Tech Solutions Inc. and Markus Unlimited often compete with one another in the marketplace. A new business area is emerging that appeals to both firms. However, organizations that will successfully compete in the new business area will need to have a robust laboratory capability as well as an established production capacity. Tech Solutions has the former, and Markus Unlimited has the latter. Although unusual for two competitors, they negotiate and create a$($n$)\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_.$ Under the terms of this agreement, the two firms formally and jointly pursue their mutual goals.