S123 ENGAGING COMMUNITIES TO ACHIEVE SUSTAINABLE RURAL AND AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT

Effective Regional Improvement and Innovation Networks - Critical Success Factors and Critical Failure Factors

Madzivhandila P1*, Agravante M2*, Maleza Z3*, Clark R4*, Bond H4*, McCartney A4*, Stewart P4* and Timms J4*

1. Agricultural Research Council, South Africa
2. Leyte Improvement and Innovation Network, Philippines
3. Department of Agriculture, Eastern Cape Provincial Government, South Africa
4. Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia

Effective and sustainable networks don’t just happen by chance. They happen by design. In this paper we draw on experience, methods and results from projects that have established regional improvement and innovation networks in the Philippines, South Africa and Queensland.

The paper highlights both Critical Success Factors and Critical Failure Factors that can be used to inform the design and management of networks. Principles that contribute to the effectiveness and sustainability of networks are identified. These include network size, the management of the network over time, necessary functions, shared processes and tools, and developing and managing institutional support.

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