These situations may be grouped into three
categories: (a) the interaction potential between the
buyer and the supplier; (b) the singularity of the
demand; and (c) the risks related to the buying process
(Fenneteau, 1990). With respect to the interaction
potential, there are many situations where partnership
may be viewed as an interesting relationship strategy.
The first one occurs when both the client and the
supplier must work together to design the product that
is the object of the transaction. A second situation
occurs when a tight and complex synchronization must
be established between the client and the supplier.
Third, if it is necessary to establish a long-term agreement,
partnership will be an appropriate avenue. These
first three situations are related to operational aspects
of the interactions between the client and the supplier.
There also exist cost-related considerations, such as
high negotiation costs and delay, and high substitution
costs of suppliers.