Open innovation - the potential of external collaboration

Introduction

Open innovation - the potential of external collaboration is a central component of modern innovation processes. Companies that want to be successful in the long term need to generate, evaluate and implement ideas in a structured way - this is precisely where open innovation - the potential of external collaboration comes in.

Basics & meaning

Open Innovation - Potentials of external collaboration stands for a systematic approach to idea generation and innovation development. It is about unleashing creative potential, but at the same time acting in a strategically sound manner. User-centricity, prototyping and validation are typical components.

Relevance in the corporate context

Whether for the development of new products, business models or digital services - open innovation - potential of external collaboration is a tried and tested tool for identifying entrepreneurial opportunities at an early stage and developing them in a practical manner.

Typical challenges

• Ideas remain in the drawer
• No clear process structure for innovation projects
• Too strong a focus on the status quo
• Low acceptance by management

Practical example

A German software company used open innovation - the potential of external collaboration - to develop a new SaaS offering. Targeted ideation workshops, user interviews and prototype tests resulted in a marketable product - with over 2,000 users in the first quarter.

Our methodical approach

1. Needs analysis & clarification of objectives with managers
2. Implementation of ideation workshops (e.g. design thinking)
3. Selection and prioritization of relevant ideas
4. Prototyping, testing, iteration
5. Business case development & scaling

Best Practices

Successful innovation projects are characterized by interdisciplinary teams, a high tolerance for failure and the early involvement of real users. Anchoring them in the company's strategy process is also important.

Conclusion

Open innovation - the potential of external collaboration is a valuable lever for turning good ideas into viable innovations. With the right mindset, a clear methodology and consistent implementation, real added value is created - for customers and companies.