ORE is a bigger tent for the KBW community, find out more here.
Almost exactly a year ago, we wrote a post looking at Emily Webber’s Community of Practice Maturity Model in association with the KBW community. A short time later, we wrote about the growth and dynamic of this community, which we then “studied” with our post on collecting data in a community of practice. With a growing number of members and a sense of shared purpose, it’s time to check in on our maturity once again.
We’re happy to report that the community has made significant progress towards becoming a fully matured and self-sustaining entity. Our new branding reflects our need for a bigger tent, and our data is showing growth both in size and engagement.
Greater impact and visibility
Since collecting our baseline data, our community has grown by 18%. Such an increase in membership means we have a greater impact both within our own field and beyond. Community members are collaborating on projects and initiatives that have helped to advance our shared goals. We’ve also been able to raise our profile through events, community calls, and other forms of outreach. We feel that we are part of something bigger than ourselves, and that our collective efforts are making a meaningful difference in the world.
Increased participation
We’ve also seen an 11% increase in “active” engagement. The engagement activities we look at are whether or not people have introduced themselves, starting or commenting on posts, or attendance in community calls. More people are engaging and more people are engaging in multiple ways.
Our concerted effort to reach out to individuals and groups who had expressed interest in our community but had not yet become fully engaged has paid off. We have worked to have more structured opportunities for people and our pointed cadence has help us mature as a community. Our goal is always a more vibrant and dynamic community, with a wider range of perspectives and experiences represented.
Improved governance and decision-making
A key aspect of community maturity is the ability to make decisions and govern ourselves in a way that is transparent, inclusive, and responsive to the needs of all members. We’ve held off on establishing a more formal governance structure, choosing instead to work collectively, mostly in our monthly community call. There’s been a small increase in participation in this call, so clearly word is getting around that all members have a voice in shaping the direction of the community. We’ve become better at documenting our decisions and sharing information about our activities, which has helped to build trust and foster a sense of collective ownership.
Community maturity is an ongoing process
There is always more work to be done, and we know that community maturity is an ongoing process rather than a destination. But we’re proud of how far we’ve come, and we’re excited about the possibilities opening up for Open Recognition is for Everybody.
We look forward to sharing more updates as our journey continues. Join us!