Nonprofits Rely on Collaboration

Collaboration brings together the broad range of resources and expertise needed to achieve lasting solutions. Now, more than ever, nonprofits need to exploit the power of networks to increase their own impact.

Networked organizations have common characteristics, as Jane Wei-Skillern summarized in “Nonprofit Networking: The New Way to Grow” (Harvard Business School Working Knowledge, 2005). Wei-Skillern noted:

>> The parties (in a network) would rather discuss and work through a problem than simply abandon the relationship.

 >> There is a high level of trust.

>> They share and help each other: This is the “norm of reciprocity.”

Leaders of growth nonprofits are more likely to use Web 2.0 tools, including Webinars, online peer-to-peer advisory groups, networking events and conferences. Web 2.0 tools also can be used to move a nonprofit from “struggling” to “growth.”

Technology facilitates the formation of networks as well as enhancing their effectiveness, according to “Working 2.0 Wikily: Social Change with a Network Mindset,” a report by the Monitor Institute and funded by the Packard Foundation.

For a corresponding Ventureneer study, visit the Website ventureneer.com/vblog/thriving-nonprofits-rely-peers-and-professionals. For the Harvard Business study, access hbswk.hbs.edu/item/4801.html. For the Monitor study, access www.monitorinstitute.com/documents/WorkingWikily2.0hires.pdf.

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