Structural Characteristics of Partnerships

Definition of Partnership Systems of formalized cooperation. Legally binding arrangement or informal understanding. Agreement on objectives and sharing responsibility, resources, risks, and benefits. Specified duration.

Advantages Avoid duplication. Share experiences. Share information. Increase transparency. Increase accountability.

Structural Impediments Frequent change of personnel. Unclear rules and regulations. Lack of state government resources. Lack of local government resources, especially in poor, rural communities.

Impediments Continued Concern about perceived excessive government monitoring. Reluctance to share information with officials (lack of trust). Politicized NGOs with an agenda. Domination of large NGOs.

Building Partnerships Clear identification of benefits and goals. Trust built on open relationship. Shared local identity.

Building Partnerships Continued Involvement of all partners. Skilled management and staff. Sufficient time and interaction to build relationship.

General Strategies Bring representatives together. Establish consensual strategy. Establish sense of “ownership.” Develop a plan with action steps and timeline.

General Strategies Continued Provide incentives. Find resources and skills. Establish external links. Develop links between formal and informal sectors. Co-sponsor activities.

Celebrate Successes Celebrate small successes. Build on small successes. Celebrate successes together with all partners. “Find the good and praise it.” Alex Haley – Author of Roots.