What are some tips for establishing clear roles in a collaborative partnership?

2 Define the roles and responsibilities of each partner

Once you have a clear picture of the purpose and scope of the collaboration, you need to define the roles and responsibilities of each partner, based on their strengths, expertise, and resources. You can use tools such as a RACI matrix, a MOU, or a work plan to assign tasks, deliverables, and accountabilities to each partner, and to specify how they will communicate, coordinate, and report on their activities. You should also define the roles and responsibilities of the lead partner, the steering committee, the working groups, and any other governance or operational structures that are involved in the collaboration.

4 Review and adjust the roles and expectations as needed

Collaborative partnerships are dynamic and complex, and they may change over time due to internal or external factors. Therefore, you need to review and adjust the roles and expectations as needed, based on the feedback, data, and learning that you collect throughout the collaboration. You can use tools such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, or evaluations to assess the performance, satisfaction, and impact of the collaboration, and to identify any gaps, challenges, or opportunities that may require changes in the roles and expectations. You should also celebrate the successes and acknowledge the challenges of the collaboration, and recognize the efforts and contributions of each partner.

5 Respect and value the diversity and autonomy of each partner

One of the benefits of collaborative partnerships is that they bring together different perspectives, experiences, and skills that can enrich and enhance the work. However, they also require respect and value for the diversity and autonomy of each partner, and recognition of their unique identity, culture, and mission. You should avoid imposing your views, norms, or practices on other partners, and instead seek to understand, appreciate, and learn from their differences. You should also respect the autonomy and decision-making authority of each partner, and avoid micromanaging, interfering, or undermining their work.

6 Build trust and relationships among the partners

Finally, one of the most important factors for a successful collaboration is to build trust and relationships among the partners, based on honesty, transparency, and mutual support. You should communicate openly and frequently, share your challenges and successes, and provide constructive feedback and recognition. You should also collaborate in a spirit of cooperation, not competition, and focus on the common goals, not the individual interests. You should also create opportunities for social interaction, networking, and fun, and foster a sense of belonging and camaraderie among the partners.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?