Emerging capabilities of open innovation in networks Astrid Heidemann Lassen1*, Alexia Jacobsen1, Søren Bolvig Poulsen3 and Søren Wandahl2
1Center for Industrial Production, Aalborg University, Fibigerstræde 16, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark 2Department of Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, Aalborg University, Fibigerstræde 16, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark 3Department of Communication, Aalborg University, Kroghstræde 1, 9220 Aalborg, Denmark
ABSTRACT The paper addresses the question of how OI readiness should be measured when commencing engagement in user-driven innovation in a value chain perspective, and how this leads to potential for developing OI capabilities. A framework for assessment of level of OI capabilities is developed based on extensive literature review. The framework is further tested in the context of the InnoDoor project, providing significant insights into the challenges faced by the individual partners as well as the network in general. The test illustrates the usability of the framework for assessment of OI readiness, and how it allows for design and implementation of specific experiments targeting the OI capability development of the network.
Keywords: Open Innovation, supply chain, readiness, value network
1.
INTRODUCTION
Having an effective new product development process is one of the greatest competitive advantages a firm can possess, and much research suggests that having the customer closely involved in such processes can greatly increase the success rate of new product/processes (Cooper, 1996; Methe et al., 1997). Focusing on involving and integrating users in development and innovation activities is of even greater importance during times of economic difficulties. With increasing numbers of competitors on the market, coupled with increasing consumer demands, involving users in the innovation process may become critical rather than a mere choice or interest. Based on such realization, during recent years the topic of Open Innovation (OI) has received considerable attention both theoretically and empirically (Von Hippel, 1988; Chesbrough, 2003; Baldwin et al. 2006). Yet, in spite of the rising interest in OI, many firms still do not effectively bring the user or external partners into their new product development process (Adam et al., 1998). This could partly be due to the widespread belief that the ideas and opinions of typical or average customers cannot result in innovative new concepts - or if may be caused by the fact that many firms simply do not have the mechanism, traditions, culture or structures in place to integrate the customer into their development processes; they are not ready for engaging in Open Innovation. As argued by e.g. Schein (1999) and Jones, Jimmieson and Griffith (2005), readiness for engaging in change and innovation is the single most important aspect of creating a successful implementation of the new initiative. Very little knowledge exists on how to evaluate or develop readiness for engaging in OI in companies largerly inexperienced