This paper describes the nature of the relationships developed between the technical assistance team of the Documentation and Technical Assistance (DTA) Project and members of a Chicago (Illinois) school district staff with whom the DTA worked. First, the methodology with which the technical assistance work was studied is described, as is the staffing process of the study team. Then, the structure of the Chicago Assistance Team and how that structure relates to building and maintaining relationships are discussed. This section of the paper details the ongoing nature of relationships, utilization of prior relationships, networking, resource provision, and linking to researchers. The following section reviews tactics utilized in relationship building, including: (1) involving school participants in contact events; (2) designing activities that require cooperation; (3) preparing for school visits; (4) utilizing outside resources; (5) maintaining relationships; (6) correcting misrepresentations; and (7) ending relationships. Also examined are the importance of individual relationships and team functioning and the way that the internal functioning of the DTA team affected relationships with school staff. Trust and shared experiences are concluded to be the most important aspects of relationship building in technical assistance efforts. (GC)