Platform C — a learning space for people tackling complex challenges through collaboration

Introduced in this video, a new knowledge and learning initiative called Platform C is aiming to encourage and foster connections and collaboration to tackle complex challenges. Although focused on Australia, the resources in Platform C will have wider application, and other regions around the world could consider similar initiatives.

The establishment of Platform C is welcome news, because as we’ve extensively documented in RealKM Magazine, it’s being increasingly understood that resolving complex issues requires approaches that transcend single disciplines and perspectives[1]. For example, recognition of the need for cross-domain knowledge integration and knowledge co-creation in regard to complex issues is gaining traction in knowledge management (KM)[2][3] and academic research[4], and the benefits of such approaches are clearly illustrated in a range of case studies.

Platform C is a virtual hub that is designed be open and accessible, making collaboration and systems change knowledge, tools and resources available to communities (of interest, practice, and place) across Australia regardless of budget or geography.

It has been developed by Collaboration for Impact in partnership with the Paul Ramsay Foundation, Dusseldorp Forum, Australian Department of Social Services, The Australian Centre for Social Innovation, and Clear Horizon.

References:

1. Ramalingam, B., Jones, H., Reba, T., & Young, J. (2008). Exploring the science of complexity: Ideas and implications for development and humanitarian efforts (Vol. 285). London: ODI.
2. Cummings, S., Regeer, B. J., Ho, W. W., & Zweekhorst, M. B. (2013). Proposing a fifth generation of knowledge management for development: investigating convergence between knowledge management for development and transdisciplinary research. Knowledge Management for Development Journal, 9(2), 10–36.
3. Cummings, S., Kiwanuka, S., Gillman, H., & Regeer, B. (2018). The future of knowledge brokering, perspectives from a generational framework of knowledge management for international development. Information Development, https://doi.org/10.1177/0266666918800174
4. Bammer, G. (2019). Key issues in co-creation with stakeholders when research problems are complex. Evidence & Policy: A Journal of Research, Debate and Practice, 15(3), 423–435.

Originally published at RealKM.