The role of open innovation for sustaining the transition towards Industry 4.0. An empirical analysis

The lack of several resources may hinder SMEs’ capacity to implement a digital transformation. In this paper, we investigate how SMEs can partially solve this problem by adopting an Open Innovation strategic approach. Specifically, we analyse the role of Open Innovation breadth and depth on the implementation of Industry 4.0 technologies. Our results show that both these OI dimensions may positively affect the adoption of these technologies. Besides, we highlight how the effect of OI depth is positively moderated by the technological intensity of the industry where the SME operates. These results can provide theoretical contribution to the literature on digital transformation and on open innovation. Finally, they can support both managers and policy makers in the development of strategies aiming at supporting the transition towards Industry 4.0 by SMEs.