Collaboration for Transformation: Designing Boundary Spaces for Dealing with Difference
About this ebook
The theoretical framework presents two bodies of theory with transformative intent, brought into systemic dialogue. The first, termed theories of transformative difference, draws on discourses of tensions and paradox management within sociology, organizational studies, and collaboration theory. The second, termed theories of spatial agency, builds on perspectives from sociology, geography, and architecture. The study comprises three cases encompassing a total of six boundary spaces of varying duration and organizational configurations. The resulting five articles demonstrate that viewing collaborative difference spatially clarifies how boundary spaces create transformative impact. Specifically, the results show that: 1) spatial enabling structures support boundary spaces in achieving impact; 2) contradictory tensions in boundary spaces can be understood and managed as spatially situated dilemmas and paradoxes to enhance transformative effects; 3) distinct spatial capacities and qualities contribute to the transformative potential of transdisciplinary (TD) research; and 4) cross-actor collaboration needs additional impact spaces through which new knowledge can be translated into action.
The model, proposed from a synthesis of the findings from the five articles, demonstrates a spatial progression of dealing with difference through which transformation unfolds across structural, cognitive, relational, and material dimensions. Derived from the model, the thesis presents recommendations for actors designing and performing boundary space practices. By positioning space as an active and mediating force in cross-actor collaboration, this research contributes to design practice, transition design, and to collaborative and TD scholarship concerned with societal transformation. It further advances spatial theory by framing collaborative space as a transformative construct, bringing together design practice, cross-actor collaborative theories, and spatial thought.
