Getting strategic value from constellations of communities

The concept of constellations of communities is a big picture view of how communities of practice in organizations relate to one another. These communities are voluntary, and over time they form a complex, informal network of relationships, knowledge sharing, learning, and conversations that can be woven together into a powerful strategic fabric with the right kind of leadership. Like a garden, these communities must be tended and nurtured rather than commanded and controlled. The article contains examples of constellations of communities in business, non‐profit, volunteer‐oriented associations, and society at large and outlines the potential benefits of a constellation to its stakeholders.