A Conceptual Model of Key Joint Actions of Partners in the Operational Phase of Strategic Alliance

The main objective of this study is to develop a coherent and valid conceptual model for measuring and evaluating key and common actions of two partner companies to succeed in the operational phase of a strategic partnership. In designing the model, attempts have been made to take into account the various theoretical perspectives found in the literature research. In this research, the proposed model and related hypotheses have been tested using questionnaires distributed in strategic collaborations between the air defense industries and their strategic suppliers. In order to analyze the data, structural equation modeling with partial least squares approach has been used. Results of data analysis show that, in order to succeed in the operational phase of a collaborative relationship, partners should have a broad and close collaboration around five key actions which include: collaborative planning, integrating key operational processes, effective sharing of information, joint development of resources, joint development of competencies. In general, the model presented in this study can provide a framework for collaborative actions of partnering companies in the operational phase of an alliance in different areas and also be used as an appropriate tool for managers of organizations to examine the status quo of activities in this stage.