Since posting Eva Schiffer's description of the Net-Map tool people have been asking us how that tool is different (or the same as) the value networks NetMap^tm exercise. Well the names are very close obviously, and they are both colorful and playful. Both tools help people become oriented to network thinking, build network competencies and learn to create network narratives. Net-Map is a basic introduction to networks, while NetMat is designed to help people master Value Network Analysis. (The NetMat tool can be downloaded from the Professional Editions of the ValueNetworks.com application.)

Fifteen to twenty years ago many people learned to create process engineering narratives that drove forward huge advances in technology and business efficiency. Process engineering has several different dialects or variations: TQM, Lean, Six Sigma, etc. Now, people are learning a network narrative that also encompasses many different "dialects." Social networks and classic network analysis serve as a basic language for people who want to build network competencies. The Net-Map tool described by Eva is a fun way to get started building basic vocabulary and understanding some of the key network questions.

However, people who want to build a deeper level of network competency are attracted to more advanced tools such as some of the freeware social network applications, although these can be a bit cumbersome to work with. But even without mastering an application people can still deepen their network narratives and competencies with the help of manager friendly books such as Rob Cross's The Hidden Power of Social Networks, or Pati Anklam's Net Work.

The ValueNetworks.com NetMat exercise is designed to help people master the modeling language or "dialect" of Value Network Analysis (VNA) which helps people work more effectively to achieve specific goals - to create value. So the two tools are very complementary. People who are new to networks can begin with either or both! Both are contributions to the emerging tools and methods supporting network narratives.