Collaborative Working

Working with others, whether formally or informally, in a cooperative way which involves sharing information and ideas, to produce a positive outcome for all concerned.

This approach will often be practiced where a common, mutually beneficial, aim is required, although for those involved, they may have a range of differences, especially expertise and experiences. The coming together by working collaboratively will likely be much more successful than taking a competitive or antagonistic approach.

Whilst similar to team working, this approach provides for a less structured approach, being a flatter structure than the traditional pyramidal approach to line management, that can allow for a more fluid reaction to changing circumstances as a project develops. Another important distinction from team working is that of decision-making which is through consensus rather than being driven by those more senior within the team.

Where creativity and brainstorming are required then taking a collaborative working, rather than a team working, approach will often provide better results because this is more encouraging for idea generation and building on those ideas, especially in early stages of a project.