Collaborate 2 worksheets
These worksheets are based on the learning from HACT’s Collaborate 2 resource sharing pilots project, and should be read in conjunction with the HACT Collaborate 2 microsite.
This was a year-long project which worked with four clusters of small, community-based housing support providers to develop a range of approaches to sharing resources; the overall aim was to use resource sharing as a way for cluster members to build their collective capacity and influence.
Download An introduction to Collaborate 2
Download Worksheet 1: Why clustering?
This worksheet gives an overview of the project model for resource-sharing clusters developed in HACT’s Collaborate 2 project. It is a brief introduction to the concept of a cluster, and some of the key stages in the process of designing and delivering a resource sharing initiative.
Download Worksheet 2: Stage 1 - forming the cluster.
This worksheet sets out some of the key learning points on establishing successful clusters which emerged from the pilot phase of the Collaborate project.
Download Worksheet 3: Stage 2 - finding the focus.
This worksheet describes the process by which a cluster’s Core Group can identify the issues its members have in common, and sift through them to come up with a short list of topics for a more detailed feasibility investigation. This stage is vital, not only for its own sake, but because it gives cluster members the first real opportunity to get to know each other, and to cement relationships by working together.
Download Worksheet 4: Stage 3 - developing the work plan.
This worksheet suggests ways in which your cluster’s Core Group can approach the task of working up achievable plans from the initial shortlist of ideas generated by the Finding The Focus stage. It provides examples of approaches used elsewhere and ideas for resources for you to use.
Download Worksheet 5: Stage 4 - taking it forward.
The aim of this sheet is to set out a few points that may help you to reflect on some of the issues that can arise as clusters move out of the formative stage and into maturity.
Download Worksheet 6: twelve top tips.
This sheet provides twelve top tips for clustering.
Download Worksheet 7: IT tools for collaboration.
The first part of this worksheet introduces you to three free programmes which can be extremely helpful in developing the work of your cluster. The second part provides instructions on how to access and use the ICT-based diagnostic tools on the HACT Collaborate 2 microsite.
Download Worksheet 8: resources and contacts.
This worksheet provides links to the websites of various organisations which may be of use to you in developing the work of your cluster. It is by no means exhaustive – as with all these things, one link leads to another, but hopefully you will find at least some of these to be useful points of departure.
Download all nine worksheets