The Consequences of Partner Selection in Service Delivery Collaborations

27 Pages Posted: 27 Oct 2009

See all articles by Elizabeth Graddy

Elizabeth Graddy

University of Southern California - Sol Price School of Public Policy

Bin Chen

City University of New York (CUNY) - School of Public Affairs

Date Written: September 1, 2006

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

Suggested Citation

Graddy, Elizabeth A. and Chen, Bin, The Consequences of Partner Selection in Service Delivery Collaborations (September 1, 2006). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=1494549 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.1494549

Elizabeth A. Graddy (Contact Author)

University of Southern California - Sol Price School of Public Policy ( email )

RGL 208 mc 0626
Los Angeles, CA 90089-0626
United States
213-740-5725 (Phone)
213-740-0001 (Fax)

Bin Chen

City University of New York (CUNY) - School of Public Affairs ( email )

135 E 22nd St
New York, NY 10010
United States

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