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the capacity to learn. Learning is referred to as a process, and knowledge as “that which is
known” (Grant, 1996, p. 110). The following chapter provides explanations of these
concepts in more detail.
1.8 Delimitations of Scope and Key Assumptions
Case study organisations used in this research were one NSO and one PSF located
in New Zealand. There were other potential organisations that also fit these criteria,
however they were excluded because of their inability to attract a critical mass of
participants. For example, both partners were needed to provide a useful case study and if
one organisation was eliminated its partner was too.
The small number of organisations and the contextual nature of the relationship
limit the ability of these findings being extrapolated to other similar relationships.
An assumption is that each participant’s views were consistent with the unit of
analysis - the organisation. It is assumed that the participants were able to reflect on the
organisation as a whole and not just their personal approach to learning.
1.9 Summary
The purpose of this research is to explore the determinants of inter-partner learning
within an alliance. The concepts of intent, transparency and receptivity will guide this
research. The research questions will be investigated by studying an alliance between a
New Zealand based NSO and a PSF that are linked by a common interest in the same sport.
In the literature review to follow, key concepts such as knowledge, knowledge based view,
knowledge transfer, learning patterns in alliance and inter-partner learning will be discussed.
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