1. Describe the basic concept behind strategic alliances. In what ways can strategic alliances facilitate a firm's quest for quality (Hint: Focus on Customers and Suppliers)? Length: 500
2. What is a benchmark firm? Why is it good practice for a benchmark firm to open its doors and allow others to view its operations and tour its facilities? Length: 200 words
3. What are the pros and cons of becoming a benchmark firm? If you were the manager of a highly successful company, would you want other companies bench-marking against your firm? Why or why not? Length:200 words
4. Discuss the advantages of concurrent engineering. Length: 400 words.