Networks - Questions & Answers
Q: Why does Research-Aid Networks work in networks?
A: We at Research-Aid Networks believe that we are better together. Much of our work focuses on building and running networks of organizations and individuals, from different backgrounds, expertises and communities that are all focused on a single mission or topic. Through these networks, organizations can learn from each other, share strengths and resources and collaborate to deliver more effective actions. We support each organization and the network as a whole through facilitation and by bringing in accessible scientific research, resources and expertise. In addition, we provide resources that can be used by any group in any of our networks (e.g. organizational toolkits), all of which allows us to assist many change-making organizations all while keeping a small internal footprint.
Q: What does joining a network look like?
A: If you’re considering joining one of our networks, the first step is to make sure that you understand our approach to networking and how our process works (which is part of the whole point of this guide!). Next we want to understand more about you and your organization so that we can ensure a good fit between all network members but also so that we can identify areas where we might be of most assistance. Once we’re both comfortable with the fit between organizations, we ask that you read and sign our simple partnership agreement and then look forward to welcoming you at our next network meeting.
Q: What does it mean to be part of a network?
A: We hold open online office hours once a week. Partners can join these online meetings whenever they require or want help or advice, whether that be organizational or specific to a certain project.
Once a month we hold a meeting where all partners are invited to attend. Each meeting will have a facilitator but there is not a set agenda nor a lead organization. Instead each organization usually spends a few minutes updating others on their recent activities and the situations they are encountering. This also gives an opportunity for other organizations to share their similar experiences or expertise in support of each other. When it is asked for or helpful, Research-Aid Networks will bring in a subject matter expert who can offer situational assessments or scientific guidance and assessment. Often through these discussions, organizations create or refine new activities and build new collaborative endeavors. When needed or requested, Research-Aid Networks will also assist as a partner in some of these collaborative projects. Overall, the focus of the network is to offer a facilitated opportunity for organizations to come together, learn from each other and support each other to enable more effective actions.
Q: What kind of support does Research-Aid Networks provide and what can I ask for help on?
A: In addition to running the networks and facilitating network meetings, Research-Aid Networks also provides support to our individual partner organizations. This can be in the form of subject matter expertise during the weekly meetings, assistance in collaborative projects or actions or providing resources (e.g. research article libraries or how-to guides) that any partner can use. In addition, we also offer support to individual organizations directly, when needed. This can be assistance in interpreting a recent scientific article, finding a researcher to collaborate with or identifying a specific resource need (e.g. language translation or graphic design). We won’t always be able to accommodate every request, but we strive for open communication with our partners and welcome inquiries for specific additional support.
