Making partnerships work
May Gurney's strategy of developing long term business relationships and partnerships was endorsed by a recent Ipsos MORI study which concluded that 'collaborative partnerships are critical to business success, and will become increasingly so'.
The research, which was commissioned by Socia, was covered recently in an article in The Financial Times.
Ipsos MORI conducted interviews with 92 director-level UK executives who are, or have been, personally involved in establishing and/or managing long-term collaborative business partnerships.
The study confirmed that senior executives see collaborative partnerships as important, and delivering real value across the public and private sectors - and that this is set to increase.
As might be expected, the most commonly identified success factor is having a shared purpose. However, mutual understanding and acceptance of each other's culture, and good relationships were also cited. The survey also revealed that 'better planning up front is needed in the large majority of partnerships'.
While the focus has traditionally been on governance and operations in partnership, most senior executives believe that in future they should focus on behaviours to realise the greatest value.
"Our focussed approach is delivering high quality services to our customers"
David Sterry, May Gurney |
The study also showed that many organisations have identified a lack of partnering capability, particularly in relationship management and collaborative leadership, and that the means to build capabilities are varied.
The research concludes that 'UK senior executives believe that partnerships are not only here to stay, but will increase both in number and significance'. And that 'the overwhelming majority believe that partnership has the potential to transform the UK's ability to meet social and business goals'.
Commenting on the research, David Sterry, May Gurney Chief Executive, said: "This study confirms that our strategy of partnership working based on long term customer relationships is now well established across business.
"Our focussed approach is delivering high quality services to our customers, and adding value to the services they provide to the public. Delivery develops trust, trust develops openness and openness breaks down barriers to improve efficiency and reduces the cost base."
Visit the Socia website to download or read the report online.
Related stories:-
Working together with West Sussex
Best supplier partner
David Sterry: "Our focussed approach is delivering high quality services to our customers"
|
