This is a generalised checklist about network mapping and communications, that might be modified for use in Cornerstone proposals. It was developed to inform proposals for a Community of Practice. See also +Community Platform and Hub model
Scenario
The leaders of a network of groups, individuals and projects wants to increase the impact of their work through better communications and increased collaboration. They believe that mapping the network may provide a good basis for this.
Purpose
The aims of the mapping and comms programme are to:
Identify and share knowledge about the skills, knowledge and other assets in the network
Offer members of the network the opportunity to raise their profiles, if they wish to
Enable communication, co-operation and collaboration among all interests by adding digital tools to existing methods
Principles
The system should be :
Co-designed with network members to ensure it meets their needs, and gains their support
Developed as far as possible using familiar tools and systems
Accessible
Designed to allow members to manage their own data
Sustainable
Possible system components
A directory of network members, searchable by several criteria
Geomap of members
Netmap showing interests, wants, offers, collaborations and generating an interactive geomap for viewers
Existing communication tools used by network members e.g. Facebook, WhatsApp, blogs, Twitter etc
Other spaces and tools for communication and collaboration - examples below
Mapping and communications manager(s), network reporters.
Community of practice to learn new methods, with training and support
Users
The system will serve a range of interests:
Network members wishing to find more about others, contribute, collaborate and work more effectively
Other people interested in the services the network and its members may offer
Funders and commissioners
Other groups and networks interested in collaborating.
Network managers engaged in network building, support, evaluation and increasing comnnectivity.
Functions
The system may do some or all of the following, depending on decisions during the co-design process:
A directory and map that will help network members and others find who's who, what they are offering or requesting
Enable network members to add content, discuss what's happening and what's needed
Requirements: at least 1. Directory 2. Geomap and 4. online discussion. Also need to use to use 3 - netmap tools. Map manager from 6 and some facilitation.
B Activities - news, events, conversations
Display network events and activities
Provide or curate news about activities and major interests in the area
Enable contributions and conversations through existing or additional online channels
Additionally need tools from 4 and 5 and more comms management from 6.
C Cooperation, collaboration, campaigns- enabling network members to see interests, wants and offers
Find who is interested in what on a collaboration map
Scenario
Purpose
Principles
Possible system components
Users
Functions