Managing open innovation projects: an evidence-based framework for SMEs and large companies cooperation

Pier Luigi Giardino, Matteo Cristofaro and Cristina Marullo

Management Research Review, 2022, vol. 46, issue 8, 1163-1183

Abstract: Purpose - How can joint open innovation (OI) projects between small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and large companies (LCs) be effectively managed? This study aims to try to answer this research question with a focus on the critical success factors (CSFs) of such cooperation. Design/methodology/approach - Based on 40 semi-structured interviews with Italian SMEs and LCs engaged in various industries, 20 open OI projects involving SMEs and LCs are investigated using a reflexive thematic analysis, a methodology involving both deductive and inductive approaches. Findings - Fifteen CSFs grouped into seven categories emerge from the analysis of joint OI projects between SMEs and LCs. Among them, shared leadership, dynamic decision-making and priority setting emerge as essential elements at the basis of the proposed SMEs–LCs cooperation in joint OI projects that were not sufficiently addressed by prior studies. Originality/value - To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to provide an evidence-based framework for managing joint OI projects between SMEs and LCs. Relatedly, this study links the practices and most recurring CSFs that facilitate such cooperation.

Keywords: Decision-making; Open innovation; Critical success factors; Small and medium-sized enterprises; Strategic flexibility; Large companies; Knowledge and innovation management; Project management (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eme:mrrpps:mrr-02-2022-0117

DOI: 10.1108/MRR-02-2022-0117

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