WorkNet Development

Monitor Networks assists clients in developing unique networks and communities (WorkNets) that help solve their business and innovation challenges. We typically build networks in three phases:

Phase 1: Network Design and Plan

Before a company decides to create a network it needs to create the blueprint and have a plan. The why, whos, and whats need to be thought through before a network is assembled. Monitor Networks has a proprietary methodology that assists in addressing the critical design elements for a network. We call this method WorkNets because we believe that the work and purpose of a network must be decided upon before the members are targeted and a technology is chosen to support it. The work should drive the network.

Phase 2: Launching the Network

Once a blueprint is created, the focus turns to recruiting the network members and communicating the value proposition. A successful, innovative WorkNet often requires a diverse (across geography, discipline and industry) core group of talent who are peers. Monitor Networks has unique expertise in identifying and recruiting particular talent through its TalentNetwork. Often a core group event will begin the official launch of the network to bring excitement, energy and jumpstart the network activities. It is also in this phase that the appropriate technology components (e.g.; website, forums, webcasts, events) are assembled and made available. Monitor Networks has deep experience in creating unique experiential events that serve to catalyze a WorkNet and has created distinctive technology platforms that support it.

Phase 3: Managing the Network

Most WorkNets require leadership and it typically is initially supplied by the host. The reason most communities wither is because the networks lose their heartbeat. In a well-designed WorkNet, there is a plan that has considered the appropriate rhythm of communication for the network. It is the WorkNet manager’s job to execute against the plan, build relationships with network members and maintain the desired level of communication, activity and energy to sustain member interest and accomplish the defined work. In the planning phase, desired milestones and outcomes should have been identified so that the manager will be able to identify when course corrections are necessary. Although it is often in the client’s best interests to manage the networks themselves, Monitor Networks can advise the manager or supply interim management until the client has the resources necessary to manage the WorkNet.

For more information about WorkNets, please contact Jim Park, james_park@monitor.com.