An exploratory study of Alberta cross-sector partnerships using complex systems thinking

Cross-sector partnerships are developing around the world as organizations from the public, private, and non-profit sectors attempt to solve environmental and social issues. By crossing traditional boundaries, partnerships between organizations from different sectors may foster new perspectives and develop new problem solving approaches. These partnerships may provide numerous organizational and societal benefits. Because of this potential, a number of researchers have sought to clarify how and why these partnerships exist by identifying the forces that drive partnering behaviour.;Using a qualitative approach, this thesis explores five examples of cross-sector partnerships in Alberta. A literature review identified the existence of established drivers at various levels of analysis. Fourteen semi-structured interviews across five cross-sector partnerships provided confirmation that the drivers identified in the literature were influencing the Alberta partnerships. In addition, a series of drivers at the regional level were identified as important: the stable provincial political climate, the history of cross-sector collaboration, and the energy-based economy.;Complex systems thinking is proposed as a potential conceptual framework through which to study cross-sector partnerships. Complex systems thinking emphasizes the partnership's context and the relationships that exist between various partnership drivers. It also supports the identification of systems which may create a partnering climate in which cross-sector partnerships are more likely to develop and to be successful. This thesis proposes that adopting a complex systems perspective may support the development and management of cross-sector partnerships that are better able to adapt to changes in their environment and to more effectively address environmental and social issues.