Bridges To Knowledge: A Blog by Barry Camson

Value Propositions In Networks

We are learning that networks as a means of conducting business or creating social change cannot be treated like our traditional "bricks and mortar" organizations. This is true for both networks made up of individuals and those composed of member organizations. It is important to understand how networks differ from traditional organizations. This, in turn, leads us to changing the way we respond to networks in our efforts to help develop and improve them. Thinking of networks in terms of their value propositions can be very helpful in working effectively with networks.

Emergence and Serendipity in Networks

What is the role of emergence and serendipity in networks? More significantly, what is the role of both of these with regard to innovation in networks?

I define serendipity as those synchronous moments when different trend lines converge in an unexpected manner that lead to innovation. My view may not conform to the official definition of serendipity which is "an aptitude for making desirable discoveries by accident." An example might be the discovery of penicillin. I am more inclined toward the idea that we put in place conditions that lead to the emergence of innovations which we can then call serendipity.