WHAT: Understanding Open Innovation Labs

As we embark on the “WHAT” section of our exploration, we delve into defining and understanding Open Innovation Labs (OILs), tracing their historical evolution and encapsulating their contemporary essence. This crucial part of the book is designed to offer a comprehensive view of OILs, beginning with their historical roots in the inventors’ workshops, progressing through the era of traditional R&D laboratories, and culminating in the multifaceted forms of today’s OILs. By examining this evolution, it is possible to understand how OILs have developed over time and their strategic role in modern innovation ecosystems. Various scholarly contributions guide our journey through this section, each adding layers of understanding to the concept of OILs. By retracing the historical progression of innovation spaces, from solitary inventors' workshops to systematic R&D labs and finally to dynamic modern OILs, we trace the transformation of these spaces in tandem with the evolution of business and societal needs. By carefully examining the literature, we propose a working definition of OILs, illuminating their key dimensions, purposes, and roles. This exploration is not just about understanding what OILs are but also about grasping their transformative potential. We delve into the various roles that OILs play, from being hubs of creativity and innovation to acting as catalysts for digital transformation, business model innovation, innovation capacity development, and social change.