Top 5 Companies for Open Innovation – May 2013

Here you get my current top 5 list of strong open innovation initiatives and efforts. Your comments and suggestions for other companies are appreciated!

1. Google Glass – for taking an open approach for a disruptive offering

I take it as a clear sign of the changing game of innovation that Google early on recognized that they needed to be open on their efforts with the Glass. Now, they are building an ecosystem that can help develop the apps that will make people buy and use the Glass. Read more in this blog post: Google Glass versus Apple: Different Takes on Open Innovation

2. Microsoft and their Kinect Accelerator program – better late than never

As you will notice, a key element in my suggestions for the best open innovation companies right now is a strong focus towards start-ups.

The Microsoft Kinect Accelerator program is a nice example of how companies can organize this. It is also worth noticing how Microsoft is changing their course having in mind that they tried to keep the Kinect closed for others (especially hackers), when it first launched. Things are definitely changing.

3. Shell – now even their CEO talks about open innovation and business models

I have mentioned Shell before in my blog because of their GameChanger program and recently, I also took notice of their CEO and his perspectives on (open) innovation. Good things coming from a conservative industry! You can check these posts on Shell on 15inno.com.

4. Telefonica / Wayra – another focused approach towards start-ups

Back to the start-ups! The digital world has begun to embrace open innovation and Telefonica is leading the pack with Wayra, which is a platform in which they can interact with startup and co-create new business opportunties.

5. The last spot is up for grabs…

As usual, I keep this spot up for grabs. Who would you add to this list?