This paper investigates the possibility to export the free-libre open source model that has proved successful in the case of software in other sectors. We propose a general definition of open source innovation that relies on two pillars: Openness and interactivity. First, the produced knowledge must remain open, i.e. it must be made available to all without discrimination.  read more »

This paper analyzes the MNC subsidiaries' trade-off between the need for knowledge creation and the need for knowledge protection, and relates it to the extent of knowledge outflows generated within the host location.  read more »

Universities' involvement in the use of formal intellectual property rights (IPR) such as patents and registered copyright has increased steadily in the last two decades.  read more »

This paper explores how firms exploit the patent marketplace to organise their strategic value creation using different patent governance forms. The focus is on how firms use the patent marketplace (through buying, selling, licensing, cross-licensing or pooling) to realise specific forms of strategic value (related to financial and non-financial strategic aims).  read more »

This article debates the policy measures designed to curb P2P file-sharing on the Internet. In doing this, the article challenges the Digital Economy Act which was passed through the UK Parliament April 8, and entered into force June 12, 2010.

The empirical literature investigating the issue of the heterogeneity across firms has proposed the concept of innovation modes. This aims at grouping firms depending on a number of innovation characteristics. The role of design as a source of innovation has been largely disregarded.  read more »

A central factor which characterizes design-related innovative activities is that a major source of knowledge – that is designers – is very often located outside the firm. This raises a central management issue for the firm and unavoidably generates a tension between designer consultants and the firm which I name the essential tension.  read more »

Building upon an original survey of universities in the United Kingdom, this paper brings an original perspective to the debate on the motivations and effectiveness of academic patenting, and on the exchange of intellectual property (IP) using different protection mechanisms.  read more »

By exploring the patterns of engagement in several intellectual property (IP) marketplaces on the part of a sample of software firms based in the UK, the article attempts to shed light on the strategic reasons which induce firms to participate in different IP marketplaces and governance structures, often at the same time.  read more »

By exploring the patterns of engagement in several intellectual property (IP) marketplaces on the part of a sample of pharmaceutical firms based in Germany, the article attempts to shed light on the strategic reasons which induce firms to participate in different IP marketplaces and governance structures, often at the same time.  read more »