For More Information: Gemeinsinn-Werkstatt, www.gemeinsinn-werkstatt.de
Purpose:
To address complex issues within the framework of a large group project involving different people in a structured, motivated, and self-organized way.
Outcomes:
• Generates open-minded initiators and participants
• Enhanced voluntary engagement and responsibility for each other
• Better cooperation and synergy among institutions
• Optimizes use of human and material resources
• Supports sustainable networking processes and method-knowledge as a basis for further projects
When to Use:
• When there is an urgent issue and many are willing to act
• When many individuals and organizations volunteer
• When existing conflicts can be dealt with in a constructive manner
When Not to Use:
• When dealing with a short-term issue, routine work, or well-defined projects
• When key participants are excluded
• When cooperation is impossible
Number of Participants:
• 27 to an open number
Types of Participants:
• Initiative circle: Key figures from diverse interest groups, responsible for the project framework
• Project circle: The coordinators who work as volunteers, honorary, or full-time supporting the framework
• Event circles: Participants of at least two large group events
• Action circles: Participants who develop their various self-responsible action groups
Typical Duration:
• Activation phase: 6 weeks–6 months
• Realization phase: 3 months–2 years
• Integration phase: 6 weeks–6 months
Brief Example:
A professor of the institute for educational sciences was interested in the new large-group procedure and saw a chance to improve cooperation within the university. With the support of the Gemeinsinn-Werkstatt, they not only succeeded in achieving midterm results, but also in developing an informal Gemeinsinn-Netzwerk (Community Spirit Network) that spans the university’s functions, enhancing cooperation.
Historical Context:
Created in a project of the Bertelsmann Foundation with the Center for Applied Policy Research (2000–
2004) by Wolfgang Faenderl in cooperation with the Support Network of consultants, researchers, and
moderators.
 Gemeinsinn-Werkstatt |
