Knowledge aquire about horizontal cooperation and cost-sharing between and risk evaluation for the partners

Important results from the project

The aim project was to investigate when and under what conditions horizontal collaborations are to the benefit of the participating parties and in which areas of society these collaborations have positive effects. One intention was also to investigate what efficiency potential these collaborations can offer. A number of cases of collaborations of a horizontal nature have been mapped. Furthermore, the forms and conditions for a selection of these collaborations, through case studies, have been analyzed in a more detailed way. The goals set for the project have thus mainly been met.

Expected long term effects

Surveys showed that horizontal collaborations in road transport were successful when parties have directed flows whereby better vehicle utilization and environmental benefits were been achieved. Case studies have shown that successful collaborations for transport arrangements were energy-efficient transport modes such as railways are used, have been initiated in arrangements where a few parties are responsible for the basic goods flow. Increased exchange of information between shippers and also carriers is required for the horizontal collaborations to be able to increase.

Approach and implementation

The project was carried out as an exploratory study and began with literature studies and a strategic analysis. Conditions for horizontal collaborations were mapped, after which case studies were performed. This was followed by initiatives on the distribution of costs and risks. A completed workshop together with case studies formed the basis for the analysis work. There were problems in gaining access to any agreements and financial agreements between the parties, which meant that results only reported at an aggregate level. The project ended with the compilation of a final report.