Dynamic Links in the Control of Strategic Alliances in the Energy Sector

Abstract

In this paper, an attempt is made to enhance understanding of interfirm transactional relationships. The assumption is made that the development of an interfirm transactional relationship can only be understood thoroughly by studying the various aspects of such a relationship in mutual dependency. Three realms will be introduced, namely the contractual, the relational and the operational realm. These realms are assumed to be closely interconnected and the connections are assumed to be of a dynamic nature. In order to substantiate this multidimensional viewpoint, a case study will be presented and analyzed using a natural experiment methodology.