Projects

This is NOT SOS guidance - if that's what you're looking for please see

Self Organising System (SOS)

In the Self-Organising System (SOS), a project refers to a temporary initiative aimed at achieving a specific goal. Projects differ from working groups (or circles) in that they do not require a mandate and are often cross-circle, meaning they involve people from multiple circles bringing their expertise. Members of a project group contribute based on their existing mandates within their home circles.

Key Characteristics of a Project in SOS:

Short-term focus: A project is usually created to address a particular need and is dissolved once the goal is met.
Cross-team collaboration: Projects often involve people from multiple circles, unlike working groups, which belong to a single circle.
No formal mandate: While working groups require a mandate from a broader circle, projects operate through existing roles and mandates.
Coordination considerations: Setting up a project should involve defining objectives, aligning activities with relevant roles, and ensuring clear communication and coordination

When to Form a Project Group as opposed to a Circle/Working Group

A project group should be formed instead of a circle (or working group) when the work is temporary, specific, and cross-functional. Here are key scenarios where forming a project group is the best approach:

Defined Timeframe: If the work has a clear end date or is meant to achieve a one-time goal, a project group is preferable. Circles are ongoing and focus on maintaining long-term functions.
Cross-Circle Collaboration: When an initiative requires input from multiple circles, a project group allows for flexible participation without restructuring existing mandates.
No Need for a New Mandate: If the work can be carried out within existing mandates and does not require a formal governance structure, a project group is sufficient. Circles, by contrast, need a mandate from a broader circle to define their purpose and responsibilities.
Experimental or Trial Initiatives: If an idea needs testing before becoming an ongoing function, a project group allows for agility and quick adaptation without committing to the formal structure of a circle.
Urgent or Fast-Moving Work: When rapid action is needed, project groups enable quick mobilisation of relevant expertise without waiting for the governance processes required to establish a new circle.

If a project proves to be essential beyond its initial goal, it can later transition into a circle with a formal mandate to sustain its work long-term.