Dave White

The NCD Networks:
A Just-In-Time Approach to NCD Training

When we introduced NCD in the Philippines the response was very enthusiastic. But … when it came to implementation … well … almost nothing happened. We have overcome this problem by using networks.
 

What are NCD Networks?

NCD Networks are groups of churches (4 or more) that meet together, once per month, to receive step-by-step instructions on how to implement NCD. After each network meeting they return to their churches and apply what was covered. After one month, they meet again and share their experiences and receive more instruction. This repeats for 14 months, completing the first cycle. Churches in networks implement NCD simultaneously under the leadership of a Network Facilitator.

 
Network Meeting Guides

Participating churches are provided with network meeting guides, that teach them each phase of the NCD cycle, step-by-step. Only what is needed for implementation in the coming month is taught. This just-in-time approach helps participants to focus and prevents them from becoming overwhelmed.

The Network Facilitator also has a meeting guide with additional instructions, that help him or her to lead the network meeting.

We have developed network meeting guides specifically for use in the Philippines. You can download these at www.ncdnet.org (Link: "Downloads").

 
Biotic Benefits of Networks

• Long-term results
  Churches complete the cycle and become long-term implementers of health-producing principles. (Interdependence)

• Networks multiply
  Every network is intentionally designed to birth new networks. (Multiplication)

• Social dynamics
  Filipinos love to be together. This dynamic is maximized in networks. (Energy Transformation)

• Encouragement
  Pastors face much discouragement. But at the network, someone always has good news to share. (Energy Transformation)

• Motivation
  Typically, churches start slow in their implementation. But one or two churches that are on target can motivate others! (Energy Transformation)

• Mistakes avoided
  All can learn from the mistakes of others, past and present. Sharing lessons learned allows us to avoid the mistakes of others. (Energy Transformation)

• Resource sharing
  As resources are discovered or developed they are shared with others. (Energy Transformation)

• Financially self-sustaining
  Each participating church pays a small network enrollment fee, covering all costs. There is no financial burden on a denomination. (Multi-usage)

• Reproducible tools
  By using network meeting guides, new Network Facilitators can easily be developed. Networks multiply indefinitely. (Multi-usage)

• Learn from one another
  This is perhaps the greatest benefit of all. There are several types of mutually beneficial relationships in networks. (Symbiosis)

• Action planning
  At every meeting, implementation teams go home with plans, things they will actually do! (Functionality)

• Accountability
  Network Facilitators monitor the progress of all participating churches, providing appropriate feedback. (Functionality)

• Real results
  Churches really grow in quality and quantity! (Functionality)

• Many churches benefit
  While coaches help individual churches, Network Facilitators help many simultaneously. (Functionality)

How to get started

Start one pilot network. Develop meeting guides as you go. Look at ours (www.ncdnet.org – link: "Downloads"), but you will need to adapt them to your situation. Then multiply networks. We also have materials to train Network Facilitators. If you need help, please feel free to contact Dave White at davewhite@oci.org.

Dave White is NCD National Partner in the Pilippines.