Developing technological capabilities for Industry 4.0 adoption: An analysis of the role of inbound open innovation in small and medium-sized enterprises
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引用次数: 9
Abstract
To keep up with rapid technological change, firms are pushed to acquire new competencies and resources, often leveraging the external networks in which they are involved. The paper examines how firms' engagement in inbound open innovation (OI) enables the adoption of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) through the deployment of technological capabilities. We combine the OI and dynamic capabilities frameworks to assess how the absorption of knowledge from different actors impacts the necessary technological capabilities for adopting I4.0 technologies. The capabilities are categorized in technological sensing, seizing and reconfiguring. The study is based on in-depth case studies of two selected SMEs from the footwear industry. The cases show that engaging in external collaborations, particularly with universities, pushes SMEs to renew the bundle of competencies underlying their technological capabilities. However, this effect is influenced by the OI modalities adopted by both companies. While in Company A OI takes place through a broader array of formal and informal linkages that contribute to the exploration of distant knowledge bases and the experimentation of more diverse technologies, such as the Internet of Things, Company B relies on informal networking concentrated in its own field of specialization for the adoption of manufacturing-specific I4.0 solutions, such as automated robots and 3D printing.
期刊介绍:
Creativity and Innovation Management bridges the gap between the theory and practice of organizing imagination and innovation. The journal''s central consideration is how to challenge and facilitate creative potential, and how then to embed this into results-oriented innovative business development. The creativity of individuals, coupled with structured and well-managed innovation projects, creates a sound base from which organizations may operate effectively within their inter-organizational and societal environment. Today, successful operations must go hand in hand with the ability to anticipate future opportunities. Therefore, a cultural focus and inspiring leadership are as crucial to an organization''s success as efficient structural arrangements and support facilities. This is reflected in the journal''s contents: -Leadership for creativity and innovation; the behavioural side of innovation management. -Organizational structures and processes to support creativity and innovation; interconnecting creative and innovative processes. -Creativity, motivation, work environment/creative climate and organizational behaviour, creative and innovative entrepreneurship. -Deliberate development of creative and innovative skills including the use of a variety of tools such as TRIZ or CPS. -Creative professions and personalities; creative products; the relationship between creativity and humour; arts and amp; humanities side of creativity.