The 5Ps
Creating lasting community change isn’t easy.
The 5Ps framework is a practical blueprint that keeps communities connected, focused and empowered to act on what matters most to them.
Built on years of experience with community-led projects and inspired by lessons learned the hard way, the 5Ps framework helps you turn ambition into action by aligning Purpose, Partners, Processes, Platform and People:
Purpose
Purpose is the compass that guides everything. Without it, even the best ideas can flounder. Purpose gives projects direction, motivates people and keeps everyone moving toward shared goals.
In the 5Ps framework, Purpose is about defining why change matters, for whom, and what success looks like. A shared vision turns passion into focused action.
Partners
Change is never achieved alone. Partners bring the skills, resources and commitment needed to turn vision into reality.
The 5Ps approach ensures partnerships are equitable and collaborative, aligning external support with the community’s goals, while navigating power dynamics and competing priorities.
Processes
Processes are the systems and habits that strengthen what works. They provide structure, accountability and clarity; guiding how decisions are made, how projects progress and how collaboration happens.
With clear processes, everyone knows their role, how to contribute and how to stay on track - turning ambition into real outcomes.
Platforms
Our platforms (and others too) are the connective tissue that links people, partners and processes. It’s the space where ideas are shared, resources accessed and collaboration happens.
A well-designed platform prevents silos, enhances collaboration and levels the playing field. It ensures that people, projects and processes are linked, visible and able to evolve together.
People
At the heart of every project are the people themselves. Communities are full of energy, ideas and passion, and placing people at the centre ensures that every decision reflects their needs, values and aspirations.
Early alignment between different stakeholders (e.g. community members, partners, funders) avoids frustration, strengthens collaboration and ensures that passion translates into progress.
Bringing the 5Ps Together
When Purpose, Partners, Processes, Platform, and People work in harmony, change becomes inevitable:
- Purpose gives direction and meaning.
- Partners bring the skills and commitment to act.
- Processes create clarity, structure and accountability.
- Platforms connect people and remove barriers.
- People drive everything from the centre.
The 5Ps framework is a flexible blueprint that adapts to your community’s unique strengths and challenges. We can help you put some or all of these 5Ps into practice in ways that make sense for your community.
Connect with Kathryn or Robert to explore how we can support your community: