Definition:
Gasóga na hÉireann/Scouting Ireland
Short-Term Project Teams
Short-term project teams are small, purpose-driven teams formed within Scouting Ireland to address specific tasks or deliverables within a limited timeframe, typically ranging from a few weeks to 4-5 months. These Project teams will be cross-functional, composed of volunteers from diCerent areas of Scouting, brought together to achieve clearly defined outcomes such as Policy Reviews, organising an event, launching a campaign, developing a specific resource or supporting a National Campsite with a particular project.
Benefits for Scouting in Ireland:
1. Flexibility & Agility:
These teams allow Scouting Ireland to respond quickly to emerging needs or national initiatives. Their short-term nature makes them ideal for rapid development and implementation.
2. Volunteer Engagement & Inclusion:
Short-term teams oCer a lower- commitment opportunity for volunteers to contribute their skills. This encourages participation from a wider pool of people, including those who may not be available for long-term roles.
3. Skill Utilisation & Development:
Members can apply professional or personal skills (e.g., event planning, communication, technology) while also gaining experience in teamwork, leadership, and project management.
4. Innovation & Fresh Perspectives:
Short-term project teams bring diverse voices across Scouting, often leading to more creative, inclusive, and eCective solutions to challenges.
5. Reduced Burnout:
Volunteers can engage intensely for a short period without long-term
commitments, helping to prevent volunteer fatigue and sustain long-term involvement.
6. Enhanced Outcomes:
With a clear goal and deadline, Short-term project teams tend to be highly focused and outcome- oriented, delivering measurable results eCiciently.
7. Use in Practice:
Scouting Ireland could utilise short-term project teams for tasks such as organising specific programmes for jamborees, supporting youth programmes with particular projects, including skills training, trialling and developing new technology tools, or refreshing training materials. These teams report to existing structures but operate semi-independently, with clear guidance and a wrap -up process that ensures learning is captured.
Conclusion:
Short-term project teams represent a modern, dynamic approach to volunteer engagement and project delivery in Scouting. The team members can recruit from within and outside Scouting Ireland as needed