The Support of Virtual Networks

Although the literature on strategic alliances defines the role of information technologies (IT) as important, any reasoned explanation of it is still anecdotic. This study focuses on a particular type of technological relationship between firms and institutions for developing environmental management innovations through virtual cooperation. It goes into particular depth on the economic and strategic reasons explaining the formation of alliances based on IT. The development of environmental adaptation strategies can be effectively supported with public initiatives for providing advanced, knowledge-intensive services through the creation of technological extension infrastructures. The market’s failure to provide useful public goods for improving environmental development may be IDEA GROUP PUBLISHING This paper appears in the publication, Utilizing Information Technology in Developing Strategic Alliances Among Organizations edited by Salustiano Martinez-Fiero, Jose-Aurelio Medina-Garrido, Jose Ruiz-Navarro© 2006, Idea Group Inc. 701 E. Chocolate Avenue, Suite 200, Hershey PA 17033-1240, USA Tel: 717/533-8845; Fax 717/533-8661; URL-http://www.idea-group.com ITB12994 Strategic Alliances for Environmental Adaptation 243 Copyright © 2006, Idea Group Inc. Copying or distributing in print or electronic forms without written permission of Idea Group Inc. is prohibited. corrected effectively using virtual inter-organizational networks facilitating collective learning. This study presents an example of a regional initiative for a cooperative platform based on IT that can result in the assimilation of technological and organizational competences in environmental management by firms located in the area.