Open Entrepreneurial Strategy - Patterns of Co-Creative Technology Entrepreneurship in the Automotive Industry

摘要

Despite a global economy entrepreneurial success in many cases relates to local factors. In fact, the competence of the entrepreneur to exploit its direct surroundings and utilise networks for building new partnerships is pivotal for the future development of the venture. However, as specifically in technology-intensive industries strategic risks is a serious matter, the question raises for a strategic pattern of open value creation of entrepreneurial firms. This research assesses open entrepreneurial strategy via a conceptual approach as well as an empirical study in the automotive industry. Systematically 33 technology entrepreneurs were selected for in-depth interviews which are analysed by qualitative research software (Win Relan). The results indicate that entrepreneurs value networking as means to transform ideas into innovations but primarily take a monolithical approach to value creation. In consequence they apply an on-demand-based perspective of networking to minimize transaction costs and focus on established trusted partnerships. Therefore, locally accessible industry networks and innovation promotors are decisive factors for technology entrepreneurs to effectively engage in open value creation processes.