Final answer:
Yves Doz and Gary Hamel categorize a firm's alliance strategy along two dimensions: strategic intent, organizational complexity, and alliance partner type.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first dimension when categorizing a firm's alliance strategy, according to Yves Doz and Gary Hamel, is Strategic intent. This refers to the overall goal or purpose of the alliance. Examples of strategic intents can include entering new markets, accessing new technologies, or sharing resources.
The second dimension is Organizational complexity. This dimension focuses on the internal structure and coordination required within the organization to manage the alliance effectively. It considers factors such as communication processes, decision-making mechanisms, and governance structures.
The third dimension is Alliance partner type. This dimension looks at the type of partners a firm engages with in their alliances. It can include partnerships with competitors, suppliers, customers, or even non-profit organizations.
The first two dimensions (strategic intent and organizational complexity) primarily address large-scale issues and involve internal aspects of the firm. On the other hand, alliance partner type takes a more holistic view and considers external factors and the relationship with the partnering organizations.