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Early Stages of the Fablab Movement: A New Path for an Open Innovation Model

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  • María-Elena García-Ruiz

    (Business Administration Department, Faculty of Economics, Universidad de Cantabria, 39005 Santander, Spain)

  • Francisco-Javier Lena-Acebo

    (Business Administration Department, Faculty of Economics, Universidad de Cantabria, 39005 Santander, Spain)

  • Rocío Rocha Blanco

    (Business Administration Department, Faculty of Economics, Universidad de Cantabria, 39005 Santander, Spain)

Abstract

FabLabs, also known as digital fabrication laboratories, are a groundbreaking phenomenon that is contributing to the democratization of innovation and technology. Despite their potential influence, this emerging area has received little attention in the literature. This paper examines the initial stages of the FabLab movement using a mixed-sequential exploratory methodology. Qualitative methodologies were employed to identify relevant dimensions and establish research hypotheses, while quantitative methodologies were used to evaluate and validate these hypotheses and generate a predictive model for the innovation process through binary logistic regression. The information obtained through the participation of 124 laboratories in the online FabLab Global Survey was used. The results indicate that collaborations with large companies and a majority focus on research in FabLab projects promote the development of innovative projects compared to those laboratories affiliated with educational institutions or primarily used by students.

Suggested Citation

  • María-Elena García-Ruiz & Francisco-Javier Lena-Acebo & Rocío Rocha Blanco, 2023. "Early Stages of the Fablab Movement: A New Path for an Open Innovation Model," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 15(11), pages 1-16, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:15:y:2023:i:11:p:8907-:d:1161189
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Michael Stacey, 2014. "The FAB LAB Network: A Global Platform for Digital Invention, Education and Entrepreneurship," Innovations: Technology, Governance, Globalization, MIT Press, vol. 9(1-2), pages 221-238, Winter-Sp.
    2. Dosi, Giovanni, 1993. "Technological paradigms and technological trajectories : A suggested interpretation of the determinants and directions of technical change," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 22(2), pages 102-103, April.
    3. Letizia Mortara & Nicolas Parisot, 2018. "How do fab-spaces enable entrepreneurship? Case studies of 'makers' - entrepreneurs," International Journal of Manufacturing Technology and Management, Inderscience Enterprises Ltd, vol. 32(1), pages 16-42.
    4. Mowery, David & Rosenberg, Nathan, 1993. "The influence of market demand upon innovation: A critical review of some recent empirical studies," Research Policy, Elsevier, vol. 22(2), pages 107-108, April.
    5. María-Elena García-Ruiz & Francisco-Javier Lena-Acebo, 2022. "FabLabs: The Road to Distributed and Sustainable Technological Training through Digital Manufacturing," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 14(7), pages 1-32, March.
    6. Sandra Fagbohoun, 2021. "Fablab interne : quels effets sur le contexte organisationnel ? Le cas d’un cabinet de conseil," Innovations, De Boeck Université, vol. 0(3), pages 79-107.
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    1. Guilherme Francisco do Prado & Jovani Taveira de Souza & Cassiano Moro Piekarski, 2025. "Sustainable and Innovative: How Can Open Innovation Enhance Sustainability Practices?," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(2), pages 1-25, January.

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