One writer and I collaborated on a spec script. I wrote one section, we revised it together before she wrote the next section, and so on. My strength was in dialog, hers was in plotting, so be balanced one another well.

That same writer and I teamed up to lead a beginning screenwriting workshop. She's a playwright and wasnt' as familiar with standard screenplay formats as I was, so I covered the technical aspects. She had teaching experience and came up with great ideas to get the participants involved.

The other writer I wrote a spec script with was in Australia. He's great with stories, and while he knows a lot of American slang from watching movies and TV shows, a lot of Aussie-isms were slipping into his writing, so along with contributing to the storyline and dialog, I helped him navigate the strange waters of US colloquialisms.

I agree with all of your points, Lori. Egos seem to be the biggest issue in collaborations. If one person's ego is too big (or too fragile) to accept constructive criticism or another viewpoint, they won't be able to work toward their common goal.

You've nailed many of the elements for success, Lori. It's a given that writers have creativity (at least I hope so) although some are more tuned into it than others.

So, you need to have a dash of the technical and organizational skills. And it's so much better when the individual actually likes to do those things.

You also have to trust each other and be supportive-have their back. If there's problems, it's shared and not anyone's fault.

And with all that comes respect. Can't wait to see what you & Anne have put together!