Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Social Networking is a form of social structure (formal or informal) comprised of several actors individuals and organizations- that interact together with the common goal of sharing limited resources (tangible and intangible) to a promote a common interest. Stemming from the discussion, the participants evaluated Guyanas situation and expressed that there are several challenges affecting effective and efficient networking. These challenges were noted as: 1. The lack of an umbrella body to foster cohesiveness of organisations; 2. Lack of effective communication with other organisations within the same service sector or across; 3. Lack of the expertise and resources needed by organisations within the same service sector or across; 4. Political influences, and 5. Many well-established organisations and individuals are more territorial than others, thus hindering the degree to which other organisations approach or want to work with them. The participants noted that there are several benefits to be had should networking be more organised and focused (valued). These benefits include: 1. strengthening capacities of organisations and individuals; 2. increasing the impact and quality of the service delivered by voluntary organisations;
3. 4. 5. 6.
Value-added to the efforts NGOs and Individuals make to development; A wider reach of services to potential beneficiaries; Sharing and networking resources- tangible and intangible, and Increasing the weight of service sectors for effective Advocacy.
The facilitator introduced the participants to factors that they should consider when joining or establishing a network. These factors include: 1. The type of Network- This relates to the type of beneficiaries. E.g a Youth Network, A Womens network or a Disability Network. 2. Who are the members of the Network and/or what other organisations or individuals execute programmes/activities of the same nature. 3. The clearly outlined objectives and strategies to achieve objectives. 4. The indicators of success for the network. 5. A clearly defined Management body of the network. 6. Identified Sources of funding for the Network.