Subject and purpose of work: The subject matter of this paper includes selected examples of tools applied in systems analysis and strategic analysis in relation to the influence of their results on the forms of cooperation between business entities. The study is aimed at provoking a deeper thought on the outcomes of the lack of a system-based approach on the effects of cooperation, and consequently at reducing the negative experience arising from the lack of understanding of the conditions affecting the expected results. Materials and methods: This publication is an overview of the issue based on the interpretation and synthesis of the available literature on the subject. Results: The author suggests that the specific conditions, starting from the impact of the broad geopolitical surroundings, the current government policy, legal regulations, culture circles, market development stage or a partner’s place in the production chain, through customs, procedures, processes, intra-organisational standards, affect not only the culture of the organisation itself, but also its reputation and financial result. Conclusions: The influence of the new “virtual” sphere of economic contacts, as a vital element of strategic analysis, was stressed.