As one example, the very diverse set of NSF-funded Engineering Research Centers and Science and Technology Centers attest to this. Of course, even in such a whirlwind, there are some constants to give us comfort. I offer a few drawn from my own experience that I believe will probably withstand the winds of change. The first is trust among the partners. A partnership works best when its membership is eclectic.
Different perspectives are like the best metaphors.
Odd couplings help us see the familiar as startling and fresh. Every partner should bring something of value to the table. And every partner should also have something to gain from working with the others. As in any endeavor, the best partnerships deserve the best people. All parties should be present from the start.