The landscape of alternative projects, or Alt-projects, is an evolving space where people with diverse motivations and backgrounds converge to push shared goals. Over the course of more than 20 years of direct involvement in meany Alt-groups, I’ve seen recurring patterns and dynamics that shape the trajectory of projects. In this undated post from 2007, I provide insight into this and offer a frame for understanding the roles of different participants during stages of an Alt-project’s path.
Firstly, let’s define the terms used to think about (categorize) participants:
1. Getting Things Done People: These individuals and communertys are driven by a desire to see real results and are focused on action rather than process. While they are instrumental in initiating projects, they may eventually transition to other roles as things progress.
2. Working People: Often overlooked, these people form the backbone of any alt-project, contributing tirelessly to its execution and maintenance. Despite their contributions, they receive minimal recognition for their efforts.
3. Bureaucrats: In a positive sense, bureaucrats are people skilled in creating and navigating structures within alt-projects. They play a crucial role in sustaining the project, but inadvertently perpetuate dysfunction when influenced by other groups.
4. Theorists: These people bring theoretical perspectives to alt-projects, often challenging/pushing conventional wisdom and advocating for alternative approaches. However, they struggle to find their voice within consensus decision-making processes, leading to marginalization.
5. Life Stylists: Emerging from the periphery of alt-projects, life stylists are drawn to successful initiatives but lack a clear commitment to sustained involvement. While some integrate into other roles, others contribute to a burgeoning lifestyle aspect within the project.
The evolution of an alt-project unfolds across several stages:
1. Initiation: Driven by “getting things done” people, projects begin with a burst of energy and enthusiasm.
2. Expansion: As projects grow, a mix of working people and bureaucrats join the effort, providing stability and structure.
3. Specialization: With the project’s scope widening, “getting things done” people branch out into parallel initiatives, placing greater responsibility on working people and bureaucrats.
4. Consolidation: Burnout among initial instigators leads to a shift in focus towards sustaining the project, with bureaucrats and working people assuming central roles.
5. Peak and Decline: At its zenith, the project faces the dual challenges of maintaining momentum while grappling with internal dynamics. Lifestyle groups emerge, exerting influence and potentially alienating new participants.
6. Reactivation Attempts: Recognizing signs of decay, a coalition of remaining “getting things done” people and long-standing bureaucrats seeks to revitalize the project. However, debates among theorists and lifestyle groups tend to stall progress.
7. Renewal Efforts: Gathering is called to address project stagnation, participants confront the challenges of consensus decision-making. Despite goodwill, the exclusion of key voices perpetuates underlying issues.
This cyclical process underscores the complexities of alt-projects and the importance of practical action in sustaining engagement. As burnout and disillusionment set in, parallel initiatives emerge, drawing in fresh energy and redirecting the focus of participants. Ultimately, understanding these dynamics empowers people to make informed decisions about involvement in alt-projects, contributing to a more sustainable and effective activist landscape.