Partnerships achieve their maximum potential when the right mix of people from many organizations are involved. A core group of high-level leaders from the various sectors who endorse the mission of the partnership and agree to share the risks and benefits equally is essential for success. Commitment to the partnership is fostered by developing a sense of ownership among the various organizations. The commitment must be long term, sustained, and emerge from all sectors involved in the partnership. Developing a Formal Plan.
Goals serve as an incentive and as a means for measuring accountability.
In addition, a collaborative process for arriving at goals and objectives can ensure consensus and expand ownership of the project. The best plans include an obvious chain of command, are signed by all top leaders, and are publicized. Implementing the Plan. The management role may be assumed by the Private Industry Council, the local Chamber of Commerce or by an organization created especially for the purpose of managing the partnership. The management function may emerge from the initial brokering efforts of an intermediary organization.