A reflection on openness in collaborative product development

This paper presents an in-depth case study from a development project in the bank sector. The findings have implications for companies that consider openness in their innovation activities. A large company that wishes to involve suppliers, partners, customers and end-users need to be prepared organizationally, with e.g., motivated individuals, and allocated budgets. This applies regardless company size, but, the study indicates that a smaller firm can more easily involve end-users, and can take advantage of its (built-in) proximity and flexibility towards customers. By knowing more and by planning for openness in a product development project, the expectations of involved parties can more easily be met. The indepth case study illustrates that openness in innovation takes time, and requires efforts, and should not be undertaken unless the company is well prepared for it.