1. FUNCTIONS OF A NETWORK

2. Networking or Network? Is process of acquiring resources and builds power by using or creating link-ages between two or more individuals, groups or organizations.  organizations and individuals come together to learn, share resources and experiences, and provide mutual support. Networking

3. Networking or Network? Is a structure that allows organizations or individuals to come together voluntarily to achieve a common purpose Is a structure that can facilitate networking. Network

4. BENEFITS OF NETWORKING  Build alliances that will strengthen your work  Stay in touch with developments in your area of work and get a wider perspective on issues  Get access to information that will help your work  Influence other organizations to take up and support your issues  Reduce duplications of work because you are aware of each other’s plans  Raise awareness and influence individual decision-makers  Receive and share peer support and encouragement.

5. WHAT MAKES A GOOD NETWORK A clear purpose for the network  Organizations are actively involved and well represented  Democratic and transparent system are established  Strong coordination mechanisms and decision making processes  Concrete activities that are interesting to members  Trust is developed between members  The network carries respect and is flexible  Sufficient resources to maintain the network  Identification and induction of a new members  Regular monitoring and evaluation

6. COMMON NETWORK PROBLEMS TO AVOID  Inward-looking networks  members focus too much on developing structures, such as the “perfect” constitution and by laws, or compete for leadership roles  Loss of direction  Networks may lose their focus and thus members may lose interest  Domination by one or a few members

7. COMMON NETWORK PROBLEMS TO AVOID Centralization and bureaucracy  The network may become too reliant on an employed chairperson or coordinator or secretary and decision –making may become centralized, bureaucratic, and undemocratic with members communicating through the coordinator instead of directly with each other or with chairperson.  Conflicts of interest between members  Members may compete for resources or for recognition from government and donors.

8. TIPS FOR ESTABLISHING AN EFFECTIVE NETWORK  “Networking” is more important than “a network”: Don’t let structural issues get in the way of networking activities.  Establish clear purpose of for the network and review this regularly  Make sure that, activities of the network are interesting and beneficial to members  Ensure that, members spend time establishing trust with each other through joint activities  Make sure that, decision making processes are transparent  Recognize that, the strength of the network is based on the strength of its members-if the organizations are weak, then the network will be weak.

9. PILLARS OF A NETWORK