Title: Determining factors in the success of strategic alliances: an empirical study performed in Portuguese firms

Authors: Mário Franco

Addresses: Management and Economics Department, University of Beira Interior, Estrada do Sineiro, 6200-209 Covilhã, Portugal.

Abstract: Despite alliances being seen as one of many strategies that can lead firms to success, they are not always successful. This study intends to identify the determining factors of success in strategic alliances. To attain this objective, we present the results obtained from an empirical investigation based on some key informant interviews and a sample of 109 alliances formed by Portuguese firms. The most outstanding factors affecting alliance success are shown to be a good relationship with the partner, mutual trust, a minimum commitment between the parties, and clear objectives and strategy. The logistic regression results also suggest that strategic alliance success is influenced more by process than structural factors. Finally, we conclude that to examine strategic alliance success, potential partners, managers and institutions are advised of several dimensions: (a) relationships and compatibility, (b) harmony and organisational culture, (c) interaction between partners and (d) government policies and previous experience.

Keywords: success factors; strategic alliances; structural factors; process factors; effectiveness; performance; Portugal.

DOI: 10.1504/EJIM.2011.042734

European Journal of International Management, 2011 Vol.5 No.6, pp.608 - 632

Published online: 11 Jan 2015 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article