analysis

• Personal Life: Strategic analysis can be applied to personal challenges, such as academic performance or life goals.

• SWOT Analysis: A personal SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis can help understand personal issues and construct strategies to achieve life goals (e.g., finishing high school with good grades).

Intuitive Thinking

• Definition: A spontaneous, subconscious approach to decision-making that doesn't require a structured, logical process.

• Characteristics:

  • Based on instincts, feelings, and previous experiences.

  • Often used when immediate decisions are required without extensive analysis.

Strategic Thinking vs. Intuitive Thinking

• Strategic Thinking: Involves detailed analysis and planning. It is a more conscious, effortful process.

• Intuitive Thinking: A quick, less structured decision-making method that relies on gut feelings and fast judgments, often used in familiar situations where detailed analysis is not feasible.

When to Use Strategic Analysis vs. Intuitive Thinking

• Strategic Analysis: When the situation is complex and requires thorough understanding and planning (e.g., solving a challenging problem or achieving long-term goals).

• Intuitive Thinking: In situations where quick decisions are necessary, and there is a high degree of familiarity or experience with the problem.