Boundary spanning is reaching across borders, margins, or sections to 'build relationships, interconnections and interdependencies'* in order to manage complex problems. Boundary-spanning individuals develop partnerships and collaboration by 'building sustainable relationships, managing through influence and negotiation, and seeking to understand motives, roles and responsibilities.'* Boundary-spanning organizations create 'strategic alliances, joint working arrangements, networks, partnerships and many other forms of collaboration across organizational boundaries.'*
* Williams, P. The Competent Boundary Spanner. Public Admin. 2002; 80: 103-124.