At last weekends Ohio Public Media camp I had an interesting conversation about the purpose of collaboration. I was speaking with an educator who is interested in using more collaboration tools (things like wiki’s or google docs) as a way of getting more out of her students in their group projects. While discussing the merits of different tools we came to a point where we realized that collaboration does not, in itself, mean working together for a larger goal – or at least it isn’t being taught (or interpreted) that way in many cases.

Consider how people come into a collaboration. First, there is the idealized way; people see an opportunity to create something new that can only be done with help from each other and so they come together to create this greater thing – giving of themselves what they can with that singular goal in sight. 

The other way is the market based collaborative effort.

This market based effort is more about trading one thing (skill, money, goods) for another to create something that couldn’t have been done by one person. This is still collaboration but the end result for those involved is usually less about what they are creating and more about that creation giving them each individually something in return (fame, fortune, a good grade).

The difference is subtle but I think important. When you are considering collaborative efforts are you looking to create a better community or are you looking to exploit the project to expand your revenue stream?

Click thru to see all of the details, the attendee list and get signed up to attend. I’m honored to be a host member for this event because I know it will be an incredible day of sharing ideas and making contacts. Only 125 spots available so get on it pronto!

You may remember that I participated in the National Public Media Camp last year in Washington, DC. That event was incredible as well and this is meant as a local extension of that event. If you’d like to read more about the original event here is my review – Community Engagement via Un-Conferences and here is a write up about my presentation there – Conversation Hosting Primer. You can also check out the Public Media Camp Wiki and other links from the original event here – PubCamp.

For current information and updates consider following @PubCampOhio – http://twitter.com/PubCampOhio on Twitter.

I’m working on a project that for now we will call A Guide to Relationship Based Leadership. I’m looking for you to submit answers to the following questions. Please feel free to send me an email, answer in the comments section or use the Contact form - if you’re willing to share. Thanks!

To frame these questions I want you to think about different parts of your life: could be work, home, volunteer or hobby. In any one (or all) of these parts of your life where do you find yourself – or someone just like you – showing leadership. Particularly when they aren’t in a traditional leadership role (like a manager, elected official, etc.).

1) How do view the idea of a non-traditional leader?

2) What is one example of leadership from a non-traditional position of power that you have experienced?

3) May I follow up with you about your answers?

Thanks ahead of time to those of you willing to participate!