Investigating complexity of intersectoral collaboration: contextual framework for research

Abstract

Purpose – The aim of this paper is to explore the concept of intersectoral collaboration and to compile context-sensitive framework for further research in the field. In scientific discourse, intersectoral collaboration is recognized as an instrument for overcoming complexity of issues in public and private sectors due to its successful application in many cases. However, it cannot give its full advantages due to the lack of understanding regarding the main affecting factors, most recent obstacles as well as different contexts throughout its application. Perceived effectiveness of intersectoral collaboration might be reached with a help of aggregated and professionally applied scientific investigations in the field considering specific features of particular discourses. Design/methodology/approach – Inductive review of scientific literature as well as theoretical modelling methods were applied. Findings –Research limitations/implications – Recent literature revealed that the content of the intersectoral collaboration concept did not change significantly. The scientific discourse has been complemented by more methodological and practical observations that allow to improve collaboration management and processes and enhance possibility to achieve planned joint goal of multilateral initiative. Nevertheless, there is still insufficient literature that explains what issues are a) common for explicit collaboration and b) critical for performance in practice. In mostly, intersectoral collaboration analysis is based on successful cases. It would be useful to consider not only key success factors but also why intersectoral collaboration fails. Practical implications – In scientific discourse intersectoral collaboration is recognized as an instrument for overcoming complexity of issues in public and private sectors and NGOs due to its successful application in many cases. However, it cannot give its full advantages due to the weak understanding regarding the main affecting factors, most recent obstacles as well as different contexts throughout its application process. Perceived effectiveness of intersectoral collaboration might be reached with a help of aggregated and professionally applied scientific investigations in the field taking into account specific features of particular discourses. Thus, the contextual model compiled and insights on intersectoral collaboration made in the article can be used as a further research framework in the field. Originality/Value – The complexity of intersectoral collaboration was discussed and context-sensitive framework for research was presented. Keywords: intersectoral collaboration; multilateral interaction; management; leadership; success factors, research prospects. Research type: literature review, conceptual paper. JEL classification: D85- Network Formation and Analysis: Theory L14 - Transactional Relationships; Contracts and Reputation; Networks P13 - Cooperative Enterprises