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A community effort starts off by creating a vision for the community that sets the goals and defines its purpose. The community then begins to immediately develop a relevant knowledge base and to actively work to extend the membership. Both FC staff and key community members must provide "feedback" to properly stimulate and inspire the community at key moments. Following emergence theory, we assume that higher levels of order will "emerge" out of (to coin a phrase) "the momentum of excitement" among the community members. We would hope that the higher levels of order in this case will result in collaborative activities to develop software, define a new standard, marshal forces to advocate for important actions, etc.The Vision
A statement of possilibity
A vision statement of possility is an initial condition for the development of a community. Much like a mission statement, it should be a very concise expression of the reason vision for the community's existence potential and its motivation to develop. The statement of possibility should be concise and clear in order to give new potential participants a good idea of what the intentions of the group will be
The Knowledge Base
This is an organized expression of best knowledge about the community and its activities, and relevant information, more generally. For us this probably means a wiki, both of new information and of annotated links to information out on the web.
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- The Steward: The main task for the steward is to develop and maintain the vision. This role also makes sure the community can function properly and has the resources it needs. It provides that driving force to get it going and nudges it to keep it moving. This is what we have been calling the "champion.". In the beginning the steward may work in all of the roles in order to get things rolling. Getting virtual and face-to-face meetings established is key to getting things going. Organizing virtual meetings for the organizing group is a part of this. Scheduling birds-of-feather meetings at appropriate conferences and meetings is another.
- The Knowledge gardener: This role that ensures that the community's knowledge base develops and grows. It can be editorial as well as shepherding, nudging the community to share info. Getting a starting version of the knowledge base established is one of the key activities to attract new members.
- The Evangelist: This role brings new members that are well suited and have valuable things to offer into the community. Initially this is a key role in finding and bringing in highly motivated people, but is only necessary for as long as the community needs to have its growth stimulated.
- The Sherpa: This role provides stimulation to the community through feedback, acting more as the catalyst. Generally, this is probably the role of the Director of Community Strategy and other FC staff.