In partnering with other companies, regardless of operating mode, one increases the chance of developing competitors because partners may gain access to critical and core resources, especially knowledge. Thus, companies seek ways to prevent partners’ opportunistic behavior. One way, of course, is through contracts. But control of some knowledge-based resources is more difficult. Melia’s main control is over its codified resources, especially brands and reservations system, which are protected legally and which Melia does not cede to other companies. Melia has developed the recognition and reputation of its brands over decades, so new ones cannot easily overcome the advantage. The codified resources are tied closely as well to Melia’s tacit resources because the value of the brands is dependent on clients’ hotel experience, and both physical resources and human behavior influence their opinions. Competitors can easily copy the former if they have enough money. However, the latter is harder to emulate because learning must take place on a person-to-person basis (tacitly). Such learning in hotel operations is substantial—everything from greeting guests to making beds to assuring the flow of supplies—and affects efficiency and reputation. Over time, the actions become the essence of the company’s culture.