The analysis of systems of structural elements, as opposed to the analysis of the behavior of individual structural members, is examined. Parts of network theory having a bearing on structural analysis, and the network formulation of structural analysis, are briefly presented. The matrix formulation is summarized, and the transformations involved are examined. The two formulations are compared, and it is shown that they yield identical equations describing the systems, but that the network formulation has conceptual and computational advantages. This formulation also makes easier the transference of techniques from other disciplines, such as Kron's method of piecewise solutions. Finally, it is shown that the network formulation can serve as a basis for efficient and general computer programs.