Originating in the 1900’s when “influential Italian economist” and “avid gardener” Vilfredo Pareto noticed 80 percent of his peas originating in 20 percent of the peapods, the 80/20 rule dictates that 80% of something comes from 20% of something related.

For example, in management, 80% of profits are produced by 20% of employees. 80% of money is earned by only 20% of the population.

As it relates to networks, Barabási states that 80% of links on the internet lead to 15% of web pages.

So what lies behind this 80/20 rule? The mathematical expression known as “power laws”.