As we’ve been observing the Belgian federal negotiations, one thing stands out: months into coalition building, the foundational document is still referred to as "Bart De Wever’s note." For those of us who think about collaboration daily, particularly in the context of innovation, this raises an important question: shouldn’t a truly collaborative effort result in a concept that is collectively owned?

What Coalition Building Teaches About Collaborative Innovation

Coalition building and innovation teams share a critical similarity: they bring together diverse parties—each with unique backgrounds and objectives—to create something greater than the sum of their parts. But here’s the catch: relying too heavily on one person's concept can derail collaboration.

In coalition building, as in innovation, labeling a note as belonging to a single entity signals dominance rather than inclusion. It inadvertently says, "Here’s what I want you to agree to," instead of, "What can we build together?" This subtle yet significant distinction often leads to resistance or disengagement—two fatal blows to collaborative success.

Win-Win Collaboration: Lessons for Innovation Teams

From my experience, the best innovation teams avoid the "concept note trap" altogether. While clarity is important, documents perceived as someone’s sole creation can discourage contribution, dilute engagement, and lead to endless debates. Instead, successful teams adopt a more inclusive and collaborative approach.

Four guiding principles for building win-win partnerships:

1. Start with Discovery, Not Directives
   Begin by asking open-ended questions that invite input. Instead of presenting a complete solution, share a flexible framework that partners can help shape.
2. Focus on Shared Outcomes
   Collaborators work best when there’s a clear, collective understanding of success. Align on outcomes that matter to everyone, transforming the project into a shared mission.
3. Evolve Ownership Together
   Let the foundational document grow into something co-created by the team. This fosters trust, engagement, and a stronger sense of ownership among all contributors.
4. Co-Create Throughout the Process
   Collaboration isn’t a one-time act—it’s an ongoing effort. Involve all partners at every stage to ensure the concept reflects diverse perspectives and drives commitment.

Cost of Missed Collaboration

Failing to adopt this approach often results in half-hearted partnerships. Contributors may feel excluded from the vision and disengage from the process, leading to unnecessary friction, stifled creativity, and suboptimal results.

Let’s not forget—innovation should be as exciting as it is rewarding. Collaboration done right doesn’t just achieve better outcomes; it also makes the journey more fulfilling for everyone involved.

Turning Insight into Action

In my sessions on building win-win collaboration, I train teams overcome these challenges by embracing inclusive and dynamic approaches. By focusing on shared goals and co-creation, teams transform diverse perspectives into powerful partnerships.

This isn’t just about achieving results—it’s about making the process faster, more engaging, and ultimately more rewarding.

A Call to Co-Create

Whether you’re negotiating a government coalition or developing a groundbreaking innovation project, the path to success lies in genuine collaboration. Build a process where every voice matters, every idea has room to grow, and every participant feels part of a collective mission.

In the words of Alex Bogusky: 

"Collaboration is the new competition."

Let’s embrace it fully and create something extraordinary together.