Start a Regional Cluster

Starting or sponsoring a local KM Cluster is simple and costs nothing. The biggest risk is making the startup process too complicated. Most important is to pick a good theme - practice, tool and theory oriented themes work best.

Here are four simple start-up tasks:

• Chose a date - Fridays are popular; allow 6-8 weeks advanced notice. 

• Find an attractive venue - Companies and institutions are best, avoid hotels.

• Get great speakers - try to triangulate practice, tools and theory.

• attract participants (promote).

Here are guidelines in a quick 'top-ten' format and some additional notes.

10.) Keep it simple.
9.) Focus on participants, conversation and relationships.
8.) Determine an event theme and stick with it.
7.) Communicate logistics early, clearly and frequently.
6.) Drive federated action/research.
5.) Avoid product focus or vendor marketing; practice agnosticism.
4.) Choose a centrally located, corporate or public venue.
3.) Promote quarterly community, rhythm & continuity, i.e., no 'one-time' events.
2.) Triangulate academia, practice and management.
1.) Have fun!

Additional notes.

Facilitation is key and experience is important. Capture the event in written notes. Don't set objectives, but leave 30 minutes at the end to debrief the experience and solicit improvements.

The primary and most important aspect is social interaction, conversation and building relationships. Participant reportage & reflection on events, Next Practices™, books or related KM activities is better that an encounter group format.

Friday's are best. A lot of feedback from the KM Cluster is that people welcome a 'time-out' to think and discuss. Reflection, introspection and, well, deliberate thinking, are becoming a greater and greater percentage of work in the knowledge economy.

Logistics, setting and accommodations are key. The tempo can be fast-paced, but there must be ample white space (breaks). The tendency is to over schedule. Cut back and leave a lot of time for reflection and knowledge sharing. A total of 40 participants helps to maximize interaction. A luncheon in an attractive setting is always welcome.

Pursue excellent keynote speakers. Most welcome the opportunity, even on a pro bono basis. There participation must be based on passion, not profit. Do remember, however, they are doing your community a favor, so be vigilant in answering these questions for them.

• Who are the organizers and sponsors: Are they reputable? (KM Cluster - yes!)

•  What is the audience size and composition?

•  Who are the other speakers?

•  What is the format? Prepared presentation, panel discussion or Q&A?

•  What is the theme/topic? Is this predetermined?

•  When is a reply required?

•  What is the time slot? How long? Questions?

•  Money -- Is there a speaker's fee? (no). Will you pay for your hotel and travel?
   (offer parking, taxi, mileage $.35/mile, tolls, etc., meals and refreshments.)

•  Who is the support? Is there a single point of contact for pre-event and onsite support?

•  How will this be promoted?

•  Is there a requirement for a biography?

•  What equipment will be available? Data projector, Internet, microphone, etc.

Please contact KM Cluster for further information.

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