The FAN approach Free Actors in Networks Eelke

The FAN approach Free Actors in Networks Eelke Wielinga

A new generation of tools for networkers Extension < > facilitating change n n Technology transfer < > Search & learn processes Extension agent < > knowledge worker l Adding value to learning processes

The process of innovation Look beyond the corner Idea >> ambition Start initiative Look for allies Get them enthusiastic Share ambition Build a network Make plans Start experimenting Get money Agree upon plans with partners Hope and pray Translate plans into requirements of funding agencies

The process of innovation Look beyond the corner Idea >> ambition Start initiative Look for allies Get them enthusiastic Share ambition Build a network Make plans Start experimenting Get money Agree upon plans with partners Hope and pray Translate plans into requirements of funding agencies

The process of innovation Look beyond the corner Idea >> ambition Start initiative Look for allies Get them enthusiastic Share ambition Build a network Start experimenting Make plans Agree upon plans with partners

Networks: what’s so special?

Tools for networkers: a new generation

Tools for networkers: a new generation Network analysis n Positions of involvement l l l Which actors involved? How can we connect? Which positions do they take? Which key players are lacking? Network to build on?

Tools for networkers: a new generation Spiral of Innovations n Stages in innovation process l l How far has the idea been developed? Next step? What type of knowledge required? Which actors to be involved?

Tools for networkers: a new generation Triangle for Change n Steering on energy l l l Who are generating energy for change? In what order should actors be approached? Proper timing?

Tools for networkers: a new generation Circle of Coherence n Patterns of interaction l l How healthy? What connection is limiting factor? What intervention is most effective? Warm and/or cold intervention?

Tools for networkers: a new generation Important events? + / - ? Time line method bla bla bla blabla bla blablabla bla blabla October bla bla blabla July April april January blabla bla blabla When did the penny drop?

Tools for networkers: a new generation

Free actors in networks Level of action n. Facilitator >> free actor n. Recognise situation n. Respond effectively Level of structure n. Freedom to act n. Connections to maintain trust

The FAN approach in 5 statements n n n Initiatives of farmers are a good starting point for sustainable innovations Networks require a free actor to realise an innovative change Knowledge workers as temporary free actors can do the job Subject matter knowledge is important for facilitators in the role of free actor Appropriate tools and a structure for reflection are necessary for subject matter specialists as free actors

The end

The end

Fourth story: knowledge as responsive capacity

living networks autonomous specialisation diversification as long as connections keep working

living networks healthy sick • networks are self organising • responsive capacity <> connection • loss of responsive capacity < blockages • leadership = removing blockages > restore connection • structure: creating a favourable biotope