Collective Impact

The Great Lakes Bottom Mapping Working Group (BMWG) is guided by the principles of Collective Impact.  Collective Impact is a framework intended to address complex problems through collaboration with multiple organizations working at multiple jurisdictional levels.  Essential aspects of the Collective Impact framework include:

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Common Agenda

  • Shared Vision for change
  • Common Understanding of the Problem
  • Joint Approach to the solution
Transfer

Shared measurement Systems

  • Common Data Standards
  • Coordination of data collection
  • Shared Accountability

Mutually Reinforcing Activities

  • Multiple Perspectives leading to the solution
  • Sharing Skill Sets among partners

Continuous Communication

  • Open Communication and Exchange of information
  • Building Trust between stakeholders
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Backbone Support Organizations

  • Separate support Organizations and Staff dedicated to facilitation
  • Coordinate and Convene participating members and organizations 

Approach to Collective Impact

Backbone Support

  • The BMWG has administrative support from a Core Team of Great Lakes Observing System, the USGS Great Lakes Science Center, and the NOAA Office of Coastal Management. The team manages the website, convenes workshops and meetings, and keeps BMW initiatives in motion. A Steering Committee helps to support and guide the Core Team.

Continuous Communication

  • The BMWG maintains open lines of communication with a broad range of stakeholders via the Steering Committee and General Membership. These groups include representatives from state, provincial and federal agencies, non-governmental organizations, and academic researchers. The Steering Committee meets quarterly to share updates on ongoing work and discuss needs and opportunities.  The General Membership meets annually.
  • The BMWG maintains contact with the Bottom Mapping community via a listserv, a website, webinars, and other communication products.


Common Agenda

  • The BMWG common agenda focuses around the objectives of the organization, as stated above.