The following tools are available to those either leading CoPs or those interested
in leading CoPs. A brief description for each tool is provided
with links to the right which allow you to Download the tool.
Requirements Analysis Matrix: This matrix includes detailed functional and non-functional requirements for technology that supports a Community of Practice. Major functional areas include document/content management, expertise management, and personalization.
Membership Survey Tool: Identifying membership and key roles are critical to developing CoP. This tool provides a technique for identifying key roles, membership, and when they should become involved. Social Network Analysis (SNA) should be used to fully describe the community. Users are directed to the link on SNA for more information.
Performance Measurement: Tracking performance measurement is critical for CoP performance. The presentation below describes the USAID CoP Pilot projects approach and some of the measures they used.
Maturity Models: Maturity models are tools used to assess the development of a CoP and determine where they are in the development process. This tool allows you to assess your CoP's maturity and where you should go in this web site to find information.
Social Network Analysis: CoPs needs to understand not only who and where experts are, but also how knowledge typically flows through human channels in the organization. CoP should consider performing a social networking analysis (SNA) to understand the flow, bottlenecks, and critical roles that enable the communication and knowledge exchange processes (e.g., boundary spanner, broker). CoPs should then organize business processes and KM solutions around this natural knowledge flow.
Techniques for Creating Communities of Practice: Starting a CoP really can be an easy process. Learn about what a CoP is, how you can start your own, and lessons learned from other efforts.
