8 Actions To Get Real Traction In Partnering

 

So, what actions are needed to take partnering to a new level and truly solve our tough problems. Below are 8 actions that we believe are crucial if we are to get real traction on these tough challenges.

1. ARE THE RIGHT ORGANISATIONS AND PEOPLE INVOLVED?

  • Recognition that one sector or organisation cannot solve these complex problems alone – it will take actors from across government, business and civil society to work together in new ways if we are really going to achieve the transformational change we need

  • Engage effectively with those involved in the issue and establish who needs to be involved.

  • Ensure buy in from across the Partnering eco system, not just rely on the partner representatives sitting at the table - go deeper into each partner organisation and key external stakeholders as well

  • Fan out when looking for potential partners – seek out diverse views and inputs to enable robust debate

2. CENTRE THE PROBLEM 

  • Too often we see one organisation or sector take control of a tough problem and want to own it to the exclusion of others. Whether they feel if they own it, they will get the credit when it is solved or more likely they fear what the solution may involve and likely costs. Either way this stifles creativity and limits the real opportunities for solutions that will actually make a difference

  • What we need to do is put the problem at the centre between all parties involved and keep it there

  • Everyone needs to come to the table and agree exactly what the problem is then work together collaboratively to solve it

3. SET UP MULTI SECTOR/ORGANISATION PLATFORMS

  • To ensure the partnering process is managed effectively with all parties coming to the table

  • Establish a neutral space where all parties come together with an Independent Facilitator or Chair

4. CO DESIGN THE SOLUTION PROCESS

  • Often those involved in a tough problem are very task focussed and want to dive in and jump to solutions, rather than spend some time co designing a smart process which will get you there quicker and with better outcomes

  • Be proactive and co-design the process together with all parties  

5. MAINTAIN THE POWER BALANCE

  • The inability to maintain equity in the solution process when more than one organisation or sector is involved is a major impediment and can limit and restrict others involvement and contribution to any possible solution

  • Ensure equity in decision making is maintained between all parties throughout the solution process

6. GIVE PERMISSION TO MAKE DECISIONS

  • Ensure all who are at the partnering table and representing your organisation are empowered to make decisions

  • This will enable better debate and faster decision making

7.  SHARE ACCOUNTABILITY

  • We often lack the ability to have the really tough conversations that will initiate change. Our desire to maintain the status quo and not upset others for fear of funding cuts or other impediments perpetuates a softly softly approach rather than asking the tough questions at the right time

  • Don’t avoid asking the hard questions and ensure all parties are accountable for their actions and the results

8. LET GO AND TAKE RISKS

  • People often come to issues with very fixed positions and have great difficulty listening and learning from others involved. We are all experts, and it seems we have trouble accepting that we may in fact be wrong and there may be a better way of doing things

  • Enable creative solutions by not overly controlling the process or this will restrict the results

We hope that your are able to take some tangible actions to apply to your partnering. If your looking to further your partnering, then please check out our Partnering Training Courses.

 
Partnering TipsIan DixonComment