Abstract

The value of collaboration is recognised as a key strategy in research as it boosts innovation, strengthens problem-solving, and enhances the reach and quality of scientific discoveries, making it essential for addressing complex, real-world challenges. As research managers, we should also be harnessing the power of collaboration ourselves as a catalyst for both individual and institutional progress.

An effective mechanism for facilitating such collaborations are Communities of Practice (CoPs). CoPs are best defined as groups of individuals who share a common interest, profession (such as research management), or passion, who come together to exchange knowledge, collaborate, and improve their expertise in a particular area. CoPs are built on three key elements:
1. Domain: A shared area of interest or focus where members are committed to learning and improving practices.
2. Community: A group of individuals who interact regularly, building relationships through discussions, collaboration, and mutual support.
3. Practice: The shared body of knowledge, skills, tools, and experiences that the members develop and refine collectively.

In essence, CoPs are social structures where people collaborate to solve problems, share insights, and build expertise, driving continuous learning and improvement within a professional or knowledge-based domain. CoPs offer numerous benefits, particularly for professional growth, knowledge sharing, problem solving, and organisational development.

CoPs (also known as Special Interest Groups) for research managers and administrators are often coordinated through professional societies. To be sustainable, they require engagement from members and active leadership/facilitation to maintain the momentum of activities. This session will discuss the key components of successful and sustainable CoPs and identify what opportunities are available for participants to leverage CoPs for their own development and to support the broader progress of research management.

The presenter has been a Convenor of one of the most active Special Interest Groups (SIGs) for ARMS (the Australasian Research Management Society) for 5.5 years and, in 2024, was awarded the ARMS Janet Dibb-Leigh Award for Distinguished Service to Research Management.