Using a broad definition of cooperatives as organizations with the
majority ownership in the hands of its customers, suppliers or employees, this book identifies factors associated with successful group enterprises. It aims to help those who promote co-operative development to be more selective in choosing situations where this type of enterprise has a good chance of working, and offers guidelines and a blueprint for support staff.

The book starts by identifying a tentative list of factors which are
believed to be associated with cooperative success. It describes how this list was refined through a survey of expert opinion, a questionnaire and analysis of published literature.

The main body of the text consists of case studies showing the range of
co-operatives in operation and providing raw material for analysis. The study is directed towards cooperatives that prioritize poverty alleviation over economic success. The conclusion draws together the findings of the survey and attempts to identify patterns and commonalties. By combining a formal historical survey with case studies the
book gives both a theoretical and experiential view of what is the
'middle' way between state ownership and the private sector.

This book is of value to anyone who is involved in the possible
establishment of a new group enterprise or advising, assisting or managing an existing one.