The graphic representation of relational data is one of the central elements of social network analysis. In this paper, the author describe
the use of visualization in interview-based data collection procedures
designed to obtain personal networks information, exploring four
main contributions. First, the author shows a procedure by which the
visualization is integrated with traditional name generators to facilitate obtaining information and reducing the burden of the interview
process. Second, the author describes the reactions and qualitative
interpretation of the interviewees when they are presented with an
analytical visualization of their personal network. The most frequent
strategies consist in identifying the key individuals, dividing the personal network in groups and classifying alters in concentric circles
of relative importance. Next, the author explores how the visualization of groups in personal networks facilitates the enumeration of the
communities in which individuals participate. This allows the author
to reflect on the role of social circles in determining the structure of
personal networks. Finally, the author compares the graphic representation obtained through spontaneous, hand-drawn sociograms
with the analytical visualizations elicited through software tools. This
allows the author to demonstrate that analytical procedures reveal
aspects of the structure of personal networks that respondents are
not aware of, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of using
both modes of data collection. For this, the author presents findings
from a study of highly skilled migrants living in Spain (n = 95) through
which the author illustrates the challenges, in terms of data reliability,
validity and burden on both the researcher and the participants
