A definition of the extended enterprise:

The notion of « enterprise » was traditionally limited by its assets, but today, it is possible to have a vertically-integrated value chain made of independent companies.

Thus, the enterprise doesn't rely only on capital assets but also on economic and social common values and objectives. Brand, craft, territory… can be, among many others, factors of cohesion and integration.

The existence of a unique strategic prime order guarantees the consistency of the chain: it is the role of the “leading enterprise”.