In researching open and distributed modes of innovation, I particularly focus on physical and virtual makerspaces. Makerspaces are open, community-based ecosystems for individuals to socialize, exchange ideas, collaborate, tinker, be creative and innovate. Makerspaces provide their members with access to tools, technologies and equipment, offer various forms of training and support and ample opportunities for collaboration. Virtual makerspaces based on digital platforms provide increasingly comparable benefits as digital infrastructures and design tools allow locally dispersed individuals to socialize, ideate, engage in probe-and-learn processes and virtually prototype.
Selected Publications:
The role of makerspaces in supporting consumer innovation and diffusion: An empirical analysis
The Relevance of Makerspaces for University-based Venture Development Organizations