At IsoMeridian we know that there isn't a 'standard' approach to collaboration. Each collaborative initiative has different dynamics and unique characteristics that must be considered. What works well in one situation can fall flat in another.
But ...
We've found that there are some logical starting points and our approach tends to (initially) fall into three phases:
But ...
We've found that there are some logical starting points and our approach tends to (initially) fall into three phases:
The Agenda Clarity phase focusses on the collaboration participants and their individual perspectives of the environment. It is grounded in the knowledge that there are always competing interests in any collaborative initiative - even in commercial environments where participants are tangibly rewarded for their participation. Agenda clarity helps to surface potential issues (such as unforseen conflicts of interest) before they become serious problems and ensures that everybody is on the same page. It builds understanding of the different pressure points throughout the network and how they can best be managed.
The Outcomes Alignment phase establishes a common understanding of the future ... and the different paths to that future. The intention is to establish collective agreement on the goal, the approach and individual responsibilities. It goes beyond "who will do what" and also identifies participant linkages including key dependencies and handoffs - in the process minimising activity overlaps and gaps that reduce efficiency and compromise success. The phase concludes with agreement on core collaboration protocols around communication, coordination and cooperation.
The Network Balance phase ensures that the collaboration network remains continuously contemporary℠ - capable of 'flexing' with changing dynamics but always focused on the right outcomes. It is an (independent) management and oversight phase that monitors the overall health of the network, resolves disputes, adjusts participation (as/when needed) and embeds 'future proofing' through regular contingency planning. As an independent agent for the network, IsoMeridian acts as the advocate for collective success and ensuring that minor obstacles don't become major roadblocks.