How networks and networking can improve governance

Networks can foster constructive solutions

• They help you develop ideas—on the basis that two heads are better than one.
• They share knowledge and best practice.

Networks are flexible and responsive

• They adapt how they work to suit the issue at hand or to accommodate future potential.

Networks create close relationships and ties, shared priorities and goals

• They encourage better accountability to members of the network.

Networks can be a source of information and support

• They facilitate sharing and discussion of issues of common interest, such as new laws and regulations, technological developments and best practices.

Decisions reached by networks can be more legitimate and easier to implement

• They will represent a consensus of views of a broad group of people.
• They might take longer but are likely to be more sustainable and widely supported.

Networks can link the national and regional to the local level

• They bring different players together—communities, regional and national agencies, governments and organisations.
• They are important for small remote groups and organisations.

Networks encourage the exchange of knowledge and build new skills

• They can make new skills and resources more accessible—via outside experts, shared knowledge, staff exchanges and secondments, and mentoring.

Networks can benefit from economies of scale

• They can share costs and scarce resources, assets and capacities.
• They facilitate wider agreements and partnership.

Networks improve your reputation

• Locally, in other cities or even overseas.