The internet is not an impact network because it doesn't have a shared purpose. We need to work systemically, and that means working acrossion s and across sectors. Most organizations or individuals tend to see themselves at the centre of the universe,. Their primary focuss is on the organization itself. But the essential shift here is to see ourselves as part of a larger, connected system. Were not the sun at the center of a solar system, even though we're usually the heroes of our own stories. And so rather than putting your focus on yourself you should put other groups' needs at the front of your mind. You start to notice more intently how your efforts are related to others.
Social networks aren’t new. Humans have always gathered together and forged communities. But deliberately organizing those networks around shared principles, shared context, and a shared purpose is a powerful way we can help address some of the world’s most complex problems. A system that brings individuals and organizations together for learning and collaborative action is what David Ehrlichman calls an “impact network,” a scaled-out (rather than scaled-up) approach to creating greater change. In fact, David wrote the book on the subject—Impact Networks: Create Connection, Spark Collaboration, and Catalyze Systemic Change—which is why we invited him onto the podcast to talk about planning for emergence, unlearning command-and-control models, and the five activities all impact networks leverage to successfully co-create at scale.
Learn more about David's work and Converge here: https://www.converge.net/
Our book is available now at bravenewwork.com
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