Dynamics of Interorganizational Relationships: A Case Study of Upstream Partnerships of Petrobras

Abstract

Interorganizational relationships (IOR) arise under many different structures and can take the form of alliances, networks, partnerships and joint ventures, amongst others. This study looks at such relationships using a static approach that reverts to the starting point of interorganizational relationships, without, however, allowing for the dynamics of these relationships in the results presented. The main approaches to dynamic analysis are reviewed and a case study on the upstream partnerships of Petrobras is developed. The results underline the importance of the contractual structure applied to Petrobras's partnership models.

Keywords: partnerships, interorganizational relationships, performance, outcomes