PARTNER Method
Network Strategy Guide
Visible Network Labs
Network Strategy Guide extract taken from the PARTNER Playbook
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HOW TO USE THIS DECK
Step 1: Download the network
strategy worksheet HERE - This is a
This deck focuses on step companion document.
2 of our proven PARTNER
method. It provides
context for how to use the Step 2: Go through this deck step by
accompanying strategy step and follow along with the
worksheet. worksheet
Step 3: Watch our recorded webinars
(see last slide) for a more context.
Before we get started..
Who is the audience for this
deck?
Use this deck with your leadership team or your whole
network. The goal is to understand the network's
current strategy and compare that to members' vision
of your ideal future network strategy.
The PARTNER Methodology
What is the PARTNER Method?
The PARTNER Methodology helps shift mindsets
to view partnerships and collaboration with a
network science lens. It shapes a network
strategy and tracks the network of partners over
time.
PARTNER Method allows organizations to
continually adapt their strategy and enact
changes to improve the collaborative process
and reach the network objectives.
PARTNER Method 1. Shift to a Network Science Mindset
Explore alternatives to the more is better concept.
has 5 core steps 2. Design an Intentional Network Strategy
Set benchmarks for where things are and where they
should be.
3. Track Collect and Analyze Data
Focus on the metrics and features you need to ensure that
the data collected can inform your strategy.
4. Adapt the Strategy Based on Data Insight
Develop a learning plan that includes a protocol for review
and digestion of the data coming in, an agreed-upon
method for adapting the strategy, a template to use for
assessing status of strategy, dissemination and
communication to stakeholders.
The PARTNER Method is built around five core 5. Enact the Updated Strategy
elements. Together these elements help develop Translate the data to practice
an intentional data-driven network strategy.
Step 1
Shift to a Network Science Mindset
Fewer connections, thoughtfully selected
to maximize bridging ties might bring the
same collaborative advantage with fewer
needed resources.
Step 2
Design an Intentional Network Strategy
The Dimensions
Type Purpose Membership Outcomes
Governance Stage Lifecycle Management
Structure & Diversity, Assessment,
Quantity of Equity & Evaluation&
interactions Inclusion Learning
What type of network is it?
Types of Networks
• Social Impact
A single • Cohort
organization can be • Community of Practice
involved in multiple
types of networks. • Association/ Membership
Organization
• Alliance/ Coalition
• Regenerative
What is the primary purpose of the
network?
Common network purposes
• Share
Multiple choices • Discover
may apply • Develop
• Deliver
• Scale
Let’s talk about the membership
Who are the members What is the level of What is the expectation How is membership What roles are members What resources are
of the network? turnover within the of the network decided? assigned / expected to members expected to
network membership? member’s participation? play? contribute?
Focusing on outcomes
What outcomes are the network How is the network working What contributes to network
working towards successfully? towards achieving its goals/ success?
outcomes?
What is the intended lifecycle of the
network?
How a network forms, grows and moves beyond a ”more is better” strategy
What stage of development is the
network in currently?
Catalyzing
Launching
Organizing
Performing & Adapting
Transitioning or Transforming
Ending
How is the network managed?
How is the network facilitated?
What is the communication structure/ flow?
How is conflict managed in a network?
How are challenges and opportunities managed in the
network?
How do you ensure the network is diverse,
equitable, and inclusive to all?
Does your network have a Are the systems in place
clear definition of to address the diversity,
diversity, equity, and / or equity and inclusion in the
inclusion? network?
How do you assess, evaluate and learn?
What are the outcomes upon which the network is
measuring its impact?
How is it being tracked?
PARTNER Method + PARTNER Platform
We have recorded webinars to help
guide you!
Our very own Dr. Danielle Varda has recorded webinars in the
past that have gone through step by step of this methodology.
These videos from the 2020 Network Leadership Training
Academy walk you through the main four steps of the Method.
1. Designing your network strategy
2. Tracking your network strategy
3. Collecting data to inform strategy
4. Translating network data into insight for your strategy