A personal note worth sharing on the definition of Strategic Alliances from Bob Harmon and Steve DeWaters.
Forward by Robert L. Harmon:
The Concept by: Steve DeWaters:
Greetings,
Below please find a written description of Strategic Alliance/Partnering put together by Steve DeWaters. Steve has been a client, candidate and personal friend of mind for many years. He is Principal Consultant for Penumbra Group, Inc. He is one of the best marketing professionals I have ever met and in my opinion wrote the book on Strategic Alliance.
Robert L. Harmon CPC
R L Harmon Group, LLC
603-224-1050
Hi Bob:
I think the best way to look at the concept of ‘Strategic Alliance’ is to reference some previous definitions already in use…..
These simple descriptors are ubiquitous in business today and multiple variations of these become ‘personalized’ to the distinct cultures of the businesses and people involved with any given alliance. Confusion (as I see it) lies in the use of the word ‘strategic’. That word, while sounding important, is vastly simplified, over-used and most certainly ill-used in daily contexts. ‘Strategy’ is not a one-off concept. It is a dynamic, ongoing, and evergreen practice that requires research, planning, assessments, gap analyses, and prescriptions for tactical courses of action. Business managers typically confuse ‘strategy’ with ‘tactics’ and interchange these often. Capt. Richard Marcinko, aka ‘Demo Dickie’, the ‘Rogue Warrior’ and former commander of Navy Seal Team Six, has a saying that I like which cuts through the confusion with zero chance for misinterpretation…he says: “Don’t confuse planning with training, or talking with kicking ass”. Too many in business today use Strategy as an excuse for real action.
For the purpose at hand, and to emphasize the term ‘Alliance’, I will have you reference the definitions of ‘collaboration’….a more accurate term that should give you room to maneuver without misunderstanding the intent:
‘Collaboration’ provides the definition, the spirit, and the intention of what I believe you are trying to accomplish with the resources that you have surrounded yourself with. It is like the old adage: ‘Two heads (or more) are better than one alone’. Failing the importance of collaboration, another adage (an old Yiddish saying) becomes true: ‘The crowd is a fool’.
‘Hope this helps.
Steve DeWaters
Penumbra Group, Inc.
949.388.6764 (O)