Which strategy would a firm use if it sought to operate independently from other organizations?

The correct choice is the independent strategy, as it specifically describes a firm's approach to operating without relying on or collaborating with other organizations. When a company adopts an independent strategy, it aims to control its own operations, resources, and decision-making processes without forming alliances or partnerships that might bind it to the interests or practices of other entities.

This approach often appeals to firms that want to maintain full autonomy over their processes, products, and market positioning, allowing them to respond to market changes and opportunities at their own pace without external influence. In contrast, cooperative, dependent, and collaborative strategies involve forming ties with other organizations, whether through partnerships, alliances, or shared objectives, which is the opposite of operating independently.