The development towards an open innovation approach
: what are the main barriers companies face during the transition towards an open innovation company and how can those barriers be overcome with the help of information and communication technologies?

  • Björn Engels (Student)

Student thesis: Master's Thesis

Abstract

Our understanding of open innovation has been significantly improved over the last few years. Nevertheless, a number of important questions remain unanswered. One issue that deserves further attention is how information and communication technologies can support a company in becoming an open innovator. This thesis describes cultural and structural barriers influencing the capacity to integrate external knowledge. Strategic tools and strategies available to overcome those barriers were examined and reviewed with the support of industry experts. The results show that cultural and structural barriers, which have to be addressed in order to integrate external influences, hinder the journey from closed to open innovation. While structural barriers can be overcome with the use of certain information and communication technologies, as well as the seven predefined strategies influencing the absorptive capabilities of an organization, cultural problems can only be remedied when both a strong commitment from management and a behavioral change in the minds of the employees are present. This thesis closes with practical implications provided by experts in the field of open innovation to support organizations that face the change of becoming an open innovation company.
Date of Award29 Sept 2015
Original languageEnglish
Awarding Institution
  • Universidade Católica Portuguesa
SupervisorCláudia Costa (Supervisor)

Designation

  • Mestrado em Gestão e Administração de Empresas

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