Cross‐Sector Collaboration: Lessons From Industry Self‐Regulation, Recycling and Employment for Persons With Disabilities

ABSTRACT A range of collaborative approaches to address complexity in the business environment including strategic alliances, public private partnerships, issues management alliances, innovation and enterprise zones, supply chain certification and partnerships, industry self‐regulatory systems, and technology incubators are evidence of collaboration across sectors. This paper suggests that these may be part of a bigger adaptation. Such new models may be critical in addressing challenging issues of immigration and workforce development, disruptive technologies, globalization, corruption, and sustainability. The paper builds the case that these collaborative responses are not simply new forms but represent a new logic and values. They incorporate a “both and” logic and a more ecological perspective. They recognize that going it alone may not be sufficient. Partnering with NGOs, third‐party organizations, and even government agencies may lead to better solutions. Finally, they challenge leadership to generate new conversations and ask different questions. The paper provides three detailed cases that illustrate collaborative responses to issues and new forms of adaptation including industry self‐regulation, recycling, and employment programs for persons with disabilities. It concludes with suggestions for future research.