| Abstract |
In the last decades a clear tendency in the behavioral patterns of enterprises has been observed. It involves a shift from the confrontation conflict approach to the cooperation model aimed at achieving common goals. Entities recognize that previously used strategies based on standard management tools, such as price, quality, distribution, product or location are no longer sufficient to create the competitive edge. Entrepreneurs realize that solitary and autonomous action is doomed to fail in the age of globalization, since it limits access to new technologies, financial resources, cheap and skilled labour force, as well as to knowledge and experience. It becomes necessary to search for new, distinctive features, resources, methods and activities that allow for the effective implementation of complex goals. To achieve it, entities must create various types of dynamic and multi-dimensional relations based on cooperation. It should be noted, that those inter-organizational relationships can serve as a source of services and tools, they can contribute to problem solving, winning new markets and deploying new technologies, as well as building a sustainable competitive advantage. On the basis of the above considerations, the analysis and assessment of cooperation strategies of Polish enterprises have been conducted. The study presents the results of the empirical research employing an in-depth survey, direct interview and participatory observation carried out on a sample of 244 Polish enterprises. |