I think there is different levels and types of micro alliances. One is the start from scratch work your way up (no merges) build a strong solid structure slow and steady,stay out of sight out of mind as you grow.Make limited OWF post or topics and just buddy up with the alliances that are the closest to you.
The other is the coming together of different alliances creating a new larger alliance from the get go .. Which should be very active on OWF and draw attention to them selves because that will bring in even more members. Both are micros ,some longer then others and who knows what is the better way.