What energy do we need to find and why?

The 'domain' or 'area of shared interest' is one of the three core characteristics of a CoP. 

It is our interest in the domain and the energy it generates, that enables relationships to form, the willingness to share experiences, openness to develop skills and the opportunity for new insights and knowledge to generate.

Whether you are looking to set up a CoP from scratch or renew your CoP focus, the first stage in the cycle of a CoP is to find the energy.

How do we find it?

To find the energy, you need to understand:

  • who is interested in the 'domain'
  • what specific areas they are interested in
  • what they wish to gain from the CoP

And most importantly:

Depending on whether you are starting from scratch or looking to renew, edit and circulate the relevant template:

In accompanying communications, also include a Privacy notice

Circulate the survey using formal and informal groups and networks, across different areas of the University.  You can also connect with other staff networks or communities of practice to connect into different fora.