Reshma,

Faced with the same question and issues of lack of formal methodology for
analysis based on the actor-network, I've attempted to identify set of
relevant properties and the attributes of the actors and their links. I've
concentrated and emphasized on the function of translation and the
characteristic of openness (content and communication) without which
translation and influence of one actor upon another (via their links) might
not be possible.

Please take a look at my blog entries regarding this in the "Actor-Network
theory & methodology" category at (newer to older entries):
http://www.kmentor.com/socio-tech-info/archives/cat_actornetwork_theory_methodol\
ogy.html

The following entry provides a summarized (sort of) presentation. Need to
follow the links for individual entries:
http://www.kmentor.com/socio-tech-info/archives/000024.html

The following entry might be of interest since it is a discussion with
another interested individual:
http://www.kmentor.com/socio-tech-info/archives/000072.html

Hope you find this helpful.

sincerely,
--
Mentor Cana, Ph.D. Student Rutgers University
SCILS - The School of Communication Information and Library Studies
Home page: http://www.scils.rutgers.edu/~mentor
Personal Blog/Weblog: http://www.kmentor.com/socio-tech-info


On Thu, 14 Aug 2003, at 13:33 +0100, Reshma Gandecha wrote:
>Whilst describing the ANT analytical approach, there is no cookbook or
>instruction booklet as to how actor network analysis can be done. It is
>merely the perception of the researcher as to who the actors are. So,
>there is a clear GAP in the application of ANT as an analytical tool.
>Researchers may dismiss ANT either because they don’t understand the
>theory or don’t know how to apply the theory.
>
>But if you already have a tool such as the stakeholder stance then it is
>half the battle. Within stakeholder application and so would it be
>possible to use this to identify at least the human actor to help ANT
>analyssi?
>
>Combining social theories today can no doubt add value to Social Science
>Research.
>
>Any suggestions, comments and valu judegements are welcome.