Moore: There is an initial process when an opportunity to collaborate comes up. Whether or not the collaboration comes into fruition I think depends on some really practical things and then some more "fit" things. For example, do you think you have a good chance of winning? Is the team likely to win this particular contract or grant or project? Will the relationships work? Will people be mutually respectful? Are people willing to agree on a division of labor that will work? Are they willing to, that the compensation for the partners is adequate and fair?

There are multiple levels on which you want to have a meeting of the minds.

It sure helps to have your relationships ahead of time. In fact people may sign mutual agreements ahead of time not to reveal things or that this is the way it's going to unfold. I think it's very important to work it out before you even decide to bid.

Helsel: And it also helps you in the work because in many cases one particular organization may have strengths in one area but doesn't quite have the strength in a certain area that's also needed to do the work well. If you can demonstrate in your response to a request for a proposal that 'we fill this piece of the work well and another organization fills another piece', then that just gives you strength to win the proposal even more.

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