A Framework for Mitigating Leakage of Competitively Sensitive Knowledge in Start-ups

The current wave of digitalization has important implications for many organizations. In this article, we study how manufacturing companies can apply value co-creation as a comprehensive approach to embrace the potential of digitalization trends. By means of two case examples, we show the potential of better integrating shopfloor workers in the shaping of digital solutions and managerial actions. The improved consideration of cognitive needs and the provision of opportunities for social connection to a community of workers makes them feel more valued, confident, empowered and integrated. This can balance other forms of frustrations and negative emotions, leading to a better perception of the overall relationship experience at the shopfloor

A secure innovation process for start-ups: Minimising knowledge leakage and protecting IP

© 2016 Sam PitruzzelloFailing to profit from innovations as a result of knowledge leakage is a key business risk for high-tech start-ups. Innovation is central to the success of a start-up and their competitive advantage in the market place therefore methods to protect intellectual property (IP) and minimise knowledge leakage is crucial. However, high-tech start-ups have limited resources rendering them more vulnerable to knowledge leakage risks compared to mature enterprises. Unfortunately, research on knowledge leakage and innovation processes falls short of addressing the needs of high-tech start-ups. Since knowledge leakage can occur in a number of ways involving many scenarios, organisations typically employ a variety of IP protection and knowledge leakage mitigation methods to minimise the risks. This minor thesis fills the research gaps on innovation processes and knowledge leakage for start-ups. A literature review was conducted into the bodies of research on knowledge leakage and innovation. Following the literature review, a secure innovation process (SIP) model was developed from the research. SIP includes the concept of the risk window which allows a start-up to identify, assess and manage knowledge leakage risks at various stages in the innovation process