Strategic Alliances

Abstract

This working paper is part of a series with the overall title of “The Long Learning Journey”, retracing stages in the evolution of my intellectual curiosity and research work.

In this paper, I put my work on strategic alliances over decades into perspective, in particular showing the importance of researching interfaces and interaction processes between partners over time to understand the evolution and outcome of strategic alliances. This starts with relatively simple bilateral alliances based on compatibility, complementarity and co-specialization between partners, often researched through longitudinal research (i.e., researching the same alliances at intervals over time). Less stable learning alliances, where one partner may gain an advantage within the alliance over its partner, and their problematic outcomes, are also highlighted. The analysis then shifts to multi-lateral alliances for innovation and market creation, often a precursor to ecosystems and complex value constellations.

Keywords: Cooperation, Strategic Alliances, Alliance Evolution Collaboration Processes: Interfaces, Learning Alliances, Collaborating with Competitors, Alliance Management Processes and Skills, Multilateral alliances