Key factors in the start-up phase of collaborative foresight

Interorganizational learning and knowledge sharing among different organizations are gaining in importance - also in foresight activities. In this research, an interorganizational form of foresight - collaborative foresight - is analyzed. The objective of this study was to identify key activities and key factors in the start-up phase of collaborative foresight projects. The insights of three conducted collaborative foresight projects (action research) indicate that the following factors are of particular importance: (1) Creating an open and inspiring learning climate and developing enthusiasm for cross-industry exchange. (2) The participants should recognize as quickly as possible the benefits for themselves and their company. (3) It is crucial to have intermediaries who take on the task and responsibility for integrating and managing the participating companies. Comparing the results with findings of the related fields of open innovation and interorganizational learning we discovered similarities but also several differences, e.g. the role of trust. This study showed that factors such as trust and the fear of losing know-how are not overly concerning, due to the less binding form of collaboration and the company selection (no competitors). Furthermore, we found that common goals are less important and that diversity of partners is an essential factor.