The majority of interviewees cited collaboration as a critical success factor, whether among agencies, levels of government, or between government and non-government entities. New Jersey began its G2G effort with two state agencies; one agency had the expertise in technology and the other had solid pre-existing relationships with local governments. This combination of technical know-how and local insight helped them develop portal functionalities tailored for that user community.

Interviewees in New Jersey and at NYS DEC advocated building bridges with associations representing local governments. This strategy is intended to give the agency a measure of credibility as it begins to develop a working relationship with local governments. Interviewees in Washington suggested identifying local governments’ needs and then creating a collaborative relationship that satisfies those needs. Fairfax, VA officials stressed the need to build a collaborative relationship and remember that it is necessary to build and maintain consensus among all the players.