Previously, we outlined important considerations and actions, which are necessary for the establishment of a community of practice. The following outlines some success factors and advantages while challenges are also outlined:

Advantages include:

·         Better transfer of know-how

·         Learnt issues contribute to the day-to-day business beyond the CoP

·         Increased motivation in relation to learning and enlargement of competencies

·         CoPs help to build identity because of the joint resolution of problems

·         Definition of joint standards

Challenges include:

·         The purpose and target group has to be defined very clearly. One factor contributing to failure is that the boundaries (target group, context, knowledge domain, governance etc.) are not clearly defined

·         Commitment of colleagues/envisaged members

·         Involvement in the work of the community

·         For the moderator (manager) it is very important to put the right emphasis on control

·         Combination of virtual and face-to-face meetings

·         Creation of sustainable learning processes and infrastructures