Co-Canvas / Cooperation Canvas: Innovation through collaboration

Co-Canvas / Cooperation Canvas: Innovation through collaboration

In today’s article, we present our Co-Canvas, or Collaboration Canvas. This tool is based on the principle of Alexander Osterwalder’s Business Model Canvas but is specifically aimed at the design of corporate collaborations. The Co-Canvas is intended to serve as a template to simplify and make partnerships of various kinds more transparent for both parties involved. We will first discuss the development process and the motivation behind the Co-Canvas and then go into its contents.

Development of the Co-Canvas

The development of the Co-Canvas was driven by the desire to promote innovation through collaboration. We have created and continuously improved various versions of the Co-Canvas. The current version has been updated in September 2024. From our many years of experience in collaboration management, we know what is important for successful partnerships and what obstacles can arise. In particular, communication between the parties should always be open and transparent. Facilitating this, together with a clear definition of the expectations of the collaboration, are key objectives of the Co-Canvas.

Contents of the Co-Canvas

At the start of a collaboration, the parties involved must clearly define needs and approaches to solutions. The co-canvas helps to clarify important aspects such as time management, expectations and goals on both sides. A clear allocation of tasks is also part of the canvas to ensure that each partner knows their role and responsibilities. Time management is often a challenge in co-operations, especially when the company forms vary and require different amounts of time for processes. Here, the Co-Canvas provides a framework for efficient processes and defines fixed contact persons on both sides.

Another aspect that we have learnt over the years: Not every co-operation works. This is why the Co-Canvas makes it possible to define preventative measures in the event of a failed collaboration. Nevertheless, successful collaborations offer great added value for both sides. Fundamental factors for successful collaboration, such as cultivating interpersonal relationships, an exchange on an equal footing and the alignment of corporate goals, are set out in the Co-Canvas.

Who can use the Co-Canvas?

The Co-Canvas is available for free download (Word, PDF) under a Creative Commons licence (CC BY-NC-SA 3.0) and can be used by a wide range of companies, from start-ups to large corporations. It is aimed at all those who want to drive innovation through cooperation.

Feedback and further development

We welcome feedback and suggestions for the further development of the Co-Canvas in order to continuously improve it and adapt it to user requirements.