Analyzing Social Networks Using Mobile Location Data

Abstract

Mobile location data tracking has become ubiquitous in recent times. However, its usage is limited to targeted advertisements and analysis of footfall traffic for commercial purposes. In this paper, I use mobile location data to understand offline social networks and gain a deeper understanding of the real world relationships people have in order to learn more about how ideas and opinions spread. A unique approach is proposed to map co-visits to real physical locations, and conducting network analysis on the social network graphs of these locations. Using this data, I hope to set the foundation for future work into understanding how political opinions and ideas can spread through offline social networks.