Research identifying strategies and factors that facilitate or inhibit interagency collaboration helped the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and Research for Better Schools (RBS) discover whether they could work together. In a one-year experimental project, MSDE and RBS staff attempted three tasks: identification of common priorities, implementation of pilot activities based on these priorities, and development of long-range plans. Anticipated barriers to collaboration involved resources, external and internal pressures, and motivation and support. Using strategies derived from research findings, the two agencies overcame the barriers and completed the tasks. Successful strategies included task restructuring, flexible planning, control sharing, teaming, participation of staff from all levels, tapping of individual motivation, and ongoing communication both within and between agencies. A model of interagency collaboration based on the project highlights the interaction of six dimensions, including tasks, resources, interdependence, multidirectional communication, goals, and commitment. (Author/RW)