Collaboration Maureen Leif, J.D. Child Support Coordinator, Colorado Judicial Branch, USA "Coming together is a beginning, keeping together is progress, and working together is success.“ Henry Ford

Collaboration What is it? ▫More than two people working together to create something or reach a goal Critical to achieving the best possible outcome

Barriers to Collaboration Absence of Effective Communication Strategies Incorrect Assumptions Lack of Shared Vision Limited Flexibility Cultural Differences Wrong or Missing Stakeholders Weak Relationships

Principles of Collaboration Shared Vision Transparency Persistence Clear Communication Listening Stakeholder Involvement Understanding Roles Relationships

Successful Collaborations Stakeholders have an interest in both processes and results Multiple layers of decision-making Flexibility Identification of clear roles and responsibilities Adaptability Open & frequent communication Established formal and informal communication links Concrete attainable goals and objectives Shared vision

Liaison Position Having staff dedicated to Collaboration changes the overall atmosphere ▫Collaboration becomes an expected outcome ▫Time and resources are available for this purpose ▫Shows commitment at the organization level

Key Responsibilities of this Liaison Providing objective view Facilitating communication Conducting appropriate research Sharing data to help resolve questions Mediation when needed

Judicial Child Support Huddle

Strategies Conventional structures used to organize how people routinely work together stifle inclusion and engagement. Try using alternative meeting structures, find ideas at: Team Diversity- Staff projects with unlikely candidates Identify and include dissenters with alternative perspectives Designate a “connector”

Strategies Strategy before technology Implement user-friendly Collaborative platform Create opportunities for relationship building as part of business strategy De-brief after every project on lessons learned and evident mistakes Utilize Outreach Plan (showcase collaboration)

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