‘Collaboration made its first appearance in 1871. Deriving from the Latin word collaborare, the word is made up of com which means with and labore which means to work. And to work with is, really, the brutally simple meaning of the word. It’s about laboring together.
Work means applied effort, and effort implies a push against some form of resistance. Work isn’t easy and it shouldn’t be. But the results are worthwhile.’
Gone are the days when a few people wrote for a publisher who sold it on to the many just because the publisher had the production and distribution means. These days thanks to social media anyone can produce, copy and share anything to anyone at almost no cost – The principle of social media. Established for the purpose of mass collaboration.
So why do we love it?
When collaboration’s successful it’s usually down to a few core factors being present within the team’s dynamic. These factors are what give us the enjoyment in participating.
Mutual respect
In having respect for other team members it creates a positive environment for individuals to be creative and confident in their ideas.
Challenging
It’s difficult to create value alone and sometimes we hit challenges alone the way. Collaboration can help us come up with solutions to these problems as everyone’s bringing a different set of skills, ideas and expertise to the table.
Fun
If you hear of a project that sounds interesting you’re no doubt going to enjoy working on it or contributing to it.
Dedication
It’s when you don’t mind spending a few extra hours or a few late nights working through some designs, concepts or ideas. Just remember not to be the only one doing all the extra hours.
Trust
Sometimes an overload of ideas and creative input can cause a meltdown. Don’t be afraid to go back to the project’s time management to make sure you’re hitting those milestones. Redirect the team back to the design brief if you begin to stray can also be helpful. Being professionals we should trust in the ones who make these call in order to move the project forwards.
Do you want to start collaborating with others?
Searching the Internet I came across a project called hitRECord. A project working on mass collaboration by collecting together illustrators, designers, film makers, editors, etc. to work on various projects. Just sign up at their site to get involved.
I’m currently collaborating on a new project called Life in 5. Life in 5 is currently undergoing some branding but we already have the concept: Stories shared. Lessons learnt. Users will share 5 memories, lessons, photographs, images, etc. all with an underlining good message behind it. Sign up for the mailing list and we can let you know how to get involved.
I’m sure there are other collaboration projects out there so feel free to share them in the comments below and lets get collaborating!