Content：Introduction; A Framework for Strategic Alliances; Third-Party Logistics; Retailer-Supplier Partnerships; Distributor Integration; Manufacturer-Supplier Partnerships
Emphasis：Four types of Strategic Alliances: Third-Party Logistics; Retailer-Supplier Partnerships; Distributor Integration; Manufacturer-Supplier Partnerships
Objectives：Help students know four types of Strategic Alliances, and the advantages and the disadvantages of each Strategic Alliance.
Hours：6
Case study：Wal-mart Company, Volvo Company and so on.
Case study：Ford. Watching the Video and discussing the following questions: 1) What types of business partnerships are used by Ford to improve supply chain performance? 2) How does the information technology help Ford to maintain the strategic relationships with its partners?
Homework：Read the papers in relation to this field in various Journals（2000-2013）.
International of Production Economics
Supply Chain Management-An International Journal
International Journal of Operations & Production Management
Computer and Industrial Engineering
