A few weeks ago I attended a training to become a Net-Map facilitator.  Net-Map is an interview-based mapping tool that helps people understand, visualize, discuss, and improve situations in which many different actors influence outcomes.  People doing a Net-Map clarify their view of a situation, foster rich discussion, and develop a strategic approach to their networking activities. More specifically, Net-Map helps users determine:

• what actors are involved in a given network,
• how they are linked,
• how influential they are, and
• what their goals are. 

Determining linkages, levels of influence, and goals allows users to be more strategic about how they act in these complex situations. It helps users to answer questions such as:  Do you need to strengthen the links to an influential potential supporter (high influence, same goals)? Do you have to be aware of an influential actor who doesn’t share your goals? Can increased networking help empower your dis-empowered residents or citizens?

I think Net-Mapping is a terrific tool for local governments that are interested in exploring in more depth their connections and the networks around them on a given topic.  For example, a group of local government officials may want to internally explore “Who influences – positively and negatively – which citizens are most actively engaged?”  Or a county Board of Supervisors might ask, “Who influences our desire to revitalize our small towns?”  Or a Public Works Division might want to discuss “Who influences the image we have with our customers, colleagues, and other parts of government?”

Several folks connected with ICMA are finding Net-Mapping useful in our work.  If you would like to explore possibly using Net-Mapping in your community, please contact me or directly contact the people at Net-Map  (http://netmap.wordpress.com)