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It is the long history of humankind (and animal kind, too)
that those who learned to collaborate and improvise most effectively have prevailed.
— Charles Darwin, English Naturalist, (1809 – 1882)
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What I've Learned Working with Partners
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Though you may have your own organization fully under control, it is the ability to partner outside your organization that is going to bring far-reaching success: People are the Most Important ThingThe ability to work effectively with many different types of people is the most critical factor in the success of nearly any effort. Even in 'pure technology', it's the people on which the effort depends. Organizations Also Need InterfacesIf you want more partners to connect then simplify the process. Think of the experiences enabled by the standardized USB cable — then apply that principle to your organizational interfaces. Partners are Better than VendorsWhatever the official relationship might be, treat a vendor like partner and they will start to act like one. No matter what they are selling, they have knowledge and insight that is valuable to you. Vendors Want to Share Their WisdomEven if you don’t buy their product, you can learn a lot about the eco-system, the problem and prospective solutions from what a prospective vendor tells (and doesn’t tell) you in their pitch. Everyone Shares Some Common GroundIt may take time to find, but everyone shares common goals, beliefs or experiences. Identify those, then frame what you're trying to achieve accordingly, and your message will resonate. Everyone Works Harder When They Get Something Out of ItJust like you, partners don’t like to waste time, energy, or money. Show them how meeting your needs will also meet theirs and they will work much harder for you. |
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