Knowledge-driven preferences in informal inbound open innovation modes. An explorative view on small to medium enterprises

Abstract

Purpose-Through the lens of the open innovation model and knowledge-based view (KBV), the present research seeks to investigate three key factors (i.e. cognitive dimensions, the knowledgedriven approach and absorptive capacity) that are likely to determine the preference for informal inbound OI modes. The innovation literature has differentiated these collaborations into informal inbound open innovation (OI) entry modes and formal inbound OI modes, offering an advocative and conceptual view. However, empirical studies on these collaborations are still limited. Design/methodology/approach-Building on the above theoretical framework, the empirical research was performed in two stages. First, data were collected via a closed-ended questionnaire distributed to all the participants from the sample by e-mail. Secondly, to assess the hypotheses structural equation modelling (SEM) via IBM® SPSS® Amos 20 was applied. Findings-The empirical research was conducted on 175 small to medium enterprises in the United Kingdom, suggesting that the knowledge-driven approach is the strongest determinant leading to a preference for informal inbound OI modes. The findings were obtained using structural equation modelling (SEM) and are discussed in line with the theoretical framework. Research limitations/implications-Due to the chosen context and sector of the empirical analysis, the research results may lack generalisability. Hence, new studies are proposed. Practical implications-The paper includes implications for the development of informal inbound open innovation led by knowledge-driven approach. Originality/value-This paper offers an empirical research to investigate knowledge-driven preferences in informal inbound open innovation modes.

Open Innovation and CSR, Determinants in Logistics and Performance in Commercial SMES

“…Studies have generally related to open innovation as a dynamic capacity of business knowledge that contributes to organizational growth and development, mainly in improving profitability and productivity (Del Vecchio, Secundo, Rubino, Garzoni, & Vrontis, 2019;Ferraris, Giachino, Ciampi, & Couturier, 2019;Saunila, 2019). In addition, the incursion of the interaction that has open innovation with corporate social responsibility has recently increased as a key factor for organizational learning systems which lead to maturity in the logistic and productive processes that are related to sustainability (McCormick & Kautto, 2013b;Scuotto, Del Giudice, Bresciani, & Meissner, 2017;Vitolla, Rubino, & Garzoni, 2016. Although these two business strategies have been key elements to increase competitiveness in companies preferably located geographically in areas with high economic potential and social development (Teece, 2016;West et al, 2014), in the Latin American region there are few regions where they have been considered as engines key to development and economic growth, however, countries such as Brazil, Chile and Mexico have been incorporating initiatives in their public policies so that companies incorporate and strengthen their innovation practices and business sustainability actions (GID, 2018;Maldonado-Guzmá n, Garza-Reyes, Pinzón-Castro, & Kumar, 2017;OECD, 2017;Valdez-Juá rez, Solano-Rodrí guez, & Philippe-Martin, 2018).…”

Open innovation in (young) SMEs

“…Preliminary to cognitive dimensions and absorptive capacity, Scuotto et al (2017) identified the knowledge-driven approach as most influential in resulting in a preference for informal inbound OI in SMEs. Moreover, Popa et al (2017) show that the existence of a good innovation climate, which is significantly supported by commitment-based human resource, practices positively contributes to inbound as well as outbound OI in SMEs.…”

The influence of open innovation practices on business performance in Mexican family and non-family SMEs

“…Specifically, a distinction can be made between the two directions of outbound and inbound open innovation (Lichtenthaler & Ernst, 2006;Spithoven et al, 2010;Mazzola et al, 2012;Michelino et al, 2014;Scuotto et al, 2017). The former explains the external sharing of technology in open function methods, involving the transfer of knowledge to the external environment (Lichtenthaler, 2009).…”