Systematising partner selection processes for R&D business relationships

Abstract

Innovations, opportunity identification, pursuit, exploitation as well as firm development can be addressed by organisations that develop formal relationship with others for the purposes of accessing essential resources, competencies, knowledge and legitimacy. To build a case in this area, we examine partner selection processes for research and development business relationship's success using multiple-case methodology. Drawing on the resource-based view-plus model (made up of the resources-based view of the firm, knowledge base view and trust theory), this study analyses how research and development can be enhanced by the selection of appropriate partners in strategic alliance. The findings provide best practices for managing partnership selection process in research and development knowledge area accentuated by trust, substantial capital, and financial stability as well as resource required for expansion. We introduce the box and scale model and how they can be administered during the partner selection process.