The choice of a collaboration form - a special insight in the case of RD consortia

摘要

The choice of the right collaboration form is of great importance for the viability of a collaboration. In this paper, based on multi-theories, three clusters of potential determinants are listed out for consideration. Those are characteristics related to the `resource pooled within the collaboration', `initial relationship of partners' and `collaborative tasks'. Further hypotheses are formulated, which attempt to reveal the impact of these potential determinants and shed some light on the theory of collaboration management. A survey based on the experience of organizations is further conducted for the analysis. In the end, general hypotheses have been tested with the case of `equity or none' decision. Further, an in-depth view has also been provided considering the choice of R&D consortia. All these are composed as a theoretical basis, which helps to bring sound decision support on the strategy of collaboration.