Network Building
Building Sustainable Communities through Network Building
This paper by Valdis Krebs and June Holley reviews the development of sustainable communities through methods of enhanced internal and external interactions. The authors describe the networking process through the use of network maps. The different phases of network mapping are described along with a description what the map looks like at each phase, and the processes of the network builder. 2002.
Building and Sustaining Citywide Afterschool Initiatives: Experiences of the Cross-Cities Network Afterschool Initiatives
The purpose of this paper by the National Institute on Out-of-School Time is to illustrate the experiences of a group of citywide afterschool initiatives focusing on strategies and practices for developing functional and sustainable out-of-school time programs. The authors provide lessons learned, challenges, and recommendations for building successful citywide out-of-school time initiatives. November 2002.
The Challenge of System-Building in the After-School Field: Lessons from Experience
National Institute on Out-of School Time This short discussion paper examines the challenges faced in the after-school sector when trying to build systems. The author highlights his own experiences in building systems for after-school in several US cities. October 2003.
Closing the Gap between Promise and Practice: A Framework for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluating Social Development Networks
This paper by the Collaborative Research Consulting presents an evidence-based framework and methods for planning, monitoring and evaluating social networks. The framework is meant to be used by agency staff and managers to assist in the process of entering into a network approach.
Do Networks Really Work? A Framework for Evaluating Public-Sector Organizational Networks
This article by Keith G. Provan and H. Brinton Milward examines the effectiveness of networks, as well as various issues encountered when evaluating the effectiveness of networks in providing services. The authors detail the effectiveness at various levels including for the community, network, organization and participant levels, and what happens if there is a conflict of success at any of the levels.
National Networks: Planning can align a national network for full impact
This article, presented by the Bridgespan Group focuses on strategic planning for national networks. They discuss the importance of the planning process and effective methods for aligning partners. These methods include: begin with goals, involve network members, clearly define roles, use data for decision-making, and ensure ownership instead of approval of the plan. June 2007.
Network Power for Philanthropy and Nonprofits
This report by The Barr Foundation presents the advantages of using a network approach in philanthropy and nonprofits. It provides a framework for network building including the development, structure and dynamics, and strategies for employing a network approach.
NGO Networks: Building Capacity in a Changing World
The purpose of this study by Claudia Liebler and Marisa Ferri was to present ideas about networking partnerships and the impact on agency capacity building. The major points include definitions of networks, forming networks, benefits of networks, impact on capacity building and recommendations for the future of networking. November 2004.
Vision, leadership and determination: Cities and their partners are creating [an] after-school system
In this article by the Cross Cities Network, authors explore how cities are responding to the growing need for after-school programs. A definition of system-building is provided along with a description of components that make up an effective system. The authors also illustrate lessons learned and various policy issues. October 2004.