This theme area depicts the four key factors that contributed to an unsuccessful partnership. The information for this section is drawn primarily from the interview data and the key stakeholder experiences with partnership development in general, and with the Business and Labour Program. Conflicting objectives and hidden agendas during the initial development of a partnership can lead to a failed effort. These characteristics can also surface halfway through the process. As well, a lack of agreement on basic working principles while formulating the groundwork can also derail a partnership. If the direction of the partnership goals changes without the consensus of the other partners, it can turn into a one-person show. When these circumstances occur, the project work is shaky. Overall, when project objectives are primarily tied to accountability, there is little room to advance the social development approach to workplace literacy and essential skills.
Another factor affecting success is the working relationship among partners. Characteristics that can dampen a partnership and its work are broken trust, a lack of honesty, and an unclear flow of information among partners. At some point in the partnership development process, norms are formed in the group and need to be followed. For example, if there is an imbalance of work among partners, it can then affect the relationship.
“The staff took a very proactive approach.”
LABOUR EXPERT