Social and economic change made access to knowledge central to how we work. Collaborative working is constantly pushing boundaries. Tipping point in citizen behaviour, people can now create content, re-use information, co-produce services – otherwise known as web2.0.

1. Communities of Practice

2. how do we fix a problem like… a range of knowledge… needs to be shared and managed a diversity of people and skills… needs to be joined up and networked

3. new tools and assets… … need to be used efficiently evermore complex challenges… … require innovative solutions

7. do you belong to any?

8. what exists already? IDeA (2007) Social networks To collect and pass on information Friends and acquaintances Mutual needs As long as people have a reason to connect Purpose Project team To deliver a product or service Community of practice Formal work group Members Adhesive Duration Employees who report to the group‘s manager Job requirements and org structure Until organisational restructuring To accomplish a specific task Employees assigned by senior management Project milestones and goals Until project completion To develop smarter working, knowledge transfer and innovative practices Members selected on common interests and skills Commitment, and identification with group‘s expertise As long as there is value in sustaining the group

9. what are the benefits? managing knowledge working collaboratively generating innovation value for money

19. what are the challenges? Michael Norton, IDeA Involve members in the design of the community and understanding how it works, who does what and what the value is for them and KCC Defining the relevance Streamline the balance between online and offline activities Selecting the tools Facilitate, empower and value activity to community Building interest Allow different levels of participation from users to contributors Allowing time Invite influencers, early adopters and observers to create critical mass Building trust