I am not sure how to give my inputs to this since I will not be physically around to do anything here. I have been thinking about this for a while and I do feel strongly about what a network should do and should not do which I thought I will share with you.
A network by definition is a web that connects members [individuals, groups, organisations etc]. Before anything, we need to have a aim for a network, why does a network exist? What is its core purpose? In this case IFAN exists to connect and build capacity of liberals especially those who have been FNSTalumni.
A network has to have the following core functions
a) Build membership: Connect and expand member base: identify the potential members, reach out to them, get them to become members, engage them in network activities and RETAIN their membership;
b) Regular communication across the members: through a website, blog, newsletter, resource directory etc, a network has to have a place where members can go to, to access information about members and other shared resources;
c) Improve capacity and effectiveness of members: a network basically enhances synergy of all individual members’ efforts and can thereby be a stronger force in terms of advocacy or representation at public fora.
The network needs to first identify the needs of its members, match those needs with resources which may exist within the network itself, and if not bring in external resources. This process of needs assessment and resource sharing has to be active and ongoing so that all members take ownership in doing this along with the network secretariat.
The main thing to remember is that it is a two-way relationship. A network can truly success only if the members derive the needed benefit from it and the network also gets something from the members. Membership needs to be dependent on something concrete inputs which members must provide to the network.
To this end, I think IFAN first needs to concentrate on activities (a) and (b) before it can even think of (c) if it intends to be a strong and effective network.
Manali Shah
CCS, New Delhi
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4 comments:
I think Manali raises some very good points. We as members of the IFAN network have to, individually and collectively, think of ways of making the network more valuable for each one of us.
1) Attract new members, so that the network can harness a wider base of human resources.
2) Share ideas and explore areas of cooperation between members.
A network will only be as valuable as its members choose to make it.
I think Manali raises some very good points. We as members of the IFAN network have to, individually and collectively, think of ways of making the network more valuable for each one of us.
1) Attract new members, so that the network can harness a wider base of human resources.
2) Share ideas and explore areas of cooperation between members.
A network will only be as valuable as its members choose to make it.
Barun
Dear Mana,
Good to hear from you after so long. I was trying to call you but i couldnot get through. Your suggestions are worth noting. We will keep in mind. As Barun had also picked up points from your postings I think you should discuss it in our next meet and moreover I request you to be in touch and activly write on this blog not only this but also encourage other members also to write on this blog and start moving.
Regards,
Ashraf Ahmed Shaikh
National Coordinator
IFAN
Mumbai
+919867855733
My dear friends in Ifan,
One of the key things in democracy is numbers.We liberals in India lacks in numbers.So one of the key challenges before us is to increase the number of convinced liberals in India.Once Hitler is reported to have asked the question how many members the Pope had in his army.How we can increase the numbers?.There are several ways of doing it.Let us start thinking about it.Prof.Babu Joseph,President,LiberalGroup-Kerala.
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