NETWORKING PROBLEM

TIPS

Making decisions:

Some networks aim to reach consensus decisions—that is, all parties agreeing. But this means a single party could disagree, stopping a decision being made.

• Clearly identify how decisions are made when consensus cannot be reached.

Becoming complacent:

Like all organisations, networks run the risk of becoming complacent, operating in their comfort zone. They may also become bureaucratic and inflexible.

• Make sure it is someone’s role in the network to seek new opportunities.
• Arrange informal social and cultural activities.
• Meet with other communities and organisations to exchange contacts and ideas.

Accountability is difficult:

Accountability is more difficult in large and isolated networks because decisions are made at many different points.

Large networks are also more likely to lose touch with outlying members of the network

• Make sure that the roles and responsibilities of the different parts of your network are clearly defined and understood.
• Make sure that accountability of network participants and processes are clear and agreed to by everyone.

Acquiring new skills:

Setting up new partnerships may require entirely new skills and knowledge.

• Do an internal audit to work out if you have the people with the right skills for the partnership activities.
• You may need to recruit people with new skills, contacts and relationships; or employ seconded staff from other network members.
• Share knowledge between the network members by communicating better.
• Make partnerships with people and organisations that have a good reputation for strong governance, and creative solutions.

Becoming competitive:

Networks between groups or organisations with similar functions, memberships and funding sources may become competitive rather than collaborative. They may end up competing for the same funds.

• Build trust across your networks, for example, by sharing resources, or by making joint decisions on issues that concern you all.
• Encourage more open, accurate and easy exchange of information across the network.

Losing control:

Leaders and managers run the risk of losing control of their own agenda when different key stakeholders—government, non-government organisations, industry groups—have different ideas and priorities.

• Analyse the different concerns and issues of each stakeholder.
• Analyse if they are influencing your governance processes and outcomes.