How Does a HDP Collaborative Form? (Part 8)
Setting the Table for Collaborative Success
HDP collaboration begins with the need to address a complex issue or seize an opportunity, a coordinator has been identified, the search for funding is underway, relationships among the coordinator and partners develop, evolve and strengthen, a facilitator is contracted, meetings convene, partners work together exploring the essence of the issue, culture of the collaborative is developing, a coordinating committee is determined, operating principles are developed, a meeting schedule is agreed upon and strategic planning begins. As conversations happen, each collaborative uses a consensus model for decision making and how the collaborative table is set can either help or hinder conversations and decision making.
The Foundation: Purpose and Planning
While logistics are crucial, the true foundation of a successful collaborative meeting lies in its purpose. For HDP collaboratives, this process begins with the coordinating committee determining the meeting's objective. From this purpose, a strategic agenda emerges, serving as a conversation guide aligned with the collaborative's vision.
Key Elements of Meeting Preparation
1. Coordinating committee establishes the meeting's purpose
2. There is the creation of a strategic agenda
3. HDP manages logistics: location, technology requirements, caterings, skilled facilitation* and expectations. HDP plays a crucial part in informing participants about what to expect from collaborative meetings and communicating potential outcomes of the collaboration process.
*The Critical Role of Facilitation
As emphasized previously, successful collaboration relies heavily on talented facilitators who can guide conversations effectively.
Participant Engagement: The Heart of Collaboration
The success of a collaborative meeting also depends on who chooses to participate and what they bring to the table. Key questions to consider:
1. What unique perspectives do participants offer?
2. Do they see value in working together on complex issues?
3. Are they willing to engage in patient, thoughtful discussion?
Guidelines for Productive Participation
To ensure successful conversations, participants are encouraged to:
1. Pay close attention
2. Listen actively and seek understanding
3. Voice their perspectives and experiences
4. Ask questions
5. Show respect for all participants
6. Practice patience
7. Value and consider scientific input
8. Make and follow through on commitments
We also ask participants to not walk into the door with a pitch: Are You Pitching or Asking: There are two easy ways to tell: First, if you have a script or a highlighted goal in mind, you’re pitching. You’re simply asking questions to create connection, tension or forward motion. Second, if you’re willing to learn and change your point of view as a result of the conversation, you’re asking. That’s rare. People can tell. ~James Clear, Atomic Habits. This quote hits at a critical element of practicing HDP collaboration, we ask everyone to come in with an open, nimble heart and mind that is willing to consider multiple points of view.
By adhering to these principles, collaboratives create an environment where complex issues can be addressed and shared goals achieved.
*In October, we talk about High Desert Partnership's neutral position in the collaborative process.
