A common understanding of expectations and requirements is critical for boosting research-driven business opportunities in open innovation (OI) settings. Transparent communication requires common definitions and standards for OI to align the expectations of both parties. Here, we suggest a five-level classification system for OI models, reflecting the degree of openness. The aim of this classification system is to reduce contract negotiation complexity and times between two parties looking to engage in OI. Systematizing definitions and contractual terms for OI in the life sciences helps to reduce entry barriers and boosts collaborative value generation. By providing a contractual framework with predefined rules, science will be allowed to move more freely, thus maximizing the potential of OI.

对期望和要求的共同理解对于在开放式创新（OI）环境中增加研究驱动的业务机会至关重要。透明的沟通要求OI具有通用的定义和标准，以使双方的期望保持一致。在这里，我们建议OI模型采用五级分类系统，以反映开放程度。此分类系统的目的是减少希望进行OI的两方之间的合同谈判复杂性和时间。将生命科学领域中OI的定义和合同条款系统化有助于减少进入壁垒并促进协作价值的产生。通过为合同框架提供预定义的规则，科学将被允许更自由地移动，从而最大程度地发挥OI的潜力。