Abstract: A method and system generate an inferential network. Records of searches of a network of linked nodes are stored. Each of the nodes is connected to another one of the nodes by a link. Further, each of the records includes: 1) search terms used in a corresponding search; and 2) results of the corresponding search. The results correspond to nodes of the network. The stored records are analyzed to infer relationships between pairs of nodes of the network. Each of the relationships is inferred from the behavior of one of the nodes of a pair of nodes relative to the other node of the pair of nodes. Inferential nodes corresponding to the nodes of the pairs of nodes are generated, and inferential links between the inferential nodes are generated. The inferential links correspond to the inferred relationships.

Abstract: In accordance with the teachings described herein, systems and methods are provided for conducting a search of a network for information related to a topic specified by a search initiator. A query may be generated that includes search information and a first-degree contact. The first-degree contact may be an electronic record that represents a member of the social network, and the search information may identify the topic. One or more electronic records that each represent a social-network member may be searched using the query to identify one or more social-network members that are identified in connection with the topic and who are directly or indirectly associated with the first-degree contact.

Abstract: This invention is generally directed to one or more systems or methods relating to social network analysis. More specifically, this invention is generally directed to one or more systems or methods relating to personal communication networks and the analysis of personal-communication-network data.

Abstract: A method and system generate an inferential network. Records of searches of a network of linked nodes are stored. Each of the nodes is connected to another one of the nodes by a link. Further, each of the records includes: 1) search terms used in a corresponding search; and 2) results of the corresponding search. The results correspond to nodes of the network. The stored records are analyzed to infer relationships between pairs of nodes of the network. Each of the relationships is inferred from the behavior of one of the nodes of a pair of nodes relative to the other node of the pair of nodes. Inferential nodes corresponding to the nodes of the pairs of nodes are generated, and inferential links between the inferential nodes are generated. The inferential links correspond to the inferred relationships.