Co-design – An Unexpected Evolution for Western Landcare NSW
Introduction of a different way of thinking creates unexpected outcomes.
Capacity building - LEP23-021-14
The issue
There has been a disconnect between Western Landcare NSW and key local stakeholders. Community members and landholders are busy and disengaged. Some even doubted our credibility and intentions. This has been compounded by the top-down approach of policy makers and project designs, that undervalues the opinions and experiences of real people.
The task was to overcome these barriers and rebuild genuine, open relationships that could form the foundation for collaborative partnerships with stakeholder organisations, members and our community.
The solution
Western Landcare NSW hosted Knowledge Brokers, whose role was to facilitate open discussion and build trusted relationships within our community of practice.
A project funded by the Southern NSW Drought and Innovation Hub, Aus Gov Dept Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry and Future Drought Fund. We hosted the Knowledge Broker Project, it's overall objective - to improve the drought resilience of stakeholders using codesign methodology.
Co-design aims to empower stakeholders by giving them an authentic voice and ownership in identifying issues and developing and implementing the solutions. Through respectful and adaptive co-design, participants share personal insights, express concerns, and brainstorm potential projects and partnerships to make tangible impact.
The impact
Co-design methods proved transformative the Western Landcare team. It has impacted our relationships internally by creating an atmosphere of mutual respect and transparency. Most importantly the organisation now feels like a safe place for our team, and this is mirrored in all our dealings.
Consultation fatigued stakeholders are now actively contributing and appreciating our organisation value. Western Landcare NSW values all voices and contributions, real-life experience, opinions and ideas. Innovation in our engagement style is fostering sustainable partnerships, responsive projects and invested members.
This project led to the development of clear regional priorities and promising concepts ranging from practical immediate actions and capacity-building initiatives to innovative solutions tailored to the specific needs of our communities.
The Knowledge Broker Project also resulted in a dramatic and unexpected evolution for Western Landcare NSW by introducing a different way of thinking.
Key facts
- Valuing and investing in your team will unlock potential.
- Co-design challenges traditional expert-driven thinking and leadership. It’s a mindset!
- There will always be challenges for all our Landcare organisations' to overcome.
- Persistent effort, ongoing support and an open mind will demonstrate your that you value your community members.
- Innovation and adapting our approach are essential to ensure we continue to have positive and sustainable impact to our cause.