Nonrespondents in Communication Network Studies

Abstract

This article explores problems caused by nonrespondents in sociometric studies of organizational communication and describes how networks that include nonrespondents can be analyzed. An illustrative example is used to conceptualize the problems and issues in analyzing such networks. An empirical study is described that operationalizes the decision criteria for choosing a method of analysis. Suggestions are offered for the design of communication network studies that may enhance response rates and provide the information needed to justify how incomplete network data sets may be analyzed.