Network diagrams can present the interaction compexity of systems.

Network Theory

CSIRO research on Network Theory is being applied through a community of practise centred around developing and promoting its use in the wider research community.

• 16 November 2007 | Updated 14 October 2011

• What is network theory?
• Network Theory research at CSIRO
• Research applications

What is network theory?

Network theory concerns itself with the study of the structure of the relationships between the basic elements that makeup a system.

Studying the underlying network structure of system, has proven itself to be a useful tool, as many features of complex systems arise from their underlying network structure, rather than specifics of the objects and interactions.

Network theory reduces a system into a set of object call nodes and a set of relationships called edges that link the nodes together.

This bare bones system representation is then analysed for key structural characteristics that might otherwise be hidden, such as:

• clustering
• modular design
• feedback loop structure
• small world properties
• scale free structures.

The general nature of networks theory means that there are many potential applications of this technique to many natural, physical and social systems, including:

• ecosystems and community food webs
• gene regulatory networks
• metabolic networks
• the World Wide Web
• the internet
• social networks
• governance structures.

Network theory research at CSIRO

The CSIRO Network Theory Working Group (CNTWG) is a community of practise centred around developing and promoting the use of Network Theory in the wider research community.

The CNTWG aims to enable cross-disciplinary research and link researchers from diverse background with an interest in understanding complex networks.

Specifically, the CNTWG aims to:

• develop capacity in the area of Network Theory
• share new insights and knowledge about Network Theory
• provide a forum for the exchange of concepts and tools for analysing networks from diverse disciplines
• identifying new opportunities for collaborative research
• investigate the interaction between network structure and network function
• demonstrate the relevance of network theory to the wider research community.

To achieve these goals, the CNTWG regularly runs a number of activities including:

• workshops
• working group meetings
• scientific exchanges
• specialised training.

Research applications

The application and potential of Network Theory is extensive, and it is used in areas where the understanding of broader system and interactive behaviours are otherwise difficult to obtain through convential analyses. 

Examples include:

• communication networks
• control systems
• food webs
• gene regulatory networks
• disease spread and epidemics
• neural networks
• social systems.

Read about Dr David Newth: modelling complex social and biological systems.