Conditions for Establishing a Social Knowledge Network within a Firm
Jaap de Jonge, Management Consultant, Netherlands
In 'Handboek Communities (p. 46-52, in Dutch) a number of
conditions for establishing a social knowledge network within a firm are presented that could be useful:
1. Have an
open culture (be as transparent as possible and be honest about things you don't want to disclose)
2.
Be prepared to share (start with giving in the conviction that you will eventually get back more from the community)
3.
Management involvement (show it is important)
4.
Be flexible (internet and audiences are unpredicable, so adapt your project continuously)
5.
Accept and use critics (even when they seem/are unfair)
6.
Be realistic (only a low percentage of people is willing to actively participate, but for them the fact that lots of passive followers are there is relevant. Take a long term view. Communities are not built overnight nor can you change your company quickly).
Lloyd Lawrence
