Open Innovation in Small and Medium‐Sized Enterprises (SMEs): External Knowledge Sourcing Strategies and Internal Organizational Facilitators. (29th August 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Brunswicker, Sabine; Vanhaverbeke, Wim
• Is Part Of: Journal of small business management. Volume 53:Number 4(2015:Oct.)
• Page Start: 1241
• Page End: 1263
• Publication Date: 2014-08-29
• Subjects: Small business -- Management -- Periodicals; 658.022
• DOI: 10.1111/jsbm.12120
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0047-2778

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title> <x xml:space="preserve">Abstract</x> </title> <p>In this paper we explore how small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) engage in external knowledge sourcing, a form of inbound open innovation. We draw upon a sample of 1, 411 SMEs and empirically conceptualize a typology of strategic types of external knowledge sourcing, namely minimal, supply‐chain, technology‐oriented, application‐oriented, and full‐scope sourcing. Each strategy reflects the nature of external interactions and is linked to a distinct mixture of four internal practices for managing innovation. Both full‐scope and application‐oriented sourcing offer performance benefits and are associated with a stronger focus on managing innovation. However, they differ in their managerial focus on strategic and operational aspects.</p> </abstract>