Seeker Exemplars and Quantitative Ideation Outcomes in Crowdsourcing Contests

Crowdsourcing ideation contests allow solution-seeking firms (seekers) to solicit ideas from external individuals (solvers). Contest platforms often recommend seekers provide examples of solutions (i.e., seeker exemplars) guide and inspire solvers in generating ideas. In this study, we delve into solvers’ process examine how different configurations exemplars affect the quantitative outcomes scanning, shortlisting, selection Results an online experiment show that generally search for, shortlist, and/or submit fewer when shown certain exemplars. addition, who tend lower-quality ideas, on average. Thus, a key insight study is showing exemplars, which contest encourage do, could negatively thereby impair idea quality. To help mitigate these adverse outcomes, propose few areas should be mindful. We also suggest ways contests’ can contribute generation undertake.