Strategic Proactive Networking
SPANning
It helps if you know what other significant people are thinking and doing and if they
know what you are thinking and doing. It therefore makes sense that you should be
systematic in ensuring that this mutual knowing takes place.
- Networking is the process of increasing your number of connections
- Proactive Networking means seeking/arranging opportunities to network
- Strategic Proactive Networking involves deliberately targeting key individuals or
groups
The three papers in this section explore the concept of networking in general and
strategic proactive networking (the gutsy variety) in particular.
This worksheet was first used at the Eigg Land Reform Forum
(17-18 June 2000) and the assistance in its preparation of Drennan Watson of
LandWise Scotland is greatfully acknowledged.
The following lists should not be seen as definitive but rather as jumping off points
for discussion of the possible structure, functions and evolution of
‘networking’ groups.
What can Networks do?
How do
Networks begin and develop?
How do Networks
stay alive?
Provide mutual support for lifelong and experience-based learning
- Exchange information and views internally and/or externally eg by mailing information,
newsletters, listserves, websites etc and thus enhancing mutual learning between members.
- Exchange skills and learning
- Give mutual support and so build confidence
Negotiate and articulate a shared vision
- Develop network-wide ideas, analysis, vision and strategy.
- Develop a sense of common purpose
Be a advocacy and/or lobbying body
- Work jointly on campaigns to mobilise support and influence policy
- Carry out concerted actions or advocacy
- Represent and area or interest group in consultation or partnership
Integrate and co-ordinate the work of smaller groups
- Co-ordinate work in one district or area to avoid unnecessary duplication
- Help minority groups relate to each other without losing their identities
Grow, develop, change, die
- Outreach to new members or groups on an ever-widening level – local, regional,
national, international.
- Disband or reform in response to the changing environment
How do Networks begin and
develop?
- An initial individual or group identifies the issues for which they would like to have
support, mutual learning, etc or on which they would like to expand work
- Group members think of other individuals or groups who may want to join and then engage
in Strategic Proactive Networking (SPANning). New members are asked to think of newer
members and so on. Physical maps are drawn to focus attention on networking possibilities.
- Draft policy/mission statements are prepared at an early stage and used for PR leaflets
etc. Action/Business plans are developed, agreed upon, and form the basis of ongoing
action.
- Build or shrink the network to the scale appropriate to the task in hand. In some cases
it may be best to form splinter networks for special themes or tasks.
- Let the young ones take off on their own, and shut up the shop should the need arise.
How do Networks stay alive?
- Hold effective and action oriented meetings
- Organise training workshops/ conferences
- Arrange for exchange visits and placements
- Organise informal social occasions and celebrations
- Make best use of the internet both for communication between members and to publicise
network efforts to the wider world – email lists, listbots, web sites, discussion
groups, online conferences etc (with snail mail options for those who are not internet
connected)
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