Structural Holes

“A gap lies between disconnected groups, and a position lies in bridging it.”

01 / PLAINLY

What it means, plainly

A structural hole is a missing connection between parts of a network that a broker may bridge.

02 / CONTEXT

A little more

A structural hole is a missing connection between parts of a network. A broker may access diverse information, translate, and coordinate, while also controlling the flow.

03 / WHY IT MATTERS

Why it matters

Brokerage can support translation and coordination while also concentrating control, workload, and dependency.

04 / EXAMPLE

A familiar example

Someone active in both design and logistics spots a conflict neither team can see separately.

05 / LIMIT

What it does not mean

Brokerage guarantees neither creativity nor common benefit; it may create overload, distortion, or dependency.

06 / NOTICE

Notice it in your day

Draw two disconnected teams and their bridge. Mark what information crosses, what could be withheld, and how they might connect without relying on one person forever.

FINAL NOTE

The idea worth keeping

Ask which information crosses the bridge, what is withheld, and who could connect without a broker.

QUESTIONS / 02

Questions people still have

What advantage can come from bridging a structural hole?

Access to diverse information and a position to translate or coordinate between groups.

Does brokerage always benefit the whole network?

No. It can create distortion, overload, control of flow, or dependency.