The document discusses different types of partnerships ranging from informal cooperation to formal mergers. It presents a continuum of partnership models from less complex forms like sharing information to more complex forms like full mergers, noting that each type involves different levels of shared goals, resources, risks and rewards. The most complex and intensive forms of partnership like mergers are also the most difficult to achieve and least common.

1. PARTNERS

2. Partnership: key questions What is the purpose? What form should it take? Are the shared aims realistic? Who should be involved? How formal should it be? (Consortia? Sub-contracts?)

3. Partnership continuum cooperation coordination merger collaboration Types of activity more less complexity and intensity Sharing info for mutual benefit Referrals Informal support Separate goals, resources, structures

4. Partnership continuum cooperation coordination merger collaboration Types of activity more less complexity and intensity Sharing info for mutual benefit Referrals Informal support Separate goals, resources, structures Event / short-term project Some planning/ division of roles Some shared resources, risks & reward Individual identities maintained

5. Partnership continuum cooperation coordination merger collaboration Types of activity more less complexity and intensity Sharing info for mutual benefit Referrals Informal support Separate goals, resources, structures Event / short-term project Some planning/ division of roles Some shared resources, risks & reward Individual identities maintained New structure with common goals All partners contribute resources + gain rewards Longer commitment + durable partnerships

6. Partnership continuum cooperation coordination merger collaboration Types of activity more less complexity and intensity Sharing info for mutual benefit Referrals Informal support Separate goals, resources, structures Event / short-term project Some planning/ division of roles Some shared resources, risks & reward Individual identities maintained New structure with common goals All partners contribute resources + gain rewards Longer commitment + durable partnerships Most complex Complete integration Most difficult to achieve Least common Multiple variables

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