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Managing internal and external crowdsourcing: An investigation of emerging challenges in the context of a less experienced firm

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  • Ruiz, Émilie
  • Beretta, Michela

Abstract

It is increasingly common for firms to gather ideas and solutions through the use of crowdsourcing. However, limited focus is placed on understanding how firms can manage different crowdsourcing platforms to involve both employees and external crowds in innovation. The tendency of crowdsourcing research to focus on successful cases does not allow unfolding the difficulties that the implementation of these platforms create in less experienced firms. This paper presents an exploratory study of a large firm experimenting with both internal and external crowdsourcing. Based on data collected through interviews and secondary sources, we unveil the challenges experienced by the firm when implementing both platforms. We discuss how the implementation of both platforms impacted the work of R&D employees, as they were required to assume new roles and responsibilities related to crowdsourcing. Finally, we present how the firm attempted to address these issues. Implications for innovation research and practice are discussed.

Suggested Citation

  • Ruiz, Émilie & Beretta, Michela, 2021. "Managing internal and external crowdsourcing: An investigation of emerging challenges in the context of a less experienced firm," Technovation, Elsevier, vol. 106(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:techno:v:106:y:2021:i:c:s0166497221000717
    DOI: 10.1016/j.technovation.2021.102290
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    1. Naeini, Ali Bonyadi & Zamani, Mehdi & Daim, Tugrul U. & Sharma, Mahak & Yalcin, Haydar, 2022. "Conceptual structure and perspectives on “innovation management”: A bibliometric review," Technological Forecasting and Social Change, Elsevier, vol. 185(C).
    2. Ghasemzadeh, Khatereh & Bortoluzzi, Guido & Yordanova, Zornitsa, 2022. "Collaborating with users to innovate: A systematic literature review," Technovation, Elsevier, vol. 116(C).

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