What We've Learned So Far

What Have We Learned About Global Solution Networks Anthony D. Williams Executive Editor Global Solution Networks

The origins of GSN insight 1.

Deep understanding of the global problems we are trying to solve

2.

A granular understanding of how GSN achieve efficacy and legitimacy

3.

Primary research and case studies

4.

Conversations with diverse stakeholders and end beneficiaries

5.

Reverse engineering success and failure

6.

Distilling practical insights and recommendations

7.

Persuasive communication to influence the agenda and drive change

10 Types of Global Solution Networks

Knowledge Networks build a transparent evidence base for understanding & resolving issues with stakeholders

Knowledge Networks leaders are harnessing mass collaboration, but the majority are not

Advocacy Networks increase awareness and engagement; they are not well-positioned to actually deliver change

Policy Networks open up the potential for global citizen engagement and could help address the democratic deficit

Standards Networks supplant state-based rulemaking and are increasingly important to global problem solving

Governance Networks evolve through an evolutionary process of dialogue and negotiation among stakeholders

Governance Networks achieve governance with contrasting models based on hard and soft power

ODNs: maximizing impact means integrating self-organized volunteer networks with traditional service providers

Platforms: the difference between old, analogue networks, and real-time, smart, scalable and impactful networks

Crowdfunding

Mentoring & education

Advocacy & petitions

Open source mapping

Digital brainstorming

Prediction markets

Real-time monitoring

Big data analytics

Watchdog Networks and local crowdsourcing makes for a powerful combination that can amplify reach & impact

How can you or your organization engage in global problem solving through GSNs?

Find an honest broker or “orchestrator� who can convene a network of stakeholders to solve a problem

Start an advocacy network that makes its impossible for powerful stakeholders to ignore important problems

Open up valuable resources that other stakeholders can contribute to and build on

Accelerate innovation by placing your intellectual property in the public domain

Launch a challenge around an intractable problem; build on the ideas and networks it generates

Find good ideas and initiatives that work at the local level; replicate and scale them around the world

Partner with a profitable business with a social mission to provide the foundation for a sustainable network

Launch a crowdfunding campaign and build a community around your idea to change the world

Questions and discussion • What potential applications do you see for GSNs? • What insights about networks can you share from your experience?

• Have you encountered challenges in building or participating in networks?

• What else would you like to learn about global solution networks?