What are the advantages of building an organization from scratch instead of just building a network of groups that are pulled together?
A:
- It enables us to have a more cohesive organization with common philosophy, organizational style, and strategy for change.
- Many of us are looking for more involvement than is possible in a network of groups with widely varying styles. Some people are looking for an intentional community where personal growth and politics are seen as important parts of a comprehensive movement for change. Many traditional organizations (not all) have a uni-dimensional approach to change, usually emphasizing the political work.
- It is necessary in a close network to have some agreement as to decision-making process. If some groups in a network insist on voting while others insist on a consensus approach, it will be hard to work together effectively unless decisions are avoided all together.
- Some groups have hierarchical structure (presidents, chair-people, etc.) while others operate collectively. In a loose alliance this is not a problem, but if you are trying to co-exist in a close organization problems will erupt.
Sources: Building Social Change Communities
Contributors: Peter Woodrow, The Training/Action Affinity Group of Movement for a New Society
Recommended Books: Building Social Change Communities
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