Alliance Management

In order to utilise the full potential of collaborations of any of the types discussed above, professional alliance management in all partner organisations has proven to be useful. This involves the assignment of an ‘alliance manager’ to focus on aspects like:

• the strategic and cultural ‘fit’ of the partners during partner selection, relationship and operational management
• full utilisation of learning capabilities, valuing open and clear communication, and enthusiasm and commitment.

Ideally alliance management is involved during the collaboration kick-off phase, to make trust-building easier. Later it is needed to maintain a successful working relationship.