Learning Objective #1: Describe the acronyms and concepts for the complete Leading Through Partnering Model

Learning Objective #2: Relate the rationale for use of the model in 21st century health care

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A variant form of partnering, the Leading Through Partnering Model, was developed and published in a nursing publication. It is a synthesized comprehensive operational pattern of principles for leaders depicted by the metaphor of a supporting structure for a ship's mast called a partner. The eight characteristics that make up the operational pattern are identified and described through the acronym “PARTNERS” as power-sharing, accessibility, resource-sharing, timeliness/timefulness, need-based goals, equity, respect, and sustained communication. These characteristics reflect those leaders who have integrated partnering into a coherent framework of action. To extend this model, consideration was given to the support that leaders themselves require. This support is represented by the acronym “DECK” which describes the four concepts of dedication, evaluation, capital, and know-how that top figures in organizations (corporate boards and regents' boards, for example) must provide to these leaders in order for them to be effective. The model is developed further as a metaphor using the acronym “SHIP” that represents the four forms of organizations: scholarly institutions, health care agencies, industries/government, and philanthropic groups. To complete the model, the acronym of “WATER” describes the concepts of worldview, authority, trade, exchange of cultures, and respect for environment as the global positioning system that buoys the organizations. The entire model will be presented, the concepts will be described, and arguments will be made for its significance in the twenty-first century approach to health care.