Simple models for analyzing networks do not exist

On 20 January 2009 members of PSO participated in the collective learning trajectory ‘Capacity Development & Networks'. The 24 participants concluded at the end of the meeting that there were no simple models for analyzing types of networks.

Networks 

There were a lot of PSO members that wanted to participate in this learning trajectory. But unfortunately, there was room for only 24 participants, because PSO wanted the participants to work closely together in small groups with a maximum of 8 people per group. The session began with Fulco van Deventer, who works for Cordaid. He shared his view on networks with the participants.

Van Deventer's presentation was lively. He took the participants through networks and networking. He also dealt with the following questions along the line: What is the difference between a network and a regular organization? How do you distinguish between different types of networks? What are factors that influence the development of a network? Does the chosen or sometimes emerged structure fit the goal of the network?

Small groups 

The second part of the meeting that took place in the afternoon, the participants were divided into three small groups. They were encouraged to bring the insights they gained in the morning into practice. The participants had to look at their own ‘case network' and place it a quadrant made of two features. The first was focused on practice versus influencing policy. The second focused on the degree of formalization and structuring.

This exercise revealed that the balance of the scale of most networks leans more towards formalized and structured networks. Another point that became clear was that no network has a one-dimensional goal. The main goal can be for example learning, but the sub goal could be advocacy. And a network focusing on practise also wants to share knowledge with each other and learn form each other.

Afternoon 

The three small groups worked during the last part of the afternoon together to share their most important 'learning questions'. There were different accents here and there, but the main focus of the question is ownership of southern participants, the complicating factor of also being donor for the northern ortganizations and how to find the right role.

The participants continue this trajectory by describing and analysing their case network. A wiki is in use to share the findings. In the following meetings the three groups are going to work out their 'learning questions'.

Insight 

On 25th June 2009 the shared knowledge, new insights and recommendations will be shared with other interested colleagues in the PSO-network. Keep an eye on the PSO-website for more information.