Social network analysis (SNA) is a technique used to determine knowledge flows and gaps in mapping social networks for various knowledge types. In Social Networking: The Essence of Innovation, how social networking and SNA can influence innovation in an organization is discussed through the presentation of a broad range of concepts, examples, and cases. Author Jay Liebowitz presents strategies for developing personal knowledge networks, linking social networking to innovation and strategic intelligence, and exploring synergies between knowledge management, business intelligence, and competitive intelligence. An introduction to SNA is then given and followed by case studies and an exploration of applications, including knowledge mapping and the analysis of organizations. Finally, the software systems devoted to these areas are described, the results they have achieved are cited.