From Conflict to Collaboration: Stakeholder Bridging and Bonding in Clayoquot Sound

Date

2001

Authors

Boutilier, R. G.
Svendsen, A.C.

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Collaborative Learning and Innovation Centre for Sustainable Community Development, Simon Fraser University

Abstract

This case study analyzes the seven year development of the relationship between a forestry company and a coalition of environmental stakeholder groups opposing the clearcutting of old growth forests in British Columbia. Central actors’ retrospective accounts suggest the move from interorganizational conflict to interorganizational collaboration requires an intervening interpersonal stage in which individuals from each side develop mutual trust. Events suggest third parties can catalyze the transitions into, and out of, the interpersonal trust stage. Comparisons with a similar case imply that advocacy stakeholder coalitions must achieve internal bonding before attempting bridging. The authors suggest firms facing hostile stakeholders should focus, first, on structural factors to end the conflict, second, on interpersonal trust to understand stakeholders’ views, and third, on shared values and cognitive frameworks to spark collaboration.

Description

Keywords

social capital, interorganizational conflict, interorganizational trust

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