cooperative principles

ITScooperative supports the principles common to all cooperatives. In ours, we combine the strengths of individual equality, democratic control, mutual respect, accountability for client services, continuous learning and best practices for information systems.

• Voluntary And Open Membership — ITScooperative does not discriminate in accepting members or clients. Diversity is  strength. So are different beliefs and opinions. The only expectation is that each member contribute her or his skills to the satisfaction of our clients and to our mutual benefit.
• Democratic Member Control — The members who work with ITScooperative run it. We share authority; share leadership, and encourage individual initiative, creativity and control of work.
• Member Economic Participation — The members of ITScooperative decide how we deploy resources. We share both risk and reward. All forms of capital - financial, human, and social - are part of that participation. We decide together how we will spend it and and grow it.
• Autonomy and Independence — ITScooperative maintains its independence and its democratic member control. We partner, collaborate, borrow and return to the community. Our cooperative principles remain the foundation of all these relationships.
• Education, Training and Information — ITScooperative learns from our clients; the communities they serve; the systems we design and implement; and we share that learning. Internally, we stimulate each others curiosity and create opportunities for expression. In seeking the best solution for our clients, we recognize that any one member of a team may be closer to the answer than the group - cooperative promotion of independent thinking.
• Co-operation Among Co-operatives — ITScooperative uses the services of cooperatives and we support economic development through cooperatives. We are a member of the Ontario Worker Co-op Federation. 
• Concern For Community — ITScooperative supports sustainable development for our clients, our cooperative, and our community. We participate as volunteers; and we provide free services and support to community voices. 

The practice of these principles is not always easy. ITScooperative places them here, in public view, for inspiration and accountability. We invite your business, your cooperative response, and your critique.