65. (Value chain) Strategic alliances are important parts of the value chain. In many organizations, suppliers are beginning to provide more and more input into customer activities.

a. In the United States, when would a strategic alliance be considered illegal?

b. What would you perceive to be the primary reasons for pursuing a strategic alliance?

c. You are the manager of a catalog company that sells flowers and plants.

With whom would you want to establish strategic alliances? What issues might you want to specify prior to engaging in the alliance?