LESSONS IN COLLABORATION: THE EXPERIENCE OF COLLABORATIVE R&D IN THE SUGAR YIELD DECLINE JOINT VENTURE

THE Sugar Yield Decline Joint Venture (SYDJV) was established in 1993 to bring the expertise of several R&D organisations to bear on a serious productivity issue in the Australian sugar industry. After a positive mid-term review, the SYDJV was renewed in 1999 for a second term, which will conclude in 2005. The SYDJV was established at a time of increasing interest in the collaborative research model that endorsed the value of research partnerships. Advantages were anticipated through partners bringing a range of expertise to bear on a particular issue, which was not available in a single researcher or even a single organisation. The SYDJV experience over the past 11 years illustrates many of the advantages and the disadvantages of the collaborative approach to R&D. The paper explores the collaborative processes of the SYDJV, and outlines the rewards and penalties that have been experienced. Pressures and incentives for collaboration and cooperation are increasing and recommendations are provided to assist R&D managers address issues and facilitate optimal outcomes from collaborative activities.