How to get started with SparkBlue
SparkBlue was developed under UNDP’s Digital Lighthouse Initiative through consultative processes with UNDP colleagues across the organisation.
The platform centralizes both the internal Communities of Practice (CoPs) and external multi-stakeholder engagements.
Get acquainted with the platform in no time!
1. Set up your account and start exploring
- Learn how to navigate the CoPs
- Get to know your profile
2. Manage your profile
- Add a profile image to your profile
- Set your preferences for email notifications
- Set your preferred timezone
- Learn other tips and tricks
3. Join a CoP
CoP homepages provide all content related to a specific CoP, including all relevant groups, events, content and other engagement opportunities.
4. Join a group or event
Join groups and enroll in events in order to participate in the engagement and add your own comments and expertise.
5. Find new content to engage with and explore
Browse the resource library and filter for content by content type, thematic area or community.
6. Ask Anything: Use the GPN Help Desk
Ask questions on the GPN help desk to receive quick support from CoP Facilitators and other colleagues.
When to Use SparkBlue or look for alternatives
Engage with your Communities of Practice! See the latest information, snapshot and videos from your community of practice all in one space. Ask questions or help a community member find solutions. Join relevant events and online discussions. It’s your community.
Add your voice to internal and external consultations: With SparkBlue you can engage in consultations and e-discussions that are either internal, external, or by invite only. If you are interested in hosting your own discussion, please contact [email protected]
Join and host interactive events: On SparkBlue you can browse all upcoming and past events in the Communities of Practice, whether it is a webinar, an official high-level event, a brownbag or more. Find an event you are interested in and enroll, comment, or join via the appropriate Zoom or Teams link. You can also explore hosting your team's events on this space by contacting the SparkBlue team or a relevant CoP Facilitator.
Co-edit documents: SparkBlue is a good platform to engage in discussions or crowdsource ideas, but its not the best place for conducting co-editing of documents. If you want to do that, it’s better to use Microsoft Teams or SharePoint.
Upload your documents: SparkBlue can house resources but this is only recommended for content that is specifically related to SparkBlue's online engagements and communities. If you want to feature a resource or library of resources only, use SharePoint for internal purposes, and for external make sure you go through the Knowledge Product Quality Assurance to have your publication published on undp.org.
Post static information about your team's work or structure: SparkBlue does host online engagements from various teams. However, it is not the best place to provide static information about UNDP's work and internal team structure. If you want to communicate internally about your team or work, use the Intranet, and if you want to communicate externally approach various communications focal points for placement on undp.org.