Communities of practice are broader than action learning groups. In fact, action learning groups can be a part of communities of practice. Communities of practice exist inside and outside of organizations. Communities of practice engage in the process of collective learning; they are like a tribe learning to survive. Communities of practice are groups with a common interest or domain. They share resources: tools, stories, shared practices and ways of addressing reoccurring problems. They are involved in individual and collective learning and growing.
The concept of communities of practice is not new. The Transcendentals–Emerson, Thoreau, Alcott—met formally and informally in Boston in the 1800s and talked philosophy. The Impressionist painters in Paris met in cafes and talked technique. Episcopal ministers in St. Paul, Minnesota meet weekly to talk about the Bible readings for the week. Groups of therapists meet and talk about their most difficult cases and help each other.
A community of practice can help an organization be more innovative. Innovation circles, groups, contests, projects, seminars, and displays are visible within the ranks of the organization. People talk about their initiatives and projects; the topic of innovation is on the top of the mind in these organizations. Groups can share best and worst practices concerning innovation. Innovations can move forward faster given this kind of collaboration.