Avoid the graveyard of dead resources by co-creating content with your network
Resources are assets that an individual or group draws on to function more effectively. Network-centric resources are people-powered and participatory resources that aim to maximise usage and engagement. They are developed through sharing ownership, enabling contribution, and supporting collaboration.
Those of us who are part of the tech and social change sector are driven by a need to change the world for the better and strive to share and exchange knowledge and skills. We develop resources intending to allow communities and networks to use, modify and contribute. Resources and materials are often not adequately maintained or cared for after release. It is assumed that beneficiaries will see the benefit of a resource and be motivated to sustain it themselves. Resource developers are often faced with quick obsolescence of their content. Often, this happens because funding only exists to get to launch or because those who initiated and developed the resource took a ‘if we build it, they will come’ approach without a post-launch engagement and modification plan. The problem is exacerbated by focusing on the technology tools that enable access and sharing of the resource while forgetting about efforts to engage and encourage human beings. As a result, we see a lot of wheel reinvention and not building upon existing knowledge.
We know the solutions lie in being intentional in the initial design of resources and follow the main tenets of design methodology
- To get users involved early and as equal partners.
- To be transparent during development and solicit review and feedback.
- To have clear inroads and encourage contribution.
- To appreciate those that do, and guide those that may have something to contribute but don’t know it.
- To articulate the value of participating.
- To encourage reuse and modification through outreach and licensing.
Learn more about the Lifecycle of a Network-Centric Resource
Resources Designed Using a Network-Centric Methodology
- IFRC’s Data Playbook
- Level-Up
- The Collective Power Playbook
- The Decoding Injustice Tools Hub
- The Lifecycle of a Network-Centric Resource
Our Online Discussion Series
Since we began the Network-Centric Resources project at the beginning of 2017, we have been struck by the ingenuity and wisdom of resource developers in how they approach co-creation with networks and communities. We have also heard from many resource developers that while a guide would be helpful, it would be even more helpful to have opportunities to compare notes with other resource developers. The online discussion series has been established to provide a platform to share lessons learned and talk through tough challenges.
Get in touch
To get advice on your network-centric resource, send an email to info (at) fabriders.net.