Resources for Network Effectiveness

This is a selection of resources that the Monitor Institute compiled during 2008 to help social-sector leaders quickly and effectively apply networking to their work. The field is changing quickly, so please send us your suggestions of additional resources to include.

1. New to Networks

Curious about networks and their power to facilitate social change? Wondering how they might be useful for your organization? This area of the site provides a quick guide to introductory resources.

• Primers: Quick introductions to what networks are, why they are relevant, and what they can do.
• Case Studies: A collection of examples illustrating the power and potential of networks.

2. Starting a Network

Interested in starting a network? Want to know what it takes to get a successful network off the ground? These resources provide valuable information for ensuring you set up your network appropriately.

• How-To Guides: Practical advice on how to start a network.
• Case Studies: Stories of how other networks were founded, including the key challenges faced and lessons learned.

3. Technology and Communications Resources

Resources for those interested in learning about the range of technologies that can be leveraged in a network setting (e.g., wikis, blogs), as well as those looking to stay up-to-date on new developments in the field.

• Getting Started: An introduction to social media technologies currently being leveraged in the nonprofit / network field.
• Social Media Tools: Collection of resources, which provide an overview of the range of social media technologies (e.g., wikis, blogs), what they can be used for, and strategies for effective implementation.
• Social Network Analysis Tools: Resources on SNA, its uses, and available tools.
• Technology Blogs: The latest news and happenings in the space of nonprofit / network technology.
• Recent Research: Academic papers and reports. Helpful in thinking about approaches to and uses of technology.
• Case Studies: Examples of how technology can be leveraged to increase impact and creative uses of social media.

4. Advanced Resources
These resources address more advanced network topics, and are particularly relevant for networks that have already launched.

• How Networks Work: Resources on how networks function and operate, and what makes them effective.
• Strategy: Resources and case studies on developing an appropriate network strategy.
• Evolution: Resources and case studies for understanding and addressing a network’s evolution and changing needs.
• Leadership: Resources and case studies exploring the type of leadership required for a successful network engagement for nonprofits.
• Coordination and Facilitation: Resources and case studies for selecting or supporting a network coordinator, and for setting up the appropriate governance structure.
• Membership and Participation: Resources and case studies for managing membership issues (e.g., keeping members engaged).
• Learning and Assessment: Resources and case studies for assessing a network’s impact and effectiveness.

5. Case Studies: A repository of stories and case studies, including examples of networks demonstrating best practices.

Theory of Change: This paper outlines a theory of change for how the Packard Foundation can accelerate progress on its programmatic objectives by supporting efforts to increase the effectiveness of networks. Comments are welcome.

---

What do we want from you? In keeping with a network mindset, this is a collaborative, living site, intended for comment, editing and amendment. In short, we would love for you to contribute. In particular, we’d appreciate your input in three key areas:

How can you contribute? Every page has a comment box. Please write us a comment and we promise to read it and consider your suggestions.

Thanks for taking the time to explore the site and help us make it better!

1 Comment to Resources for Network Effectiveness

Leave a comment, question, or resource