INNOVATION STRATEGIES: AN ANALYSIS IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY STARTUPS

Abstract

Objective: Analyze the main innovation strategies used by information technology startups. Methodology: A qualitative exploratory study was developed, with the evidence interpreted from the content analysis technique. Data collection took place through a semi-structured interview script applied to four managers (founders) of information technology startups, domiciled in the states of Sergipe, Maranhão and Ceará. Main results: The main practices for promoting open innovation identified were partnerships with customers and organizations; and the least found strategy was internationalization. Theoretical/Methodological contributions: This study contributes to the literature on the subject, confirming, through empirical evidence, that open innovation practices adopted by information technology startups are, primarily, partnerships, which follow an informal implementation, through knowledge and the skills offered by the parties involved, to overcome operational deficiencies and obtain specific learning. Another relevant finding was that non-collaboration with institutional actors favors the implementation of incremental innovations. Relevance/Originality: Information technology startups are businesses that are known to be active in bringing innovations to the market. However, studies on innovation strategies in this type of business are still scarce and knowing the nature and ways of implementing these strategies is pertinent, since it can foster better results in innovation.