Alliance Advantage - Exploring the Value Creation Potential of Collaborations

Abstract

Alliances within innovation ecosystems are essential for developing new business models that address the increasing complexity of technologies and systems, as well as the intensifying global competition. Organizations are compelled to prioritize selected partnerships for value creation. We will emphasize the role of alliances and collaborations in driving innovation within these ecosystems.

Objective

Learning outcomes professional competence The students - learn and understand the management basics of inter-firm collaboration and organizational networks (strategy considerations incl. collaborative business models; cultural aspects including both corporate culture and international aspects, risk management, communication, etc.) - realize the value creation potentials of alliances (added value) - understand underlying theoretical models (mainly from the institutional economics, focusing on transaction cost and principal agent theory) - identify and understand specific forms of collaboration (strategic alliances, joint ventures, Networks, etc.) - apply tools hands on in real companies (planned in collaboration with companies) Learning outcomes methodological competence - Writing academic papers - Developing structured documentation of interviews (in form of a presentation) - Transferring theory directly into practical application - Contributing to the learning journey Learning outcomes social competence - Improving communication skills as basics for collaboration - Developing and applying team work skills - Work together with industrial partners - Coping with conflicts resolution in teams

Content

The ever-increasing complexity of technologies and systems, coupled with heightened competitive pressure and the need to shorten time-to-market, drives organizations to concentrate on their core competencies. Collaborating with external partners presents a crucial value creation opportunity, significantly impacting daily management activities. This lecture aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the unique management requirements for successful cooperation. Content: - Introduction to the theory and management of inter-firm collaboration and networks. - Examination of the formation, management, and evolution of collaborations and networks. - Exemplary collaborations in marketing, development, and manufacturing. - Special forms of collaborations: innovation ecosystems, strategic alliances, joint ventures and mergers & acquisitions. Learning Journey: - Seminar Day 1: Introductory day providing an overview of the theoretical framework, explaining the course concept, case studies and intro to the first assignment. - First Assignment (weeks 2-5): focusing on key aspects of the framework: Networked Business Strategies; Culture and People Orientation; Leadership, Interaction and Communication; Resilience, Risk and Trust; Agile Structures and Processes; Collaborative Skills Development. This assignment will build the foundational knowledge necessary for the second part of the seminar. - Seminar Day 2: Presentation of the first assignment results, supplemented with additional input using a case study, preparation for the second assignment. - Second Assignment (weeks 6-11): Analysis of real alliance projects within partner companies, i.e. preparing and conduction an interview, summarizing the interview into a presentation. - Seminar Day 3: Final Presentations, best practice exchange, lessons learned session concluding the course. This structured approach ensures a thorough understanding of inter-firm collaboration management, equipping participants with the necessary skills to navigate and leverage these partnerships effectively.

Resources