Community-Based Agreements: Strengthening Collaboration in Use-Inspired Research and Education
The Community-Based Agreements Umbrella Working Group brought attention to a crucial yet often overlooked element in UIRE: how collaborators function together. By focusing on the development of sociocratic approaches to collaboration, this working group is paving the way for more transparent, equitable, and trust-filled partnerships that drive impactful research.
Building the Framework: Community Agreements in Practice
Central to this initiative is the emphasis on community-based agreements, which serve as the backbone for transparent decision-making structures, conflict prevention, and trust-building among collaborators. Recognizing the importance of accessible resources, the working group developed a comprehensive seven-page guide dedicated to initiating, organizing, and maintaining cross-sector collaborations. This document not only highlights best practices but also provides actionable templates for structuring meetings and fostering inclusive participation.
Click here to access the guide.
The guide empowers research teams and collaborators with tools to navigate challenges, align on shared goals, and create a culture of accountability and respect. These practices ensure that all voices are valued and that decisions are made collaboratively, reflecting the diverse perspectives present within a group.
Exploring Governance Structures: Sociocracy in Action
To enhance their efforts, the working group also delved into the sociocracy governance model, a system that emphasizes equality, transparency, and effectiveness in collaborative decision-making. This exploration included the development of a community of practice, where members can share experiences, refine methods, and collectively improve governance processes.
In support of these efforts, the working group organized a bi-weekly book club dedicated to texts on collaborative governance. This forum offered a space for participants to engage deeply with key concepts, discuss challenges, and draw inspiration from a range of approaches to governance and group dynamics.
Investing in Long-Term Impact
One of the group’s achievements was also enabling an early-career researcher to receive in-depth training through the Sociocracy For All (SoFA) organization. This training not only enhanced the researcher’s expertise but also positioned them as a resource for future initiatives, amplifying the long-term impact of the working group’s activities. By cultivating leadership and capacity-building, the group ensures that their work resonates beyond their immediate efforts.
Collaboration for the Future
The Community-Based Agreements working group exemplifies how intentional focus on governance and collaboration can transform use-inspired research. By providing practical tools, fostering dialogue, and investing in education, they are helping to build a research culture rooted in trust, transparency, and shared accountability.
Members of UWG #2: Community Based Agreements included Chloe' Vorseth and Kathe Todd-Brown.
Work related to this post was funded under NSF Grant #FAIN-2309541.