August 2023 Edition

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Changemakers are hungry to find ways to generate greater impact on the complex, interconnected social and environmental issues confronting communities. Our standard problem-solving approaches are just not always achieving the results we need. 

Collaboration is more effective at solving complex problems because it brings together diverse sectors and groups to learn and work together. The paper Collaboration: Solving the Puzzle of Collaborative Governance outlines the various capacities that partners need to lead together and share ownership for their collaborative work. And, in Five Community-Driven Pathways for Systems Change, those working on the front lines of systems change share wisdom about what collaborators need to sustain this long-term work.  

In this month's issue of Engage!, we are sharing insights and resources for how to build a foundation for partners to unite their diverse perspectives and work together to co-deliver solutions that achieve the impact that our communities urgently need.  

Solving the Puzzle of Collaborative Governance

Liz Weaver’s latest article in the 2022-23 Collaborative Governance and Leadership Series maps out some of the considerations we should make when planning – and evaluating – capacities for effective cross-sector collaboration and shared leadership. 

Five Community-Driven Pathways for Systems Change 

Five Community-Driven Pathways for Systems Change: Systems change is essential to achieve high-impact, lasting community change. The recently released paper Voices from the Frontlines: Community-Driven Pathways for Systems Change in Aotearoa is a must-read for anyone whose work includes changing systems. The paper draws upon front-line wisdom to identify five pathways for making systems change work easier and more effective.  

Tool: Co-Defining the Dilemma

Collaboration with those we know and those we do not is essential for generating the innovative new solutions that are necessary to achieving impact. This tool, shared by Australian consultant Max Hardy, considers the best way to frame the focus question that guides our shared work. It invites us to map the perspectives of various stakeholders to develop a meaningful question that resonates with all, one that, rather than inspiring polarization, encourages collective creativity.