Open Innovation: A Research Agenda

Abstract

Abstract Chandler (1977, 1990) recounts how the key technologies of the early and the mid-twentieth century were developed by industrial research departments within the large diversified enterprises of US and Europe. Such diversification, along with vertical integration from research and development (R&D) through distribution, provided these firms with competitive advantage over smaller and newer rivals through economies of scale and scope. Among these leading firms, Chesbrough (2003a) argues that the strategy brought with it a certain mindset: It is a view that says successful innovation requires control This paradigm counsels firms to be strongly self-reliant, because one cannot be sure of the quality, availability, and capability of others ‘ ideas: ‘If you want something done right, you ‘ve got to do it yourself ‘. (Chesbrough 2003a: xx)