The Power of Working Together: Designing, Implementing, and Sustaining a Community of Practice to Support Organizational and Conservation Outcomes

Abstract

This guidance document aims to provide conservation practitioners and professionals with the knowledge, tools, and resources needed to facilitate and participate in Communities of Practice (CoPs). A CoP is a group of people who meet regularly to work toward the same goal or address the same challenge in a collaborative, learning-oriented space. By providing a platform for regular communication, resource sharing, and problem-solving, CoPs can enhance on-the-ground capacity for implementing scientific knowledge and ensure practice aligns with conservation goals. In this document, conservationists will learn 1) what CoPs are and how they benefit conservation and organizational goals; 2) how to form a CoP and recruit members; and 3) recommendations for implementing and sustaining CoPs. Grounded in real-world experiences, published literature, and first-hand experiences from the authors, this guidance document combines practical, actionable strategies with insights from published evaluations to provide conservation professionals with user-friendly guidance on engaging in and sustaining CoPs. A case study example focused on reducing human disturbance to shorebirds is included to illustrate how a well-supported CoP can generate meaningful outcomes for practitioners, organizations, and conservation efforts. This document contains talking points, check sheets, FAQs, tips, and examples for readers to use with their own CoPs.