Research and mapping objectives

What are the objectives of the R&M?

I feel we need to resist here, the desire to collate, in one place, the biggest possible list of every single project that exists. We already know there are 6000 UK online centres, 600 CMA members, 2500 partners on COL database…etc

I think we need to develop an open and flowing process, so that we get as much quality information as possible to understand the types of projects that exist, why they exist (what drives them) and what the benefits are as well as disadvantages in the process, in particular focused on sustainability. What we can learn that is good for training others and what training needs may exist. What else do people think we need to find out?

This could take a variety of formats and we don’t need to necessarily pick one:

1. Mail out to databases of various networks
2. Telephone interviews of projects that come forwards as particularly interested
3. Literature review and desk research (eg Foley mapping of the 198 indicator set- I can explain if needed)
4. Fieldwork interviews where a particular feature seems especially interesting (for example if someone had developed a sustainable social enterprise model)
5. Online discussion amongst the consortium group
6. Use of web2.0 sites

Anything else?

We are “looking for gaps”- this might be in usage of types of technology or socially excluded groups that are underserved, or formats of mentoring such as volunteers, or online mentors, etc.

It helps to think through what gaps might exist, because then you can fill them or not. Gaps in actual fact are also potential demonstrators, because if people have a project they want to extend or start afresh, it may be because they perceive there is a gap…