Document Type

Article

Publication Date

4-2026

Abstract

The book Impact Networks by David Erlichman, published in 2021, provides a comprehensive picture of how impact networks are working throughout the world on complex issues. Such networks move beyond hierarchical structures that are based on authority. Organizations within networks share at least one purpose and define their success as network participants based on their impact on the network issue, not on agency growth.

This paper is focused on local use of impact networks to address difficult issues that do not have clear pathways to solutions. Our experience with a network formed more than 30 years ago in response to the deaths of a number of children due to parental neglect or abuse informed our thinking. The Montgomery County Child Protection Task Force (1993-95) demonstrated a network way of thinking and acting, as opposed to traditional approaches based entirely on individual agency accountability.

Some key elements of networks that we think work at the local level are included in Creating a Community Change Network that we describe. What characterizes all impact networks is their focus on developing relationships and trust. By sharing the challenges with others in the community who are willing to work together to develop a shared vision and collaborative approaches, the burden of community leadership becomes an opportunity to lead in a new way that leverages relationships to produce results. Critical community issues in the twenty-first century are bigger than any individual person or organization.

Comments

This paper is provided at the request of the author; permission documentation is on file. 

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