A model for communities

I love distributed control models, particularly for communities with many touch points (i.e. an online space, and IRL space, events).

With the right systems, processes, and trust built between parties, this model gives autonomy to the mini-groups that form within the larger community (or for product communities: user groups).

It enables folks locally, let’s say, to make decisions for their group because that group has their own specific needs and goals. Shared decision-making happens here, along with emergent leadership, which is what you want. Your members should have a seat at the decision-making table.

After all, we’re talking about community.