Inter-organizational relations: Citizen-centered resource integration in times of complexity

Book chapter, 2021

Inter-organizational collaboration and co-production are often kept separated, despite increasing evidence that collaborations require the active contribution of citizens. In this chapter we argue that citizen-centeredness is necessary in so-called resource integration among multiple actors (whether organization representatives or citizens). Building on two action research cases in a Swedish cancer context, it is suggested that the life event of having cancer and the lived experience as inhabitant in a segregated area are pivotal as resources to identify actors that can make a difference. Once actors are identified, relations may be established and maintained through integration and combination of their tangible and intangible resources targeting the citizens broader life situation. The action researcher may both facilitate such resource integration as well as contributing with their own specific knowledge in order to contribute to change for the better.