Astrategic alliance: group of answer choices a) involves two or more companies joining forces to pursue vertical integration. b) is an agreement between two or more companies in which there is strategically relevant collaboration of some sort, joint contribution of resources, shared risk, shared control, and mutual dependence. c) is a partnership between two companies that is typically intended to eliminate the need to engage in outsourcing. d) is usually a cheaper and more effective way for companies to join forces than is merger.