Social Network and Social development at Operational Level: The Case Study of Two Local Administrative Organizations in Phare Province

Abstract

This article compared two local social development services implemented by local administrative organizations in Phrae province: the hygienic and sustainable governance of local excrement led by Nongmuangkhai sub-district municipality and the healthcare supply center model by Wangchin sub-district municipality. Using the qualitative analysis by focus group method illustrated the impact of social networking on both cases. These two projects have solved the vital health problems in these sub-districts. Both projects had been established and operated by the complex network of multiple actors inside and outside sub-districts. There were different groups of actors joining these networks: bureaucratic agencies, local government agencies, and civil society groups. Using social network analysis illustrated the inter-level social linkages behind these two projects. Whereas the internal linkages between local people, sub-district municipality agencies, and other community organizations were the evident sources of manpower and financial supports to operate and maintain the local services, the external linkages were important sources of budget, knowledge, and skillset in terms of creating the local service innovation. The research found that it is necessary for local government organizations to create and maintain inter-level networks and formal and informal linkages to establish and operate their projects. However, the different types of networks will affect resources and linkage differently. The findings of this study can be used to empower local and community organizations in operating social development projects which is a crucial part of reforming social development policy in Thailand.