What do collaboration mean

Collaboration enables individuals to work together to achieve a defined and common business purpose. It exists in two forms:. Shared workspaces are among the most visible entries in the collaboration space. Connection matters to people, especially in the workplace. We want to work with people we trust, who understand and respect our points of view, and who work well with others, especially those who come from different backgrounds and areas of expertise.

Simply put, working collaboratively makes this possible. Working independently has its advantages. If the task at hand requires independence, then by all means, go for it.

But for many types of projects, collaboration is just more efficient. It helps us divide up a heavy workload, find creative solutions to tough problems, and wrap our heads around the big picture. An organization that makes collaboration a big part of its culture is bound to normalize this style of working, thereby creating a more efficient and more appealing workplace. Creating a collaborative workplace takes time and effort, but the payoff is well worth it. To kick-off the process at your workplace, start with new hires.

Find ways to get them out of their team, their comfort zone, and give them a chance to connect with others. Give them projects that demand collaborative solutions. Gradually, your organization will begin to see firsthand why collaboration is important. Read more by Corey Moseley. Free word lists and quizzes from Cambridge. Tools to create your own word lists and quizzes.

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Follow us. Choose a dictionary. Clear explanations of natural written and spoken English. Usage explanations of natural written and spoken English. But does a tool really exist that provides the silver bullet in making it happen? Honestly, I think that investing in collaboration technologies is unlikely to be effective without simultaneously cultivating collaborative behavior.

But I do think that the right tool can go a long way to help. Each team and organization is unique in its culture, processes, and people. For people to collaborate well, everyone needs to feel informed, engaged, and accountable.

So any tool you choose should be an enabler.