Power Through Collaboration: The Formula for Success in Challenging Situations

Posted on Jun 10, 2014

Book authored by Stephen Willis, Ph.D.

Review by Gloria Vanderhorst, Ph.D.

Dr. Willis captures the essence of the collaborative process: people. He proceeds to detail how cooperation, motivation and process come together to create change. This book is part of series on collaboration and drills down into the “how” of the process which is the “Power Through Collaboration” (PtC) model.

He clearly defines collaboration and distinguishes it from co-operation. After detailing what collaboration is NOT in 12 different ways, he defines collaboration and states that this process is the “ultimate source of power” for achieving each other’s goals. As he continues to develop the concept, he masterfully details the conflict between self-interest and caring for others with illustrations from current history. His business models bring home the point that the concept of caring for others which is at the core of collaboration is the better organizational principle that leads to sustainable outcomes.

Dr. Willis looks into the future and the enormous capability of technology to function for the benefit of its people or the detriment. We are clearly at a point in history where the choice has to be made. As our privacy is eroded through massive data collection and our world shrinks, we must choose how to manage technology.

He uses examples from industry, politics and international relations to illustrate his ideas, drawing the reader into an understanding of the concepts and the importance of being an agent for change. As he illustrates the influence and power of technology, the reader is compelled to think deeply about how to act within our sphere of influence.

The concept of “Power through Collaboration” is illustrated with real life examples. This small book may appear to be a quick read; however, the detail and the conceptualization require slow careful contemplation. This is a book that every practice group could read together to build skill and understanding of how to implement the collaborative process. Dr. Willis makes it clear that we must choose.

You can get your own copy of this book by clicking on its image:

     ALSO BY DR. WILLIS: PtC: WHEN to Collaborate…