Networks are the loosest form of collaboration in the sense that they function primarily on the basis of information exchange, networking and building coalitions, lobbying for specific legislations or issues and learning amongst members. A network is a group of individuals and/or organizations who, on a voluntary basis, exchange information or undertake joint activities and who organize themselves in such a way that their individual autonomy remains intact.
The relationships are voluntary, involving mutual or reciprocal activities, and do not affect the independence or autonomy of those who are networking. However not all information sharing constitute networking- networks are more free flowing, reciprocal, and multi directional exchanges of information, ideas and resources.
A network's value and utility stands or falls on members as sources of useful information to be shared.
Networks are a valuable part of a community's ability to respond to human service needs outside the boundaries of formal organizations. Networks and networking are valuable organizational outreach mechanisms and strategies for achieving the mission and objectives of many NGOs and CBOs.
Networks essentially reach out to embrace diversity. Members work together towards a common goal. Networks tend to be decentralized and egalitarian with the participating members contributing to the costs. Such is the kind of network that GCN is.
The kind of networking that GCN is, is not exclusionary but very much inclusive and open to anyone who wants to contribute or to seek information and ideas. Because of this information without barriers feature of the network, members are able to reach out to others beyond their own organizations to exchange information, contacts and even resources. In networking, you are only as good as what you give away.
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Networks
