Impediments and Hurdles for Excelling the Human Element in Open Innovation and the Organizational Readiness and Barriers

This chapter describes cultural and structural barriers influencing the capacity to integrate external knowledge. Tools and strategies available to overcome those barriers are examined and reviewed with the support of industry experts. This chapter contributes to the existing literature by providing insights on how information and communication technologies (ICT) can support a company into becoming an open innovator. The research outcomes show that cultural and structural barriers hinder the journey from a closed to an open innovation (OI) paradigm. This respective research argues that structural barriers can be overcome with the use of certain ICTs, as well as seven predefined strategies influencing the absorptive capabilities of an organization. Cultural problems, on the other hand, can be remedied when both a strong managerial commitment and a behavioural change in the minds of the employees co-exist. Last but not least, this chapter discusses practical implications based on different perceptions by OI experts in terms of adopting new ways to support organizations on embracing OI practices, establishing a truly open corporate environment.