Interorganizational Relationships: Patterns and Motivations

Abstract

June 1977, volume 22 Two competing approaches-exchange and powerdependency-have been used in previous studies to conceptualize interorganizational relationships. The basic premise of this paper is that an integrated view of these relationships is needed that incorporates propositions from both of these approaches. Propositions are developed from these two approaches for explaining variations in the frequency of interaction and the nature of interactions between pairs of organizations in an interorganizational set. Special emphasis is given to the nature of interactions in an asymmetrical relationship. The propositions are tested using data on interactions between community organizations and local offices of the United States Training and Employment Service. The results suggest that interorganizational relationships should be conceptualized as a mixed-motive situation in which each organization behaves in accordance with its own self-interests.