Establishing a Collaboration Contract to Facilitate Team Performance

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2016

Publication Title

Journal of Doctoral Nursing Practice

Abstract

Effective collaboration is essential for team projects whether related to research, evidence-based practice, or quality improvement efforts and is especially relevant to the doctor of nursing practice (DNP)-prepared nurse (American Association of Colleges of Nursing [AACN], 2006). Highquality projects are accomplished through planning and organization and cannot be left to chance (Yonge, Skillen, & Henderson, 1996). A collaboration contract negates the "left to chance" philosophy by promoting clarity of roles, responsibilities, and team processes. Seven "Cs" of collaboration (contribution, communication, commitment, compatibility, consensus, credit, and cohesion) provide a guiding format for essential components of a contract (Govoni & Pierce, 1997; Lancaster, 1985). is article describes these components and the process for establishing a collaboration contract. An example of a contract is provided that can serve as a template for team projects. Approaches to adapting the contract for use with teams of varied composition are shared. A collaborative contract, along with professional conduct standards, supports achievement of the team goal.

DOI

10.1891/2380-9418.9.1.13

Volume

9

Issue

1

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