Partnering

What Is Partnering?

Partnering is defined as a formal process of collaborative teamwork that allows groups to achieve measurable results through agreements and productive working relationships. The Office of Partnering supports ADOT’s mission: Connecting Arizona. Everyone. Everywhere. Every Day, through building partnerships that support the delivery of state transportation projects and services. Successful partnerships are built on a pledge by all team members to hold true to a set of common principles referred to as the Four C’s:

  • Communication
  • Commitment
  • Cooperation and
  • Continuous Improvement

ADOT participates in three different types of partnerships:

Construction Partnerships

Between ADOT and the contractor selected to build a construction project governed by a buyer-seller contract.

The purpose is to:

  • Achieve timely issue resolution resulting in decreased project delays
  • Reduce labor disputes, claims and litigation
  • Complete projects ahead of schedule and under budget
  • Improve relationships with customers and suppliers
  • Identify efficiencies and cost savings in the delivery of a project

Public Partnerships

Between tribal entities; other state, local and federal agencies; and nongovernmental stakeholders. View the list of Public Partnerships and related documents.

The purpose is to:

  • Achieve cooperation among multiple jurisdictions
  • Coordinate efforts of a variety of agencies

Internal Partnerships

Internal partnerships may be developed among members and work units of the same organization.

The purpose is to:

  • Share information and resources
  • Streamline procedures
  • Maintain ongoing collaborative relationships

An initial Partnering workshop includes the following elements:

  • Establish a team charter which includes a mission statement and team expectations
  • Develop and commit to specific goals that will measure a team’s ability to work together
  • Identify challenges and issues that need to be addressed by the team
  • Commit to action items to address the issues and resolve problems

Partnering 101: A Guide to the Basics of Partnering with ADOT