How closed and open innovation are defined depends on the organization. Each is a technique that has its purpose and appropriate applicability to business challenges. An organization may prefer a closed innovation model for one initiative to protect its intellectual property, while another initiative may be "crowdsourced," where a large group or community is approached for ideas and solutions. Fewer organizations are subscribing to the "Not Invented Here" mind-set, where innovation is only to be trusted and implemented if it originates within the business unit or core team. In today's competitive environment, senior management and supply management professionals recognize the importance of external partnerships and innovation sharing.
