The Consequences of Partner Selection in Service Delivery Collaborations

Abstract

Although the potential benefits of collaboration have received considerable attention, determinants of its effectiveness remain poorly understood. This paper explores the role of partner selection on the perceived effectiveness of service delivery collaborations. Using data on children and family services in Los Angeles County, we consider the impact of different motivations for partner selection (programmatic needs, enhanced organizational legitimacy, reduced transaction costs) on collaborative outcomes for clients, inter-organizational relationships, and organizational development. We find that client goal achievement is enhanced when partners are selected to meet specific programmatic needs. Interorganizational relationships are impacted by all 3 motivations. Transaction costs have a significant role in organizational and inter-organizational outcomes. The policy implications of these different impacts are developed. The results provide considerable support for the role of partner selection in the effectiveness of collaborations, and specificity about the nature of that role.

Keywords: public service delivery, collaboration

JEL Classification: H40