Design Thinking using the Blockchain: Enable Traceability of Intellectual Property in Problem-Solving Processes for Open Innovation

Abstract

In this vision paper, we present an approach that makes it possible to protect developed ideas and early concepts even during their systematical development. We take the Design Thinking process as an example, in which interfaces are used for individual stages (understand, observe, define, ideate, prototype, test) to digitally record verbal, written or sketched, and even modeled or constructed outcome. This outcome is recorded and linked to the originating person. To guarantee both proof-of-existence and proof-of-origin, a unique hash is generated from each digital artifact stored and embedded into the Bitcoin Blockchain by the OriginStamp decentralized trusted timestamping service. Once this unique fingerprint is embedded in a transaction in the underlying Blockchain network, it can be proven where particular contributions originated due to the characteristics of Blockchain architecture. By setting up a decentralized tamper-proof means of record keeping, the entire innovation chain from the first ideation to the beginning of production is verifiably stored. By providing a clear proof-of-origin, all innovators (even competitors) could continue to work on existing problem-solving process and add their contribution proportionately, depending on the state of innovation development. This concept enables an Open Innovation ecosystem, which has the potential to increase the innovation potential of companies immensely. Additionally, inventions that are not patentable because they do not comply with the strict regulations of patent law can still be published and protected because the information about the origin of the respective contribution is guaranteed.