SUCCESS FACTORS IN RESEARCH COLLABORATION: LESSONS FROM THE SUGAR YIELD DECLINE JOINT VENTURE

DESPITE the increasing popularity of research alliances, many of them fail. An array of reasons for failure have been previously identified; they include goal divergence, opportunistic rather than cooperative behaviour, cultural differences, lack of commitment, lack of resources and lack of appropriate governance and control. This paper considers four enabling conditions of trust, form (structure and governance), culture and intent, which are known to influence interactions and knowledge sharing across partners, and contribute to success of research alliances. A case study of a successful research alliance (the Sugar Yield Decline Joint Venture) confirmed the importance of the four conditions. These conditions are interrelated and influence the way partners share knowledge and manage conflict. The quality and ability of the alliance leader is a key factor in initiating and maintaining high-performing teams and hence in delivery of valuable outcomes. Recommendations for establishment and running of research alliances are provided.