Consider the following scenario: Apple initially partnered with AT&T to provide wireless service exclusively on AT&T's network with the purchase of Apple devices (iPhone, iPad). Reflect on how and why quality management strategies were important to the possible competitive advantages for each partner.

• If AT&T and Apple was to use the partnering model what are the components of the partnering model they would implement?
• Why would AT&T and Apple want to partner in the first place? In other words what are the benefits of partnering?
• What are the stages of development in supplier partnership as seen with AT&T and Apple?
• AT&T and Apple most likely partnered to establish a competitive advantage in the marketplace. A competitive strategy was needed to successfully put this partnership together. What are the components of competitive strategy? And what are the components of strategic management?