ANEW is grounded in the basic principle that we can accomplish more together than even the best of us can accomplish alone. Networks provide a powerful approach to enable us to work together to bring system change and accelerate improvement.
Why Networks
1) Networks improve both the quantity and quality of RELATIONSHIPS
- Networks shift how we relate to one another from hierarchy to peers working to co-create solutions that works for all
- Networks take a systems approach by focusing on the many internal and external interrelated connections and interactions, as opposed to discrete and independent departments or organizations.
2) Networks mobilize more LEADERSHIP
- In networks, regardless of title & decision-making, everyone is a leader.
- In networks, everyone is encouraged to connect to others and everyone initiates collaborative action.
- In networks, power is not concentrated
3) Networks generate more actions that lead to BREAKTHROUGHS
- Networks approach change through experimentation and reflection
Differences between Traditional Organizations and Networks
| Characteristic | Organization | Network |
|---|---|---|
| Nature of Problem/ Issue | Hierarchical structure provides clear chain of command and accountability | Peer-based relationships, peer accountability, action starts anywhere by anyone |
| Degree of Collaboration | Works best for a single organization or small group | Best when partnerships and collaborations are needed |
| Intellectual Resources | Knowledge is contained within organization | Require different perspectives to be sufficiently innovative |
| Change | Focus on clear plans and timelines | Act on opportunities that arise |
| Knowledge about Achieving Outcomes | Set outcomes and move toward them through a set of tasks | Often make breakthroughs as a result of errors or unintended consequences |
| Assessing Progress | Tracking progress towards outcomes key to success | Learning and deep reflection key to making breakthroughs |
| Change Making | Stick to a long-term plan | Many small experiments and projects to explore solutions; continually changing action based on insights gained |
| Flexibility and Responsiveness | Good for developing programs and services that will not need to change very much | Essential when creating new systems |
| Role of leader | Designate jobs and roles and hold people accountable | Catalyze, facilitate, connect. Lead reflection |