Joint-ventures as strategic choice--a literature review

The concept of 'strategic options' has become firmly established in recent years--this regards choices such as 'organic growth', acquisition, merger, and so on. This paper explores one such route forward, the option of joint-ventures. The examination is undertaken within a framework that considers market structures and the pressures for change. Initial sections introduce a form of analysis based upon the work of Michael Porter. This is used to suggest how and why joint-ventures and other alliances are attractive. Later discussion considers some of the practical considerations when setting-up a joint-venture.