A buddying scheme for mutual help and advice

A system of buddying or exchange visits may benefit an organisation willing to share its experience of working with ICT with another organisation, or may help organisations looking to develop an area of ICT by seeing what others have achieved.

Discussion

Similar to the previous model of passing on expertise, this version is perhaps more replicable within the sector. Typically two organisations with similar problems, challenges, or areas of interest agree to help each other, sharing insights and experience. Ideally, a co-ordinating body is still a requirement, though arrangements could be more ad-hoc and self-managed. Organisations would typically give staff time to each other for free. However, as real direct costs are incurred (e.g. travel), bursary schemes are being developed to help.

Ideally, some form of reporting on learning and benefits will capture the buddying experience, so others can learn both how best to benefit and what learning has emerged.

Pros

• can promote genuine collaboration at little or no cash cost
• can take place informally and be self-managed by two partners
• may lead to other models of ICT collaboration (eg joint purchasing)

Cons

• may require organisations with similar levels of demand, or clear 'ground rules' so that exchanges are equitable
• a weaker or very needy organisation may make unreasonable demands on a stronger buddy
• not suitable for fire-fighting, or fixing breakdowns
• no access to outside guidance, may lead to replication of mistakes or narrow vision of what is possible

Case studies: ICT Hub and Community First.