Power On Network
What’s the Power On Network?
The Power On Network (PON) is a community of practice that brings together organizers and tech people to share their knowledge of the best practices of technology use in community organizing. PON members have access to the following:
- a private web site for sharing resources and advice
- a membership directory where members can find mentors and offer mentorship
- frequent online presentations (a.k.a. webinars) about the latest in technology
- an organizing technology convening where members will meet, have fun, and learn from one another
The Power On Network is the Progressive Technology Project’s ongoing strategy for improving the use of technology in the field of community organizing by building and sustaining a community of practice – a consciously designed peer-to-peer network of people who share similar goals, interests, and employed common practices. Members exchange information and resources related to using technology to support organizing work.
Why do individuals and organizations want to get involved?
The Power On Network promotes and strengthens new and existing collaborations, generates innovative practices, contributes to refining the skills and practices of its members, facilitates correspondence between members who need immediate solutions and advice, and encourages organizers and tech people to share organizing practices across organizations.
How can PON Members participate in the network?
- Periodic conference calls and online meetings on topics related to organizing and technology
- Membership in technology-specific interest groups or “practitioner circles”
- Access to a membership directory identifying individual skills and interest to facilitate direct contact between individuals
- A private intranet for technology and knowledge sharing
- Opportunities to exchange experiences in the best uses of technology with other members through organizational site visits and organizing technology convenings
How did the PON start?
PTP believes that the solution to the limited resource dilemma is linked to the way groups learn best – from the groups and individuals they know and trust. We have therefore appropriated a knowledge management technique used by successful corporations to spread expertise – the creation of a community of practice – and modified it for our own use.
In 2006, PTP recruited a nucleus of participants from graduates of our training programs to discuss the strategy and direction for a community of practice – now known as the Power On Network. The network held an initial convening in Atlanta in February of 2007 and sponsored events at the US Social Forum. PTP has been working with organizers and tech people to develop a series of activities and resources to make the Power On Network accessible to a wider base of participants.
Please note: We’re currently transitioning to a new database (PowerBase, of course). The organization information form and the directory profile form are out of service. Thanks for your patience during our transition.
