Communities of Practice Guideline
Likely Areas of Activity and Key Outputs of a CoP
A CoP prepares an annual work plan. While the specific content will vary, the work plan should reflect the overall objectives of a CoP as set out in the ToR [eg putting policy into good practice; promoting good practice, developing skills, and promoting learning; and sharing information through outreach activities]. The type and number of outputs should reflect a CoP’s priorities and the agreed level of engagement by its members. In the work plan, key outputs would be identified for each objective with a designated lead (person responsible for its completion) and timelines (see Annex 3). Indicative outputs may include:
- Monitoring policy implementation | A CoP may decide to monitor progress in policy implementation, discuss progress and identify measures to strengthen implementation. The CoP may propose minor updates to policy, however if a new policy is required, AIDMGT would mandate a Policy Team to undertake this.
- Identifying Policy Coherence for Development (PCD) priorities | An important role for CoPs is to identify key areas for PCD engagement. Priorities areas may emerge because of external factors (response to government priorities; events) or recognition of an area being of key importance for whole of government engagement. Identified priorities should be communicated to the Policy Coherence for Development Coordinator (in the Policy Coordination Team in SAEG).
- Improving Practice | A CoP can promote and support best practice in NZAID’s planning, implementation, review and evaluation through discussion of progamme challenges and successes, or through the preparation of fact sheets and knowledge notes.
- Sharing information | Information sharing is a critical role of a CoP and activities to facilitate updating staff (including at Posts) on good practice and relevant or emerging issues should be included in its work plan.
Means of Communication
Four main methods of communication are available to CoPs:
- The CoP dedicated site on the NZAID intranet includes each CoP’s ToR, meeting schedule, agendas, minutes, work plan, and reports. Papers and information relevant to the CoP can also be posted.
- Briefings by core members at programme group meetings.
- Friday forums (which can include presentations by NZAID staff or practitioners from other agencies or organisation)
- Catch up cafes.