Network science offers powerful insights into how organizations can work together to address intricate social and environmental issues. One particularly powerful structure is the hub-and-spoke network model. Often used in contexts ranging from transportation to communication systems, this model can also be applied in an
The role of communication and marketing cannot be overstated in the realm of networks and coalitions. As entities aimed at achieving common objectives, their strength lies in the synergy of their members. However, this synergy can only be achieved through effective communication and strategic marketing
The initial energy of launching a community network or forming a coalition is truly something to behold. Seeing disparate groups converge, aligning their objectives, and celebrating their first victories together creates an invigorating sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. However, one of the key challenges
Public health has long acknowledged the importance of partnership-building in achieving better health outcomes. As professionals in the field continually adapt their strategies to maximize the benefits of collaboration, various approaches have emerged. In our latest infographic, we present a comprehensive overview of these approaches
A systems approach to collaboration is a powerful way to improve social and environmental outcomes and strengthen communities and neighborhoods. However, most systems are messy and complex creatures that take time and resources to study and understand. Without the right insight into how the system
During our webinar last week on Ecosystem Mapping and Tracking for Community Health, we shared a number of research articles and resources for those who want to learn more about the subject. We asked our team for more of their favorite links and compiled them
“I assume that every collaboration will bring conflict that must be managed” ⏤ Nancy Cantor Tweet Conflict in a coalition is normal – in fact, it’s usually a sign that the coalition or network is quite strong and engaged. Its members are passionate and involved,
Social network analysis (SNA) has been around for many decades in academic circles, but it has only recently become a popular learning tool for networks and other collaboratives. For many decades we have built partnerships and collaboratives largely based on gut and intuition, utilizing a
In network theory, a major focus of study is on the relative ‘openness’ of a network, and its relationship with network effectiveness. Specifically, people wonder whether the ideal is closed vs open networks. Coleman (1988) introduced a theory that claims tighter, densely interconnected, ‘closed’ networks
Click one of the links below to download a free resource to strengthen your community partnerships, collaborative network, and strategic ecosystem.
Advice for building, managing, and assessing cross-sector networks or coalitions of partners.
A template to map the connections and interactions between key stakeholders in your community.
A worksheet and guide to help you think through and develop your network or ecosystem strategy.
Get monthly updates on VNL news, new research, funding opportunities, and other resources related to network and ecosystem mapping and management.
