Download - 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