Innovation processes have been researched abundantly from a conceptual and process perspective on the emergence of innovations. Contemporary innovation processes are said to lack consideration of the resource side, even though innovation is very much a human driven process.

One exposed gap in the literature is the importance of self-perception of the actors in such process. By means of a single case study this research brings a first insight into the importance of self-perception of the actors in the open innovation process, on the completion of the innovation process. Social behavioural models and theories related to self-perception creation and alteration have been explored through a literature review. Additionally, the required human characteristics for successful innovation according to the literature has been documented. By means of semi-structured interviews data was collected at an SME to validate the theories applicability in an innovation process environment and amend missing knowledge.

Analysis showed that a growth mindset and self-efficacy are the most important factors to keep in mind when establishing innovation teams. Other self-perception aspects such as mental discomfort from cognitive dissonance and self-discrepancy had no impact on successful innovation.