e-Facilitating networking in distance co-operation contexts

In this part, based on our own experience in the framework of SME ACTor as well as other projects, and the review of other documented experiences and related literature, we will analyse how the facilitator role can be supported or even enhanced by electronic means when a face-to-face encounter is not possible or its frequency is insufficient for the purposes of the “facilitated” network or community and when, as a consequence, distance co-operation processes need to be activated for the benefit of the joint work. This part will conclude with a narration and evaluation of our own virtual experience in SME ACTor, providing the reader with a concrete case to better understand how to benefit from new technologies and also to illustrate the flexibility required for adapting online tools to the facilitation process on a one-by-one project basis.