How to create and sustain peer networks for open data leaders reviews the theory and practice behind peer networks as a method for building leadership capacity.
Its main purpose is to help organisations, researchers and global development practitioners to create successful peer networks that support leaders implementing open data initiatives, whether in the private or public sector.
Peer networks have emerged as a popular means of developing leadership and sharing knowledge in different areas. This report explores peer networks, their key features and what makes them most effective. It also raises ongoing challenges, such as how to sustain a network beyond initial engagement stages.
Drawing lessons from a body of literature on network theory and peer network evaluations, we propose recommendations for organisations or practitioners interested in convening peer networks to support open data leadership (though they are also broadly applicable to other fields).
This report was supported by the Open Data for Development (OD4D) programme, a partnership funded by Canada’s International Development Research Centre (IDRC), the World Bank, The UK Department for International Development (DfID), and Global Affairs Canada (GAC).