The Toolkit is a guide to help diagnose, design, implement, and assess successful cross-sector collaborations. While collaborations differ in their goals, scope, and size, practitioners from any sector can use these tools to navigate their challenges. See a list of works consulted in preparing this toolkit here.
THE INTERSECTOR TOOLKIT
Jump to stage: Diagnosis | Design | Implementation | Assessment
I. DIAGNOSIS
Engage Potential Partners
The identification of and engagement with individuals and organizations that have a stake in the issue at hand to address their suitability for and interest in a cross-sector partnership
Share a Vision of Success
The agreement on a set of project goals and ideal outcomes that clarify the mission and priorities of the collaboration
Assess the History of Addressing the Issue
The examination of previous efforts at collaboration in a similar issue area
Account for Resources
The determination of financial and non-financial resources from existing and potential partners
Establish Transparency of Viewpoints
The creation of an environment in which partners can communicate openly, allowing the collaboration to address partners’ differing priorities
II. DESIGN
Build a Common Fact Base
The consensus among collaboration partners as to what facts relating to the issue are most relevant
Agree On Measures of Success
The identification of indicators to be used in evaluating the progress and results of the collaboration
Commit to Information Sharing
The requirement that partners share data relevant to the collaboration’s efforts
Share Discretion
The deliberate allocation of decision-making authority according to area of expertise
Establish a Governance Structure
The creation of a formal or informal organizational system for project management
Identify a Manager
Selecting an individual or organization that is responsible for coordinating tasks that allow the collaboration to progress
III. IMPLEMENTATION
Communicate the Interdependency of Each Sector
The development of an understanding among partners of each sector’s unique contributions, and the recognition of their differing expertise, resources, and networks
Demonstrate Organizational Competency and Ability to Execute
The ability of collaboration partners to follow through on commitments that enhance the likelihood of collaborative success
Manage Expectations of Process and Results
The capacity to communicate progress, celebrate success, encourage patience when needed, and allow for flexibility as the collaboration progresses
Recruit a Powerful Sponsor or Champion
The engagement of a person, a group of persons, or an organization committed to leveraging their influence, resources, and skills to assist the collaboration in achieving its objectives
IV. ASSESSMENT
Define the Intent of the Evaluation
A discussion among collaboration partners to arrive at a clear understanding of the purpose of an evaluation
Tell the Story
The documentation and communication of the collaboration’s outcomes and lessons learned, shared internally and externally