Building Communities: Stage 1

Stage 1 Helps you to set up a new community. 

Click to open and close each question.

  1. 1What does the community want to achieve?

    Identify a common purpose shared by all members.  This is important for the community's future success and sustainability. 

    Define the community's purpose through a process of discussion and reflection to reach shared goals. 

    List the benefits of membership - this will encourage people to join.

    Things to do:
    Self-assessment table / Notes This helps a community to assess and reach its potential.

    Template for statement of purpose/charter and notes to help. This helps the community stay focused and can increase the understanding of the benefits of membership.

  2. 2Is there a need for a community of practice in this subject area?

    Investigate if other communities exist in this topic or subject.

    Things to do:
    Look at the existing MKNs and communities on My Community Space tab on Knowledge for Care Scotland.

    Is there an existing e-Library portal in this area of practice? This may provide information relevant to your community.  

  3. 3Which electronic tool would best meet the needs of the community?

    Electronic tools aid communication within the community. Link to Tools

    NHS Education provides two collaboration tools communities can use:

    • Shared Space service provides a closed virtual workspace. More info 
    • Community websites enable groups to develop websites. More info

    Both are available via My Community Space. Request a community

  4. 4What will be the main output or outcome of the community?

    Ensures the community maintains focus throughout its existence.

    Defining goals and output at an early stage provides a framework and indicators to measure the community's success and value.

    Things to do:
    Post any relevant documentation in the Community repository to provide a constant reference for all community members.

    Defining output is also important in order to develop the various roles within the community.

  5. 5Does the community have a short or long term life span?

    Review dates should be established when the community is formed.    

    At review stage, the community looks back at original goals, asks questions and considers next steps.

    For example, should it re-form as a different community, join another community, create sub-groups or discontinue?

    Things to do:
    After an agreed period of time, contact group members to find out if they still feel there is a need for the service.

    Community leaders could send out a questionnaire to evaluate and review the service.  One service you could use is Survey Monkey survey builder.

    The MKN team can provide assistance contact mkn@nes.scot.nhs.uk

    Self-assessment table helps to suggest a review period for the community.