Leveraging university research within the context of open innovation: The case of Huawei. (March 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Yan, Xu; Huang, Minyi
• Is Part Of: Telecommunications policy. Volume 46:Number 2(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-03
• Subjects: Telecommunication -- Periodicals; Télécommunications -- Périodiques; 384
• DOI: 10.1016/j.telpol.2020.101956
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0308-5961

Abstract

Abstract: The emergence of 5G and the trade dispute between China and the United States have made Huawei a global hot topic. Owning 37% of the patents, Huawei is undoubtedly one of the key players in the development of 5G. For both governmental policy-makers and business decision-makers, an in-depth understanding of this rapidly growing manufacturer is therefore of significant implications to formulate 5G policy and strategies. Given the lack of systematic studies of how Huawei has grown from a local technology follower to a global technology leader in less than three decades, this paper provides a comprehensive review of Huawei's practice in implementing open innovation. Open innovation is perhaps one of the most powerful key factors behind Huawei's rapid development. The findings shed new lights on the use of open innovation governance models and how to source and work with academic partners. The implications of Huawei's case will also be discussed. Highlights: This paper studies Huawei's development in the context of the emergence of 5G and the Sino-US trade dispute. Open innovation, not government support, is the key enabler behind Huawei's rapid development. Huawei's practice shed new lights on how to source and work with academic partners systematically. Finding and working with the most suitable instead of the most popular academic partner is very critical. Companies should focus on learning from the academics for long-term benefits, instead of getting quick results.