The idea that agents can increase both their fitnesses by mutual help rather than by competition This assumes that resources adequate for both exist, or are created by the interaction, and relates to synergy
a process where parties with similar interests plan together, negotiate mutual roles and share resources to achieve joint goals but maintain separate identities (Taylor-Powell et al , 1998)
Is marked by a desire for mutual gain or benefit Each party has to contribute something so that both can achieve a positive outcomes linked to shared goals or objectives This is because both parties are dependent on each other One outcome of this is that mutual co-operation between individuals only occurs when a threat is perceived or a huge gain is expected and where confidentiality can be "guaranteed" Thus, there is little day-to-day co-operation because of the risk of individual affairs being exposed
Interaction of two or more parties along the supply chain for the purpose of doing business Compared to collaboration, cooperation typically describes a strictly structured approach to interaction based on regulated standards, whereas integration describes a tighter connection often limited to within a single company