NOTE: This is barely a stub document. It is more of a simple laying out of some basic ideas that I (Quite Oh) would like to seem implemented in the constitution. Consider that at the moment of this writing (2009-10-06), that this is a very superficial outline of what could eventually become a constitution.

NCI is a helper organisation. We help newbies, helpers and occasionally third parties. It is not yet determined if we will go to a model where we offer services for hire.

My own personal intent in this constitution is to ensure the long-term stability of NCI so that members may enjoy its benefits and that volunteers have a safe, fun environment in which to socialize and enjoy being of assistance to newcomers and each other alike. It must have a structure that is both highly flexible AND simulteneously ever integral.

Some fundamental ideas. The structure of NCI must integrate some basic self-preservations mechanisms. This means that it's very structure is created in such a way to be resistant to

• Ensuring that first and formost that all members at all levels measurably serve NCI's mission
• Ensuring that the entirety combines correct discretion with transparency
• Ensuring that those entrusted with a given position are qualified and are performing their duties in accordance with the overall mission, policies while permitting NCI to be a light-weight and flexible organisation
• Preventing corruption of any member at any level. This specifically means to prevent and cure
  • Engaging people who desire to serve their own purposes above that of NCI's
  • Preventing “corruption” though political and influential means
  • Preventing “corruption” though the manipulation of rules and regulations to benefit the individual or a group of individuals over the mission of NCI
  • Preventing the “stacking” the organisation's influence points
  • Preventing the accumulation of long term influence, ability to seize or control NCI processes and resources to the detriment of NCI's mission.

Once, as in nature the organisation that is NCI has basic defences in place, it must be by it's nature:

• Enduring - This means that it's continuity mission and operations are ensured
• Open - Meaning that the organisation as a whole operates in the light of transparency to promote the vigilance of the entire NCI community to ensure it's proper functioning. Perhaps not unlike some Open Source projects.
• Light weight and flexible. The structure of the organisation has to be easily maleable and flexible to handle changes is circumstance, as well of personnel (all while retaining its integrity)
• Collaborative. We want to promote a culture of joyfulness, easy sharing and enthusiastic collaboration.

Tateru Nino based NCI's model on that of the Red Cross. I think this is an excellent example. I am currently looking at structural models to see which best fits a flexible, fluid volunteer organisations that have the above criteria. At the moment, I'm taking a close look at the model used by Alcoholics Anonymous. It has many similarites to how NCI operates, and could perhaps be adapted to suit our needs.