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Communication and optimal hierarchical networks

Author

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  • Guimerà, R.
  • Arenas, A.
  • Dı́az-Guilera, A.

Abstract

We study a general and simple model for communication processes. In the model, agents in a network (in particular, an organization) interchange information packets following simple rules that take into account the limited capability of the agents to deal with packets and the cost associated with the existence of open communication channels. Due to the limitation in the capability, the network collapses under certain conditions. We focus on when the collapse occurs for hierarchical networks and also on the influence of the flatness or steepness of the structure. We find that the need for hierarchy is related to the existence of costly connections.

Suggested Citation

  • Guimerà, R. & Arenas, A. & Dı́az-Guilera, A., 2001. "Communication and optimal hierarchical networks," Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications, Elsevier, vol. 299(1), pages 247-252.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:phsmap:v:299:y:2001:i:1:p:247-252
    DOI: 10.1016/S0378-4371(01)00302-8
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Luis Garicano, 2000. "Hierarchies and the Organization of Knowledge in Production," Journal of Political Economy, University of Chicago Press, vol. 108(5), pages 874-904, October.
    2. Jayanth R. Banavar & Amos Maritan & Andrea Rinaldo, 1999. "Size and form in efficient transportation networks," Nature, Nature, vol. 399(6732), pages 130-132, May.
    3. Radner, Roy, 1993. "The Organization of Decentralized Information Processing," Econometrica, Econometric Society, vol. 61(5), pages 1109-1146, September.
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    Cited by:

    1. Almendral, Juan A. & López, Luis & Cholvi, Vicent & Sanjuán, Miguel A.F., 2005. "Congestion schemes and Nash equilibrium in complex networks," Physica A: Statistical Mechanics and its Applications, Elsevier, vol. 355(2), pages 602-618.

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