Title: A fresh look at strategic alliances: research issues and future directions

Authors: Refik Culpan

Addresses: The Pennsylvania State University at Harrisburg, Middletown, PA 17057, USA

Abstract: This article reviews the current state of strategic alliances between and among firms by discussing the confusion concerning their epistemology and taxonomy; it offers a plain definition and typology of such ventures. Also examined are their evolution and theoretical foundations and important research questions reflected in the extant literature. After clarifying existing misconceptions and presenting a systematic treatment of strategic alliances, it aims at delineating new research issues and stimulating further research for advancement of the current body of knowledge on interfirm cooperation.

Keywords: strategic alliances; interfirm partnerships; equity alliances; joint ventures; non-equity alliances; network alliances; community of firms; alliance issues; alliance research; interfirm cooperation.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSBA.2009.023649

International Journal of Strategic Business Alliances, 2009 Vol.1 No.1, pp.4 - 23

Published online: 06 Mar 2009 *

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