One of the most overlooked aspects of partnerships is the ability of all partners to behave as partners, and carry out their tasks in a collaborative manner. While clarity of function and contract is important, the process of partnering (described in Chapter 6) is ultimately more critical. Municipalities often lack key skills such as listening and learning. Managers are accustomed to having to always know the answers, and have created dictatorial rather than flexible learning organisations. Implementing a partnership strategy that unifies a range of actors requires the municipality to facilitate a collaborative spirit. This is of paramount importance to the sustainability of the partnership, irrespective of what the contract says.