Wong, Lai Fong Yvonne (2025) A Study of Open Innovation in Small and Medium Enterprises in Hong Kong. Doctoral thesis, University of Wales Trinity Saint David.
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Abstract
The concept of open innovation (OI) has gained significant attention in recent years as a means to accelerate innovation, reduce costs, and enhance competitiveness, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). However, the adoption and implementation of OI practices among SMEs in Hong Kong remain understudied and underdeveloped. This thesis aims to investigate the OI ecosystem of SMEs in Hong Kong by identifying key players and their roles, analysing SMEs’ participation in OI activities, examining the factors that encourage SMEs to engage in OI, and providing recommendations for establishing a support mesh to facilitate their participation. An explanatory sequential design was employed, combining both quantitative and qualitative methods. The quantitative part of the study comprised survey responses from 144 people working separately in 144 SMEs in Hong Kong, while the qualitative part involved 21 interviews with 19 participants. The findings revealed that Hong Kong SMEs have strong relationships with customers and suppliers, indicating the importance of these partnerships in driving innovation. However, there is room for improvement in relationships with large enterprises, government organisations, industry consultants, and other stakeholders. The relationships between SMEs and OI partners are associated with their motives for participating in OI, particularly in technology acquisition, cost reduction, knowledge transfer, and performance improvement (financial and non-financial). The study found that more SMEs participate in inbound rather than outbound OI, and as a consequence, they are naturally less involved in technology spin-off and technology out-licensing but are more inclined to adopt rather than create new technologies. The study uncovered the roles of previously overlooked OI players, such as financial institutions, agencies, and media, thereby enriching the existing literature on OI ecosystems. Incubators/accelerators provide physical spaces, resources, and networking opportunities to support SMEs in scaling up their operations, while facilitators facilitate collaborations between SMEs, industries, and government departments. Financial institutions provide funding support and guidance to evaluate market prospects, manage risks, and promote and package enterprises. The study also identified media’s crucial role in enhancing visibility and awareness, fostering collaboration and networking, advocating for supportive policies, building a sense of community, and disseminating knowledge. Broadening sales and marketing channels and cost reduction are the primary motivations for Hong Kong SMEs to engage in OI. Additionally, technology acquisition, talent acquisition, and improving corporate performance are also significant drivers. The research revealed that gaps in not participating in OI activities in Hong Kong include difficulties in finding suitable partners, accessing talents, and securing capital. To further enhance the OI atmosphere in Hong Kong, efforts should be made to address these obstacles and develop targeted strategies to enhance OI adoption and collaboration among SMEs in the region. The findings of this study not only deepen our understanding of the OI mechanism in the OI ecosystem but also carry practical implications for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and SMEs themselves to devise targeted strategies for enhancing OI adoption among SMEs in Hong Kong.
| Item Type: | Thesis (Doctoral) |
|---|---|
| Subjects: | H Social Sciences > HF Commerce |
| Divisions: | Theses and Dissertations > Doctoral Theses |
| Depositing User: | Victoria Hankinson |
| Date Deposited: | 13 Feb 2025 08:44 |
| Last Modified: | 13 Feb 2025 08:44 |
| URI: | https://repository.uwtsd.ac.uk/id/eprint/3372 |
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