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Since the man first walked the earth he has collaborated with others - primarily as a survival response but later to compete more effectively against others. Collaboration has always been with us so why the current focus on collaboration as a key organisational tool? |
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Probably because organisations in our knowledge economy are realising that with increasing competitive pressures working with others more effectively is one way of once again gaining a competitive advantage. Combine this motivational force with simple physical factors such as lack of time, geographical separation and the collaboration imperative begins to emerge from the organisational fog. Increasing amounts of information coupled with a renewed focus on the management of knowledge have also highlighted how important it is to work with others as effectively as possible. Communities of practice, knowledge networks, organisational learning have all played their part in highlighting the role of collaboration. Knowledge is power but it can be even more powerful if it's shared with others.
New Approaches to Collaboration
We work with organisations to help them to develop new approaches to collaboration primarily to support sharing of information and knowledge and to facilitate learning. We also recognise the benefits of using technology to support collaboration.
We have worked with a wide variety of organisations in helping them to develop new approaches to collaboration. Frequently this involves understanding the role of collaboration within the organisation and then focussing on activities that develop collaborative approaches that lead directly to improved performance.
New Collaborative Tools
We are awash with new collaborative tools and technologies, everything from e-mail to virtual learning environments are positioned as must have tools for today's high-speed always-on collaborative climate. As with all new technologies though vendors often make over-optimistic claims for collaborative tools and expectations are often set too high. In practice we are still scratching the surface, and making lots of basic mistakes. Collaborative technologies do have the potential to oil the collaborative gears but using them effectively isn't always easy and appropriate support is required to ensure that the tools are used effectively and that they fit with the organisational culture and behaviours.
We help clients to assess their collaborative climate and help introduce appropriate processes and tools to make collaboration more effective. Frequently this means working with specific groups of people within an organisation - often promoting a collaborative approach where it really matters most - and can make a big difference to the bottom line.
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