Difference between revisions of "NGO Networking"
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| − | The degree to which an NGO is successful | + | The degree to which an NGO is successful depends heavily on what resources are available as well as how well the NGO can offer itself as a resource to other NGOs. According to Doe and Teegan, international experts, there are two basic but key resources that are valuable to an NGO: |
| − | #The identity | + | #'''The identity''' of an NGO is often the primary tool used to [[Blogs and Community Groups|communicate]] its message and educate others about its [[Mission Statement|purpose]]. An organization that provides a clear picture of what it stands for and the kind of change it works to advocate attracts other individuals or organizations with similar interests who may want to aid the effort. |
| − | # | + | #'''The Size''' of an NGO is also significant. A larger organization may have more contacts than a smaller one. Furthermore, it may have stronger presence when responding to opposition. |
| − | + | ''In NGOs and Rural Development: Theory and Practice'', Bhose discusses the advantages to networking between organizations and constructing partnerships that include, but are not limited to the following: | |
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| − | In NGOs and Rural Development: Theory and Practice, Bhose discusses the advantages to networking between organizations and constructing partnerships that include, but are not limited to the following: | ||
#Since most organizations that are volunteer-based like NGOs operate on a small-scale and with limited staff, there can be a tendency toward isolation. Being part of a network imparts a global context to local work. | #Since most organizations that are volunteer-based like NGOs operate on a small-scale and with limited staff, there can be a tendency toward isolation. Being part of a network imparts a global context to local work. | ||
#Many NGOs work towards alleviating social, political, and economical injustices as well as the preservation of our natural environment. This often leads to tension with conflicting sectors, and a network or partnership of individuals or organizations is a stronger force than acting singularly. | #Many NGOs work towards alleviating social, political, and economical injustices as well as the preservation of our natural environment. This often leads to tension with conflicting sectors, and a network or partnership of individuals or organizations is a stronger force than acting singularly. | ||
Revision as of 10:22, 12 August 2008
“NGOs work in a society as institutions in their own right and through negotiation with other institutional actors to achieve their interests. Their success in working in society depends to a great extent on their ability to influence others in their environments…”(Doh and Teegan 217)
Optimally, networks have the potential to benefit Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in the areas of organizational development, performance, and advocacy. Likewise, the means for education and partnership multiply when NGOs connect with other NGOs or organizations. The Bureau of Democracy, Conflict and Humanitarian Assistance study, “NGO Networks: Building Capacity in a Changing World,” cites key characteristics shared by most networks and diverse approaches to NGO networking. In analyzing these characteristics and the way that networks function, a brief history of network ideology and NGO networking since the 1980’s, when such partnering practices became more common, provides background to the topic. NGO networks operate in many different areas of society and the circumstances from which they form are likewise varied. It is understood that as the challenges and benefits of NGO networking are negotiated, the present and future of NGO networks will remain a learning process that means continuing to evolve as engines of change.
