The Characteristics of Partnerships Addressing Complex Challenges: A Thematic Synthesis of Case Studies of Collective Action

Purpose: This paper reports the findings of a thematic synthesis of 11 case studies, in which two or more individuals or groups work in partnership, purposefully utilising social capital to engage in collective action towards a positive societal and/or environmental purpose. From the synthesis, a conceptual model is offered to support understanding of the characteristics of effective partnerships that may contribute to addressing complex global problems. Approach: The methodology used is a thematic synthesis, based on Thomas and Harden’s approach to synthesising multiple case studies in the field of medical research. We adapted their method to the formation of general social theory. Findings: The conceptual model posits the presence of six characteristics of partnership, which occur in different combinations and to differing extents as mediated by the context, that contribute to a partnership’s capacity to exchange social capital in order to address complex problems. Originality/Value: As society faces an increasingly complex set of global challenges, and as patterns of human behaviour become more individualistic, it will be increasingly important for the concept of partnerships to inform how organisations contribute positively to social outcomes. The conceptual model for the characteristics of partnerships in addressing complex challenges is a means to generate new understanding of this topic, and from which new organisational practices may develop.