Social Innovation and Open Innovation - Two Sides of the Same Coin

In this article, Charlotte Peleszezak discusses the topic of crossing open innovation with social innovation, where large companies open up and collaborate to innovate with multiple actors like other companies and startups, public structures, universities or their own employees. Peleszezak explains how large companies are becoming aware of their role in facing growing social and environmental challenges, which are forcing organizations to innovate as a survival condition. Peleszezak also identifies the benefits of societal open innovation for companies, such as adopting a long-term vision, involving employees, opening up to new working methods, and achieving territorial anchorage. Finally, Peleszezak outlines her priority recommendations to increase this phenomenon, such as professionalization, building bridges between departments, and encouraging initiatives from the company’s management.