What do we mean by "collaboration"? “Collaboration” is a way of analyzing and solving problems and issues that is especially useful when the topic is complicated, conflict-producing and involves many players with different perspectives. Generally speaking, a collaborative process starts with recognition that everyone with a stake in the problem has to be part of the solution if effective, lasting results are to be achieved. The different “stakeholders” then come together to jointly develop better understanding of the issues and perspectives, and work to find agreement on concrete measures that have mutual benefit, and therefore, broad support.
How is "collaboration" accomplished? Specific collaborative approaches include consensus-building (seeking agreements supported by everyone); “mutual gains” (“win-win”) negotiation; cooperative problem-solving; mediation to resolve specific disputes, and dialogue to increase understanding. What approach is most useful depends on factors like the number parties, the complexity of the issue/s and the level of conflict. Sometimes one particular process is most appropriate, and other times a combination of approaches is called for. What's the role of facilitation? Frequently there is a “third party” in the role of mediator or facilitator. This person supports the collaborative effort by suggesting or designing an appropriate process and establishing “ground rules” that call for respect, careful listening, equality in participation and other mutual understandings important to the participants. The facilitator or mediator then assists participants (or parties) to stay on task, communicate effectively, observe the ground rules and achieve the goals they set for themselves.
| Why work collaboratively?
Collaborative approaches can lead to break-through solutions on critical problems while strengthening community relationships. This is because they combine knowledge, experience and resources. We believe that at the present time greater collaboration has become a practical necessity for many issues faced at the community and local level, because:
There are complex and serious problems that continue to defy single or top-down solutions;
Conflicts over resources and strategies seriously stymie forward progress;
Responsibility for meeting critical human needs is being increasingly delegated to local government and private entities; and Citizens and other stakeholders expect greater transparency and participation in decisions that impact them. Collaboration is not needed in every situation. If an issue is straightforward, non-controversial, and has an obvious solution, the time and effort required for collaboration may not be warranted.
What does Collaboration DC offer?
Collaboration DC offers facilitation, training, process design, assessment, and consultation. We organize, manage and facilitate processes with multiple participants engaged in sustained work over time. In the network’s toolbox, we also have the capacity for less traditional strategies for fostering collaboration, including list serves and websites. With a broad network of practitioners, Collaboration DC works hard to build teams that match the needs of unique situations.
Collaboration DC engages in monitoring and evaluation of our work to learn from what we do, and share knowledge with the community, and the larger field. We connect local collaboration professionals through a periodic Practitioner Roundtable. |