Understand and cultivate external forces. External influences within the professional development system also influence the leadership system. These include Partnerships between organizations and agencies that support ongoing communication on issues affecting the field, Stakeholder Input which is critical for a flow of information that moves from local to state and back again. Resources available both locally and statewide, and Political Climate which can influence the ability of the group to make progress. Various powerful political sources in the states must be identified and cultivated as supporters of building leadership within the system of professional development. For more information on a profesional development system...See: http://www.ncchildcare.org/brochure1.pdf

Cohesive Plan - Establish planning structures. Interagency or multidisciplinary planning groups work to build leadership. Once given authority to move ahead and take a leading role in the state, a planning group that is representative of the various stakeholders in the early childhood field, can prepare a multiyear development plan. This plan will serve as the basis for a policy initiative to create a support infrastructure. In North Carolina this body is the NC Institute for Early Childhood Professional Development.

Mounting a media initiative: The general public needs a better understanding of the infrastructure concept of professional development systems and leadership. A long-range media campaign mounted by a variety of individuals and organizations committed to this idea should be considered. Public awareness includes outreach efforts to parents, policy makers, the general public, and professionals about components necessary to build a quality child care system of services.

Involve all professionals. Organizations that serve professionals in educational fields should be identified as stakeholders and partners. These may include state and national organizations, government agencies, institutions of higher education, and non-profit organizations that serve children and families.

Source: (Gallagher & Clifford, 2000). The Missing Support Infrastructure in Early Childhood.