A mapping for managers: open innovation for R&D intensive SMEs in the life sciences sector

Stefanos Marangos and Lorraine Warren

European Journal of Innovation Management, 2017, vol. 20, issue 2, 210-229

Abstract: Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to examine what strategies the CEOs of research and development (R&D) intensive small/medium enterprises (SMEs) in the life sciences sector carry out in regard to open innovation (OI), as R&D costs continue to rise, placing pressure on innovation managers. Design/methodology/approach - A qualitative study was carried out, consisting of 30 semi-structured interviews with CEOs of small R&D intensive SMEs in the life sciences sector. The authors analysed the key factors identified by the CEOs in relation to their OI strategies. Findings - SMEs adopt a range of OI strategies and collaborations, subject to certain conditions. A multilevel mapping developed from the analysis connects actors to the wider domain, setting the outcomes of the research in context. Research limitations/implications - This qualitative study provides detailed understandings that could provide the basis for a wider quantitative study that would provide greater coverage of the sector, thus reinforcing the outcomes. Practical implications - The study will be relevant to practising CEOs who are considering the range of options offered by OI. Originality/value - While large firms are adopting OI strategies, less is known about the OI strategies developed in SMEs. The study addresses that gap. The life sciences context is also novel.

Keywords: SME; CEOs; Strategies; Open innovation; Life sciences; R&D intensive (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2017
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eme:ejimpp:ejim-12-2015-0133

DOI: 10.1108/EJIM-12-2015-0133

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