Managerial Perspective on Open Source Collaboration and Networked Innovation

Authors

  • Henttonen Maaret Katja VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland
  • Pasi Pussinen VTT Technical Research Center of Finland
  • Timo Koivumäki VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland & University of Oulu

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4067/S0718-27242012000300012

Keywords:

open source, free software, external innovation, open innovation, technology management, digital commons

Abstract

This study explores the managerial perspectives towards open source software and networked innovation. We analysed six software companies who use open source software as a significant part of their product or service offering. The study found notable differences in managerial attitudes, expected benefits and key challenges related to open source software and its role in innovative activities. While all companies were using same pieces of software with open source communities, there were different levels of engagement in the development of the software and information flows between companies and communities. A deeper level of involvement enables the exchange of more than just the code: like ideas, influences, opinions and even innovations or parts of them. The differences in managerial views on open source and networked innovation may be explained by industry domains, value chain position and leadership style

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Author Biographies

Henttonen Maaret Katja, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland

Katja Henttonen is a Specialist at Digital Services Research within VTT Technical Research Center of Finland. Her research interests are related to the delicate art of 'openness' in inter-organizational collaborations.

Pasi Pussinen, VTT Technical Research Center of Finland

Pasi Pussinen is a Research Scientist in Value-Driven Service Business Team at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland. His research interests include open source software, business models and service dominant logic.

Timo Koivumäki, VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland & University of Oulu

Timo Koivumäki is a Research Professor of Mobile Business Applications at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland and at University of Oulu. His research interests include consumer behavior in e-commerce, m-commerce and ubi environments, user-driven innovation, e-business, m-business, mobile marketing, digital economy and information goods.

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Published

2012-09-21

How to Cite

Katja, H. M., Pussinen, P., & Koivumäki, T. (2012). Managerial Perspective on Open Source Collaboration and Networked Innovation. Journal of Technology Management & Innovation, 7(3), 135–147. https://doi.org/10.4067/S0718-27242012000300012

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Section

Research Articles