Workshop of Photonics (the R&D arm of Altechna) was looking for technology applications and business cases in a situation where, theoretically, many applications were possible. The crucial knowledge needed for commercialization was to access market knowledge – the future needs and challenges of potential clients. The company found a ‘hot’ application – thin tempered glass cutting when they were approached by a Korean integrator company. This partnership eventually failed, but Workshop of Photonics continued the project which led to a licensing / cooperation agreement with an MNC. The case highlights the importance of knowledge which was gained over time and the ability to connect the pieces of knowledge (including ‘exotic’ knowledge which had no commercial use so far) and develop a solution for the market. It also shows that innovation opportunities are path-dependent, i.e. they emerge as a result of past experience.
Open innovation for SME's
