Although the relationship and dialogue at the top management level is strained, mid-level managers at both companies do talk and are eager to explore and imple-ment a new vendor managed inventory (VMI) system that builds a partnership of strong interdependence and equity. Instead of sending purchase orders, VMI involves sharing daily electronic information about AUD’s sales, so invent-tory is replaced automatically by Tech-nologia. Mid-level managers Larry Stansell (AUD) and Victoria Santos (Tech-nlolgia) regularly correspond and meet to find potential areas for close cooperation, information sharing, and problem feedback.