I play piano for a church choir that sings fairly regularly. Last weekend, the person in charge of coordinating choir groups, musicians and schedules came to me and asked if it was all right if a bass player joined us that day. She even said it was okay to say no. I did not hesitate. The answer of course is "Yes!" I wondered to myself why that was even a question.
Many great musicians have collaborated and recorded even more spectacular sessions with other great musicians. If nothing else, adding bass just makes for better sound. And what is the worst that could happen? He may be off tempo or off key some of the time, but not all the time, and in the grand scheme of things, does it really matter? All I see is a great upside to improve the music. We weren't curing cancer or solving world hunger. We weren't recording the next great American Songbook. Sure, in a more professional setting, you'd want some practice time together first. This isn't that.
Turns out he was great. We'd like to have him back.
For a team attempting to solve a business problem, it is almost always better to welcome a new addition who has expertise. That fresh perspective always keeps things interesting. The only downside I can think of is when it is late in the game and you have to train someone. But if someone is coming in with experience, by all means, let's collaborate! There may be a solution the existing group hasn't thought of.
In music, and in business, never pass on the chance to collaborate.
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