Phases

1

Express your need to interact with peers:

I know – you know – we together might know better!

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2

Start a discussion of a domain in a core group and discover a common interest in this interaction. Dare introducing new forms of sharing experience. Encourage others!

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3

Contact potentially interested people by phone, by mail, and in informal talks during workshops and gatherings. Attract their attention and awake their interest. Involve them in a first small and useful interaction. Let them feel the possible benefits.

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4

Design the interaction in terms of time and place: Contributions in journals, discussions in electronic platforms, and meetings. Pay attention to early, intermediate results, summaries and conclusions of discussions. Assure the flow of the process; assure added value for all participants.

Motivate individuals through backchannel contacts.

Organize the core group (owner, convener, facilitator, experts) and take care of the inner and the outer circle.

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5

Organize workshops and face to face meetings on core topics. Strive for concrete products.

Live and learn within the CoP – this important phase of a CoP can last up to several years or even decades.

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6

Phase out when the domain of the CoP is becoming less relevant. Determine whether a reorientation might open a new vision. Organize a closing event: Celebrate the farewell with results achieved!

Use the empty space and time for new initiatives or contributions.

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