In this chapter, we discussed and learned how to think through the process of creating a graph, starting with the initial idea and then following a process through to a completed project. This has given us the opportunity to begin understanding how Gephi works with network data, how to visually assess the network, and how to select an appropriate layout based on the visual output of several approaches.

Once the layout type was settled on, we then discussed some approaches to analyze the network, both visually and programmatically, using some simple graph statistics and filters. We then explored the utility of making some simple modifications to the graph, providing viewers with a much clearer view of the network. Finally, we learned about using some simple export options that take the network beyond the Gephi application and into general use formats such as .png and .pdf.

With a basic understanding of networks and how to work with them in Gephi, it is now time to move on to more highly detailed sections of the book, starting with the next chapter, which will explore the growing number of interesting layout options available for Gephi. We'll walk through the pros and cons of many layout algorithms and determine which options can work best depending on specific network attributes.