How to make a collaboration agreement:

Some degree of challenge or tension is to be expected when collaborating. Differences in expectations, busy schedules, and diverse ways of working can occasionally lead to misunderstandings or friction.

A shared collaboration agreement is an effective investment for your group work. Align expectations early to establish a shared foundation for collaboration.

The template guides you through key questions about:

• Your shared purpose and expectations, including how you use each other’s strengths
• How you organize your work, such as meetings, time commitment, roles, and inclusion
• How you communicate and make decisions, and how you address challenges if they arise

Plan for when you follow up on the agreement
The goal is not once-and-for-all perfection – rather a joint starting point.

It needs to work as a reference point when re-negotiating and evaluating - to prevent conflict.