Partnership sourcing: firms without boundaries in the value chain?

Argues that effective partnership souring requires increased movement of information and resources across the boundaries between firms. Adopts the position that company competitiveness depends on value chain effectiveness as a whole — meaning partnership sourcing along the chain. Notes, also, that while many companies use the language of ‘partnership’ or ‘just‐in‐time’, this can amount to little more than shifting the burden from itself to another in the value chain. Uses a figure to highlight the three action steps to partnership sourcing of sustaining progress; building momentum; and getting started. Concludes business needs to take steps to improve value chains if they are to compete properly.