Table 1 Types of shared mental models for policy implementation

Policy related

Shared knowledge and understanding of policy goals, implementation strategies, contingency plans and environmental conditions as well as shared policy-relevant knowledge

Stakeholders work towards a common vision efficiently and effectively

Stakeholder related

Shared knowledge and understanding of respective responsibilities, role interdependencies and communication mechanisms as well as shared understanding of others’ expertise, skills and preferences

Stakeholders accurately tailor their behaviour to what they expect from others, particularly when time and circumstances do not permit explicit communication and strategising

Beliefs

Shared perceptions, opinions and values of key issues relevant to the policy

Stakeholders interpret and frame issues in a similar way, thereby reducing conflict