Promoting public health in Norway: A case study of NGO - public sector partnership using The Bergen Model of Collaborative Functioning

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to further test the applicability of the Bergen Model of Collaborative Functioning (BMCF). Experiences in working in a newly established partnership venturing on an unclear mission were investigated. The applicability of the BMCF as a structuring tool was assessed. Method: A case-study methodology was applied. The main data was provided through semi-structured interviews with 11 informants. The case investigated is a county-initiated multi-level partnership working to improve public health. Results: The results show that the partners are committed to their mission and believe that the partnership has future prospects of achieving results. The mission's current interest, the partners' commitment and the interactions between them created positive cycles of interaction. Vague structures, unclear roles and uncertain time- and financial frames have resulted in negative cycles of interaction. The BMCF has worked well as a structuring tool helping to clarify goals and structures. Conclusions: The data clearly revealed elements of inputs, throughputs and outputs as suggested in the BMCF model. The inputs have been identified as the uniting mission, the context, partner resources and financial resources. The throughputs have been identified as input interaction, structure, rules and roles, communication and leadership. The BMCF proved to be a useful framework for studying the collaboration. The BMCF can also be a useful tool for structuring an established partnership