Abstract

Purpose – The paper analyzes the patterns of research of “innovation knowledge” (i.e. knowledge that can result in introducing innovations in the company that can be observed in KIBS (Knowledge-Intensive Business Services) companies. Particularly, it identifies and classifies the possible approaches adopted by companies on the basis of two dimensions: the intensity/proactivity of search efforts, and the source primarily used. Design/methodology/approach – The paper examines the approaches adopted by 15 Italian and Polish KIBS companies. It employs a multiple case-study method, which is justified due to the descriptive and exploratory nature of the research, and the complexity of the phenomenon under investigation. Primary data were collected through semi-structured interviews to entrepreneurs and executives of the investigated firms. KIBS companies were chosen as object of study because they are often highly innovative and, in turn, they contribute to their clients’ innovative capability as well. Originality/value – The paper provides a better understanding of ways and sources of knowledge for innovation in KIBS. It has already been acknowledged that KIBS rely on various sources of knowledge for innovation, but not much is known about the approaches they adopt. The cases confirm that hardly ever KIBS use only one source of knowledge for innovation. Customers are often uses as a key source of knowledge, but employees are also expected to provide innovative ideas. Therefore, KIBS companies can follow various models to acquire knowledge for innovation. In particular, some companies can have a passive approach (i.e. innovative ideas come as a kind of side-effect of their daily business), while others have an active approach (namely, they actively search for new ideas originating from various sources). In addition, some rely more on internal resources (i.e. their employees, internal departments, etc.), while others on external sources (clients, suppliers, service providers, universities, etc.). It is possible to combine these dimensions and to obtain four combinations, as is described in the paper. Practical implications – The outcomes of the study are important for both research and practice. As regards research, it contributes to the discussion regarding knowledge sources of innovation and the processes of their exploitation in KIBS firms.

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