¶ H.e.l.f.a. Group Levels
The H.e.l.f.a. group levels are divided into a hierarchical and two-dimensional structure. On the geographical levels (local, regional, supraregional, global), the merging of local, regional, and supraregional groups occurs, enabling global coordination at the global level. The two-dimensional levels (subject orientation, project orientation) allow for a differentiated examination of subject matters and collaboration on specific projects. This structure facilitates efficient information flow, offers flexibility through autonomous group and level building, and selectively filters information to provide members with relevant content. Clear thematic naming ensures an organized place within the structure.
The H.e.l.f.a. group levels reflect a hierarchical structure, emphasizing that this hierarchy does not imply any power weighting. Its main purpose is the efficient distribution of information within the group structure. Each level, from local to global, is integral to the overall hierarchy, and members at each level play a crucial role in information dissemination. The two-dimensional levels, encompassing subject orientation and project orientation, complement this hierarchy by allowing a nuanced examination of subject matters and promoting project collaboration. Thus, this structure creates a cooperative environment where the hierarchy solely serves transparent information distribution, without establishing a hierarchy of power.
¶ Geographical Levels
The structure of H.e.l.f.a. group levels is hierarchical and geographically tiered. The local level (Level 1) serves as the starting point, while the globally comprehensive level (Level 4) marks the top end. Between these two extremes, two flexible intermediate levels stand, which can be individually adjusted according to geographical conditions. The naming of these levels is based on their geographical scope and practical applicability.
The level immediately after the local level is the regional level (Level 2), which refers to the consolidation of local groups in a geographic area. All levels beyond a specific region are considered supraregional (Level 3). This supraregional level allows groups to organize across different regions, thus bridging local and global interests.
The variable adjustment of intermediate levels considers the diversity of geographical conditions and enables practical structuring, whether in a city, a country, or a continent. This illustrates how the H.e.l.f.a. group levels represent not only a hierarchy but also an adaptable and practice-oriented organizational structure.
¶ Level 1 (Local Level):
At Level 1, the local level, the personality of the H.e.l.f.a. group structure unfolds. Here, where everyone knows everyone, local community groups emerge as the nucleus for any engagement in Helfa. Without a local community group, participation in H.e.l.f.a. is not possible. These community groups form the starting point to which various other group types can join. For example, if a community group pursues a specific theme, a local thematic group can form. The same applies to professional groups or academies. Organizational groups only appear from Level 2 onwards, as it makes no sense to establish them exclusively for a local group – after all, the community group already represents an organization in itself.
¶ Level 2 (Regional Level):
The regional level (Level 2) enables the coming together of different local or regional community groups to form a new regional group. The extent of a regional group is determined by the area it covers, whether it’s a city, a region, or an entire area, with the groups themselves setting their size limits. A regional group has the authority to establish regional thematic groups, professional groups, or academies. Additionally, on this level, organizational groups can emerge, active in the defined area. Unlike geographically limited groups, organizational groups are not restricted to a specific location by definition.
To ensure smooth information flow, each community group should provide at least one moderator from its moderation team for the next higher level. This ensures that each local group is represented at the next level. In case of any issues, it is the moderator’s responsibility to represent them and forward the concerns to the next higher instance. This structure promotes efficient communication and collaboration between the levels.
¶ Level 3 (Supraregional Level):
In the supraregional level (Level 3), not only can local community groups come together, but regional and supraregional groups also have the opportunity to form supraregional community groups and connect with each other. Similar principles apply as in the second level. A significant difference is that personal encounters are more of an exception, due to significant geographical distances. Nevertheless, Helfa Rule 2 applies, allowing people belonging to a local community group to get to know each other and ensure security through the moderation team.
The supraregional level opens up new perspectives for extended collaboration and coordination across large geographical distances. Supraregional community groups act as bridges between different local groups and enable in-depth exchange. On this level, not only can local community groups but also regional and supraregional groups establish thematic groups, professional groups, and academies. Moderators continue to play a crucial role in information flow by serving as a link between the levels and ensuring effective communication.
¶ Level 4 (Global Level):
At the global level (Level 4), all community groups from the previous levels come together to form global community groups. However, there exists a natural boundary necessitating different global community groups: language. In this global group, moderators from local community groups should be represented to effectively represent their groups and offer or request assistance.
Global community groups are usually coordinated by organizations (Org
as) as they possess enormous potential. These organizations are tasked with administering smooth operations but must not exert unilateral control. They can make offers but must not dictate a particular direction. This ensures balanced and democratic collaboration on a global scale.
¶ Special Group: Organizational Groups
Organizational groups play a special role within the geographical levels framework, as unlike other group types, they are not limited by geographical restrictions. While community groups, thematic groups, and professional groups often focus on specific geographical areas, organizational groups operate on a higher level and are not bound by geographical boundaries.
This flexibility allows organizational groups to operate across local, regional, and even supraregional contexts. They can network and coordinate on a global level to advance specific goals or projects. As organizational groups are not territorially limited, they provide an effective platform for collaboration and the exchange of resources and expertise across different geographical regions.
The integration of organizational groups into the structure of geographical levels thus creates a dynamic and versatile hierarchy that considers the diverse needs and activities of the group types. This contributes to efficient information distribution and collaboration within the overall system.
¶ Example
Group Name → District → City → Region → State → Country → Continent → Planet
Group Name (Local Group) = Local Group = Level 1
District = Regional Group = Level 2
City = Regional Group = Level 2
Region = Regional Group = Level 2
Country = Supraregional Group = Level 3
Continent = Supraregional Group = Level 3
Earth = Global Group = Level 4
| Administrative Level | H.e.l.f.a. - Level | Cologne Carnival | Bergisch Friends | Vienna |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District | Level 1 (Local Group) | Cologne - Deutz | Bergisch Gladbach Gronau | Vienna |
| City | Level 2 (Regional Group) | Cologne | Bergisch Gladbach | - |
| Region | Level 2 (Regional Group) | - | Oberbergischer Kreis | - |
| State | Level 2 (Regional Group) | North Rhine-Westphalia | Vienna | |
| Country | Level 3 (Supraregional Group) | Germany | Austria | |
| Continent | Level 3 (Supraregional Group) | Europe | ||
| Planet | Level 4 (Global Group) | Earth |
¶ Significance of Hierarchical Levels
The diversity of intermediate levels in this example illustrates that this structure is flexible and adaptable to various group situations. These levels are universally applicable to all types of groups and offer a multifaceted organizational form.
The hierarchical levels play a crucial role by enabling smooth information flow from Level 1 to Level 4 and vice versa. This structure ensures that information can be efficiently distributed to multiple or specific groups.
A significant advantage is that this hierarchy helps prevent information overload. With a clear structure, we receive only the information that is relevant to us. At the same time, it allows us to pass on information to the right place, ensuring targeted communication with the relevant individuals. Thus, this structure serves as an effective means to optimize communication within the group structure.
¶ Two-dimensional Levels
Thematic groups, professional groups, organizational groups, and academies not only demonstrate a geographical structure but also present complex thematic levels and subareas. Each group type has a main group as well as various sub-group types.
A concrete example illustrates these connections:
Nature → Forest → Animals → Birds
and
Nature → Forest → Trees → Moringa Tree
The “Forest” group includes all members of the “Animals” and “Birds” groups as well as the “Trees” and “Moringa Tree” groups. It is important to emphasize that the sub-groups “Animals” and “Birds” are independent groups at the lower levels and are not directly linked to the sub-groups “Trees” and “Moringa Tree”. However, at the higher levels, especially in the “Nature” main group, these different sub-groups come together, thus enabling effective networking and collaboration.
Regarding the geographical levels, these groups are organized in a similar hierarchical pattern: Local Groups → Regional Groups → Supraregional Groups → Global Groups. This not only allows for geographical structuring but also ensures efficient information distribution from the local level to the global level and vice versa. This hierarchical structure facilitates the exchange of relevant information and promotes collaboration at various levels.
¶ Example
There are thematic groups:
| Local Group | Theme Group | Indirectly “inherited” Theme Groups |
|---|---|---|
| Cologne Jecken | Local Group Medicinal Plants | Global Group Plants, Nature |
| Bergische Buren | Local Group Forests | Global Group Plants, Nature |
| North Rhine-Westphalia | - | - |
| Germany | Regional Group Pets | Regional Groups Animals, Nature |
| Vienna | Local Group Plants | Global Group Nature |
In this case, it becomes clear that the Cologne local group and the groups from Bergisch Gladbach share two common global theme groups: Plants and Nature. This means that these groups can be represented together in the global groups and, of course, exchange information there. It is important to emphasize that the local theme groups are specifically designed for the local local groups. Even if there are overlaps, they are separate groups to maintain the privacy of each individual. Vienna, although not in Germany, can engage in the global theme group with the other two groups because they speak the same language.
¶ Effective Structure, Flexible Construction
It is crucial that the topics addressed by the groups are clearly named. In this way, they can find their appropriate place in the structure, enabling a smooth flow of information. This ensures that we can identify the appropriate groups for a particular topic. Even if it is not immediately clear to whom we should turn, we can address the main theme at the top and thus effectively reach the relevant subtopics.**
The autonomy of the members allows for flexible construction of all groups and levels. Adaptability contributes to the organic and needs-based growth of the structure. Members have the freedom to form groups according to their interests, thus creating a diverse and dynamic community.