Time Implications
Time is not a variable neither is an infinite endless resource.
Across time events unfold. We plan from beginning towards the end. We use tools and methodologies to measure, monitor time.
Beside what we can call the general timeline of an event there are tens and tens of tasks specific timelines that unfold within and can change expanding or contracting the overall general timeline.
Some of these tasks specific timelines are easy to spot and account for, some get into the cracks, some were not there and are a result, the effect of new circumstances.
One intersection that is critical is between people and technology.
- How to define the amount of time necessary for folks to get comfortable with/within a digital infrastructure?
- How to provide time and resources dedicated to learn?
- How to respect the other multiple commitment folks engaging in their various roles (advisors, facilitators) have? How to introduce and deepen the engagement with technology?How to pace it?
Pace matters, not too fast, not too stressful, not too slow, too boring. A two days learning commitment need to be paced and agreed in a way that is effective and caring for all involved.
Communication matters, explaining, organizing simple demonstrations and walk-troughs.
Learning requires support, dedicated people and time to prepare, test and do on-boarding, answering questions, solve small problems, suggesting and describing workflows.
So, for example the specific task timeline of on- boarding would include:
- time for creating and agree on the workflow
- time for developing and preparing handouts
- time for communicating the on-boarding
- time to subscribe to the on-boarding
- time for attending the on-boarding
- time for extending on-boarding adding sessions, resolving issues
- time for on-boarded folxs to test, try, ask their questions
Learning time needs also to be accounted and made visible in all agreements, administrative paper, documentation especially folks who join spaces (platforms or set of platforms) and are neither hired or contracted but provide insights and advise on an area/community they are familiar with.
There are all lessons we have learned and reflected a lot in the course of the two participatory events we have facilitated. We have learned by ways of trials and errors.