Collaborative Process Design
What is the best way to design a collaborative process?
At OCDR, we define collaborative problem-solving as a systematic approach for people with different views and interests to find workable shared solutions to complex challenges. We use a five-step collaborative problem-solving model to guide our process, and tailor our approach to the unique needs of the parties involved and the issue area.
Collaborative processes can take many forms. and no two collaborative processes look exactly alike. A collaborative process may involve a wide range of activities from joint fact-finding and developing policy recommendations, to field trips and community dialogues. Collaborative process design involves intentionally designing a problem-solving process so it meets the needs of all parties. The design process may require a few meetings, or it may take weeks and involve input from all parties on how they would like to structure the initiative. Figuring out how to structure a collaborative initiative is called the design process.
Collaborative processes need to be open, inclusive and have high-level support to be effective. A convener and/or a sponsor may help ensure a collaborative process meets these criteria. A third-party neutral or facilitator might be involved when the conflict is complex and includes many stakeholders with divergent perspectives.
OCDR guides
- OCDR 5-step collaborative-problem solving model
- CPS process design overview
- Assessment process overview
- Group agreements for collaborative processes
- Task force charter template
- Cognitive biases and distortions common in collaborative problem solving
- Developing a problem solving mindset
- Facilitation for collaborative problem solving
- Collaborative problem-solving glossary
- Conflict resolution FAQ
Recommended resources
- Designing Systems and Processes for Managing Disputes: Book with practical advice and case studies on solving complex disputes.
- The Consensus Building Handbook: A Comprehensive Guide to Reaching Agreement: A complete and detailed guide to designing collaborative processes.
- A Facilitator’s Guide to Participatory Decision-Making: Provides useful facilitation tools and advice for collaborative and consensus building efforts.
- Collaborating with the Enemy: How to Work with People You Don't Agree with or Like or Trust: A book about how to embrace disagreement to collaboratively develop better solutions.
- Ten Principles for Collaborative Problem-Solving provides a user-friendly description of the key steps needed to resolve conflicts collaboratively.
- Udall Foundation’s National Center for Environmental Conflict Resolution: This center offers foundational trainings in collaborative-problem solving
- Keystone Policy Center Trainings: Keystone Policy Center works on contentious public policy issues and their trainings help you learn how to navigate high conflict on multi-party issues.
- Harvard Law School's Program on Negotiation: Hosts a daily blog and free resources on negotiation and other alternative dispute resolution methods.
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