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Lead User Projects in Practice — Results from an Analysis of an Open Innovation Accelerator

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  • Adele Gutstein

    (#x2020;Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Fürther Str. 246c, 90429 Nürnberg, Germany)

  • Alexander Brem

    (#x2021;Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg, Lange Gasse 20, 90403 Nürnberg, Germany)

Abstract

Earlier research on the lead user method is focused on individual case studies and how the method was applied in a specific context. In this paper, we take a broader approach, analyzing a sample of 24 lead user projects, which included working with 188 lead users. These projects were analyzed regarding their specific processes, resources, challenges, and success factors, using the data of an open innovation intermediary. The key finding is that a refinement and elaboration phase and the integration of designers are crucial success factors which, to date, have not been included in the literature. Moreover, crowdsourcing contests and netnography proved to be of significant value for the need, trend, and lead user identification phases. This paper concludes by discussing theoretical and practical implications, the limitations of this study, and recommendations for future studies.

Suggested Citation

  • Adele Gutstein & Alexander Brem, 2018. "Lead User Projects in Practice — Results from an Analysis of an Open Innovation Accelerator," International Journal of Innovation and Technology Management (IJITM), World Scientific Publishing Co. Pte. Ltd., vol. 15(02), pages 1-17, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:wsi:ijitmx:v:15:y:2018:i:02:n:s0219877018500153
    DOI: 10.1142/S0219877018500153
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Emil Lucian Crișan & Irina Iulia Salanță & Ioana Natalia Beleiu & Ovidiu Niculae Bordean & Raluca Bunduchi, 2021. "A systematic literature review on accelerators," The Journal of Technology Transfer, Springer, vol. 46(1), pages 62-89, February.

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