ABSTRACT
The concept of alliance optimisation is very closely allied to that of alliance benchmarking. Indeed, one could argue that benchmarking is the essential first step in an alliance optimisation exercise. Optimisation relates to the existence or otherwise of a defined set of common success factors in successful collaborative relationships. Initial research revealed that subjective views are very powerful in strategic alliance relationships. This is illustrated by the phrase perception is reality if someone thinks a Common Success Factors (CSF) is scoring very low. Alliance Optimisation Programme consists of five stages: goal setting and scoping, benchmarking, action planning, resource mapping, 90-day review. Goal setting and scoping is essential to identify the scope of the alliance to be benchmarked before reader do anything else. This initial scoping exercise allows you to identify the key stakeholders who will need to be interviewed to secure the benchmark data.
