Bibliometric analysis of the international literature on open innovation and absorptive capacity

Abstract

Purpose: To assess if it exists the close relationship suggested by some authors between open innovation and absorptive capacity.

Design/methodology/approach: Bibliometric analysis on the Web of Science about the international literature where both terms are treated simultaneously.

Findings: It has been shown that it is a field of growing interest and that there is a close relationship between open innovation and absorptive capacity.

Research limitations/implications: The bias due to the database selected and the selection criteria applied (they could affect the no selection of some significant articles).

Practical implications: To know that the absorption capacity is related to open innovation can help organizations become more innovative enhancing this capability.

Originality/value: The approach used is a novelty and the conclusions can better understand the relationship between both terms (open innovation and absorption capacity). Thus, it can help increase innovation.