An EPRC study investigating innovation in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) has resulted in some original insights into open innovation and business practice in Scotland. The research, carried out by David Charles and Stephen Miller, was based on interviews with 30 Scottish SMEs in two innovative sectors across Scotland - IT and Renewable Energy.
A summary of results, in the form of a brochure for firms and other interested individuals, is the first of several outputs from this study. It was found that open innovation behaviour is strongly influenced by industry sector and firm size. There are also numerous barriers which limit the degree to which SMEs pursue and take up open innovation practices. This is important in the context of Scotland's national innovative performance, as the enterprise agencies recognise the value of open innovation as a means of gaining competitive advantage.
The results brochure was designed with participating firms as the main recipients, so it has a focus on practical, actionable information. It can be downloaded here.