Resource Kit

Evolve a CoP

Create Working Groups

Maturing communities may find it useful to form working groups so members are able to remain connected to the CoP as a whole while doing work within a smaller group. A working group is usually organized for a special purpose, is self-managed, and may be comprised of subject matter experts in a particular area. It is often through working groups that experts in a particular discipline can participate more fully.

As workgroups form, they should not lose connection to the CoP. Your community’s learning agenda is fluid and subject to change with members’ needs. Various ways this change may be managed is through exploring new topic areas, creating guidelines, and identifying several approaches to practice.¹ As change takes place, projects will become developmental milestones to the life of the CoP.