Structural Equation Modeling of Strategic alliance in Small and Medium Enterprises

This research was aimed at developing a strategic allaince model for small and medium enterprises in software industry. The research method was exploratory mixed (qualitative and quantitative). In the qualitative section, after analyzing theoretical foundations and developing a conceptual model, Delphi method (a panel of 20 experts) was used for the theoretical confirmation of the model. In field analysis section, data were randomly collected from managers of 350 companies. Library method, Delphi panel and researcher-made questionnaire were used to collecting data. Validity and reliability of Delphi section as well as researcher-made questionnaire were calculated and confirmed. The Delphi panel qualitative analysis’ was done by coding and quantitative analysis was done by statistical analysis, also survey data were analyzed using Confirmed Factor Analysis and Structural Equation Modeling. After three stages of expert opinion poll, the Delphi analysis resulted in the theoretical confirmation of the strategic allaince model with 35 components in the form of five dimensions. In the following, the results of structural equation modeling based on field data showed that in the fitted strategic allaince model, the allainces propulsion has a positive effect on the selection of partners and the selection of partners has a positive effect on the design and implementation of the allaince. Also, the challenges of allaince as a mediator variable have a negative effect on the design and implementation of participation. Ultimately, the implementation and design of participation also have a positive effect on the outcomes of participation.