Filling the gap: knowledge foundations of open innovation

Abstract

In this paper we review the common open innovation challenges and the reasons for their occurrence and arrive at the set of propositions on addressing them through the lens of knowledge. We postulate that the knowledge-based view has been unfairly forgotten at the era of open innovation and that strategic use of knowledge approach can aid in solving open innovation challenges and addressing its shortcomings, both in theory and practice. Drawing on the concept of Information Space, we suggest that certain characteristics of knowledge companies possess and require would determine their level of openness and hence, open innovation strategies.