networks so robust. (Galloway 2006: 318)In the hierarchy nothing is allowed to happen outside the control of the chain of command,
as there is always someone in a position of responsibility. This gives the hierarchy its rigid
and trustworthy form, but also limits its dynamics. In the network, on the other hand, any-
thing can happen and migrate through the network.Protocol is synonymous with possibility. [...] Protocol outlines the playing field for
what can happen, and where. (Galloway 2004: 167)Protocols enable interaction without a hierarchy, it decentralized control and cre-
ate bazaar-like and flatter platforms for interaction. At this level protocol is a for-
mat of endless possibilities as action fields and new lines of practice opens in all
directions – like a “rhizome”. All nodes can communicate with each other, all inter-
faces are open and creation and feedback are intertwined. To participate in a net-
work, actors have to adhere to the dominant protocols, the standardized format
that enables openness. Without a protocol, there is no network, since the parts will
have problems understanding each other. For creating scenes for co-design and
participation, protocols must be prototyped, allowing wider participation without
an auteur as leader.
However, we should not naively celebrate networks and protocols and totally dis-
miss hierarchies as most often they are engaged in fruitful interaction. But we un-
derstand hierarchies better these days than protocols. We have many established
tools and procedure to help us choose a leader or protect property but little experi-
ence in how to negotiate and create common and dynamic protocols that allow for
open exchange and interoperation. What is important is to experiment further
with protocols to better understand how they can be used and how to avoid thatA flashmobcatwalk was organized in
Carnaby Street, London on July 27th 2006
following a simple protocol a
- Thursday 27 July at 6:30pm.
- anyone can join in and strut their stuff.
- Start from Liberty’s end from the ‘Welcome
to Carnaby Street’ sign at 6:30pm Near
Miss Sixty and Shakespeare’s Head - and walk as far as you want
- to Ganton Street - model level
- to Kingly Court/Broadwick street - super-
model level - to Beak Street - Kate Moss/name your price
level - Bring music if you want or walk to the music
in the street and shops...
(flashmobcatwalk 2006)