Ecosystems have become central to understanding interorganizational collaboration and performance, particularly in industries characterized by technological complexity and strategic interdependence. This study examines alignment processes and mechanisms within ecosystems, focusing on the defense industries as highly constrained contexts. We question how alignment processes influence ecosystem performance and mitigate the risks of inefficiency and fragmentation? This study aims to bridge a significant gap in understanding alignment processes in highly structured environments. Based on qualitative interviews and processual case studies, we identify critical mechanisms that foster ecosystemic alignment, such as governance structures, trust-building interfaces, and dynamic role adaptations. Key findings reveal that governance models (centralized-fragmented, monopoly-competition) drastically influence alignment processes effectiveness. We also highlight the essential role of “conversational spaces” for managing trust, dependencies, and dynamic adjustments. The research underlines the pivotal role of tailored alignment mechanisms in enhancing ecosystem resilience, offering actionable insights for managing complex inter-organizational systems in high-stakes industries.
