We often connect with others to address common interests or commitments, only to find how difficult it is to sustain such a network over time.
Usually we assume that the network's structure needs to be changed to help it function better. So we turn to the evolutionary patterns seen in formal network structures, looking for what 'ought to be' the next stage in our own network's development. We create hubs and replace missing connections, move from a hub-and-spoke structure to small world, to scale-free . . .
But not all networks respond to this approach. Some networks seem to exist as a pool of potential connections, coming alive only when action is called for and creating temporary structures which serve that action. Unlike formal networks, where structure is designed as a container for action, in self-organising networks structure is created when the network wants to act, and disappears when the action is complete.
This kind of network is often found where individual participation is not in some way contractual, for example in internal staff networks intended to provide support or generate learning, or skill-based networks where no commercial obligation drives collaboration but a common interest and history holds the group lightly together.
In this Adaptive Action Lab, you will learn ways to 1) see the usefulness in these connections; 2) understand how to create the best fit between the patterns of connections and the work to be done; and 3) take action to set the conditions for your emergent network to accomplish its work.
Join Griff and Royce as they take you on this shared journey to explore the potential and promise of emergent networks.
It is beneficial to participate live, but we know you have busy schedules! All sessions will be hosted on Zoom.us, and are recorded and made available to you, in case you are unable to attend. The recordings are not shared with anyone who is not enrolled in the course. For more information contact info@hsdinstitute.org.
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