Aims and uses of PROPAT

Success in business alliances and joint ventures through greater self-awareness

Like any other form of human relationship, alliances in business require some degree of ‘self-awareness’. Business owners contemplating the alliance decision must be aware of the personal attributes which are conducive, or even necessary, to successful alliance behaviour and be able to objectively assess whether they possess these attributes. It is hoped that PROPAT will provide business executives and entrepreneurs with a useful framework for making such an objective assessment before seeking and committing themselves to strategic alliances.

Taking PROPAT will help you identify any gaps in your ‘alliance profile’ which could negatively affect the health and success of an alliance, the consequences of which could be very costly to you and your business. Developing your awareness about the attitudes and behaviours that are needed to make business alliances work is a crucial first step toward ensuring the success of an alliance. By asking your current or potential business partner to take PROPAT, and then comparing and discussing the results, you will be even better prepared to sustain a healthy and successful relationship with your business partner.