introduction to communities of practice

Communities of Practicefor

Local Government

Communities of

Practice

What’s it all about

Groupof

People

Brought together

To solve common problems and share common interests

Communities do not reproduce

Project Teams

Project Teams

Management

Hierarchy

Management

Hierarchy

So how are they different?

TraditionalStructure

Communities

Provide products

Specific tasks

Share knowledge

Develop skills

Organisation Benefits•Value through saving time•Innovations•Sharing Good Practice / avoiding duplication of work•Carbon Footprint reduction•Keep up to date with current thinking•Developing ideas•Induction to new roles / staff development•Relationship building

What’s in it for Me

Development

Reputation

Networks

Profile Training

Ingredients for Success

Purpose

A CoP needs a clear purpose which is relevant and meaningful to its members. It should specify exactly what the community is for and what will be gained from being part of it.

FacilitatorsEvery cop begins with a team of 3 facilitators, they work together to ensure the purpose & needs of the members are being met through a variety of online activities and discussions. They welcome new members and keep the community vibrant and focused.

Activities

Within each CoP there are a variety of activities, tools and techniques employed to aid and enhance conversations and thetransfer of knowledge.

Membership

Each community will have active members with a lively interest in sharing their knowledge with each other.

Hello

Join usPromotion

Ensure high levels of management buy in.  Promote CoPs ability to help solve daily work challenges

Members Facilitators Sponsor

–Participate –Share–Support

–Stimulates activity –maintains the group –Coordinates –liaises

–Promotes –Strategic–Resources

Roles

Success•clear purpose •create a safe and trusted environment•committed core group of active participants •being motivated•knowing the needs of participants•having a clear action plan with activities to meet needs•blending face-to-face and online activities

• build on personal relationships

• use the necessary tools• sponsor, budget, resources• not to fast• manage do not control• light touch• members goals are key

Advice

Communities take

Time and Effortto get long term

Success

Remember

www.communities.idea.gov.uk