The frequency of end-user innovation: A re-estimation of extant findings

Nikolaus Franke, Florian Schirg, Kathrin Reinsberger

Publication: Scientific journalJournal articlepeer-review

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Abstract

Recent studies have found that large numbers of consumers innovate. In our study, we provide a re-estimation of the figures provided in the extant literature. We do so by conducting a study in which we apply two different methods of data collection: (1) telephone interviews, the method considered most valid in previous research, and (2) personal interviews, which involve much higher effort but induce better individual recollection. Using telephone interviews, we measured a user-innovator frequency of 10.8% in our sample. In stark contrast, personal follow-up interviews resulted in a frequency of 39.7%, indicating a considerable underestimation in extant research. We then used the correction factor generated to re-estimate findings on user innovation frequency in Finland, Japan, Korea, Sweden, the UK, and the USA. It appears that user innovation is indeed a mass phenomenon that should not be overlooked by policymakers or firms.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1684 - 1689
JournalResearch Policy (RP)
Volume45
Issue number8
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2016

Austrian Classification of Fields of Science and Technology (ÖFOS)

  • 502019 Marketing
  • 502014 Innovation research

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