During the dot.com bubble, the power of online ‘communities’ was a hot topic of discussion and activity. Unfortunately, with some notable high profile exceptions (e.g. e-Bay), communities failed to deliver to expectations (i.e. sufficient economic value to justify the investment).

Despite or because of lessons learnt during that period, interest in communities as a corporate business tool is now growing rapidly. Many experts predict this growth trend will continue and accelerate in the next few years.

There is a growing awareness amongst companies of the power of communities to create economic value amongst employees, partners and customers. This understanding is now underpinned by recognition of a need to develop blended communities (i.e. communities that combine online and offline activities).

Factors driving community adoption rates include the emergence of the global economy together with the profound impact technology is having on the way we work and communicate.

Aviva plc (formerly CGNU) is aggressively developing communities as a tool to drive best practice across its global operations. Their aim is to more effectively connect like-minded professionals with shared interests across dispersed geographic boundaries. The prize for achieving this is significant cost savings (by bettering leveraging existing expertise and assets) and improved performance through better business solutions that can be implemented more rapidly.

Aviva will be presenting a case study of their work in developing communities, addressing the business drivers prompting this action, together with key challenges encountered, lessons learnt and future plans.

Following the case study presentation, there will be a roundtable discussion to review and discuss the community related activities of other NetGroup member companies.

The objective of the event is to provide cross-industry insight, learning and ideas around how to harness the potential business benefits of communities. If you are responsible for driving a strategically focused, community initiative, do join us and participate.