Impact Networks: Create Connection, Spark Collaboration, and Catalyze Systemic Change
David Ehrlichmanamazon.com
Impact Networks: Create Connection, Spark Collaboration, and Catalyze Systemic Change
learning networks convene one to two times per year on average, while action networks convene one to four times per year on average. Some networks may only ever convene remotely—because of distance, cost, and accessibility—while others mostly convene in person.
cycle of planning and iteration allows networks to integrate both deliberate and emergent strategies for action.
Convenings bring all participants together to simultaneously build relationships, learn from one another, and make decisions for the future.
Convenings:show the systemcreat connection and learning and decisions to advance the network
Network leaders (weavers, in particular) connect people together directly by making introductions and setting the context for a conversation.
Soft connection methodscomms platform to make offers nd requestsintros and facilitated connectionssite visits and shared meals learning journeyswebinars and discussions etc
you’re unsure how to proceed, ask yourself, “Who is this network for first?”11
Start small and focus on building strong relations
the amount of time needed for a meaningful full-group conversation is about five minutes per person.
12-24 people x 5 min ea (at least) = 90-120 min5 min minimum for a true group convo
our experiences have taught us to start somewhere between twelve and twenty-four participants for the launch of most new action networks.
center people who are affected by the issue at hand, as well as those who typically are excluded from networks—from the very beginning. This doesn’t mean “letting them participate,” it means listening and following their leadership.
Whoever is invited to join a network first is likely to significantly impact the makeup of the resulting group, as the social structures that are present at a group’s founding are likely to be retained over time.
Criticl to have diversity t the start so results in diversity of new membersnetworks of the originators drives who joins