Open Innovation in Pharmaceutical Industry, A case study of Eli Lilly : How do Big Pharmas implement OI?–A Critical analysis of the current OI practices through a case study

Abstract: Open Innovation paradigm has been a phenomenon of increasing interest in the last two decades, especially since Henry Chesbrough coined this term in 2003, triggering the creation of a new whole body of knowledge. However, all this research work could not come up with a standardized, all-in-one theory. Instead, we find a heterogeneous series of models that cope with different aspects and fit into specific contexts and industries. Among these empirical experiences of Open Innovation, we find the pharmaceutical industry. The shift to Open Innovation in this industry presents several particularities, like the need to overcome the current productivity crisis as driver for change, or the R&D-intensive nature of the industry. In this scenario of urgency, the lack of a well-established theoretical model on Open Innovation makes difficult the task of implementing this paradigm.In this research work, we explore in detail the process of adoption of Open Innovation in the pharmaceutical industry through a case study, and analyze the empirical findings by framing it inside the current theoretical framework. Through this analysis, we aim to highlight generalizable patterns, and specific elements from the current body of knowledge. These highlights might serve as input for the creation of a unified model of Open Innovation.