Rethinking innovation theory through collaborative innovation platforms: Synthesising a taxonomy of innovation mechanisms using a multi-vocal literature review

To foster innovation, organisations increasingly rely on digital platforms that facilitate collaboration and knowledge exchange within and across organisational boundaries. Collaborative innovation platforms (CIPs) have emerged as a key means of supporting such processes, yet existing research remains fragmented and lacks a coherent account of the mechanisms by which CIPs enhance innovative capacity. To address this gap, this study conducts a multivocal literature review that combines a systematic literature review of CIPs with a content analysis of platforms commonly used in practice. Following the PRISMA guidelines, 78 academic publications describing 70 unique research-based CIPs were analysed, complemented by an examination of 10 platforms used in practice. Using an established taxonomy development method, we identify and synthesise the core mechanisms, sub-mechanisms, and associated functions implemented in CIPs. The analysis reveals four interdependent innovation mechanisms: Collaboration Management, Knowledge Management, Learning Management, and Innovation Process Management that jointly shape how CIPs support innovation across different contexts. Building on these findings, the study proposes a consolidated taxonomy that links abstract innovation theories to concrete platform mechanisms and highlights underexplored mechanisms, particularly those related to organisational learning, social integration, and innovation implementation. The study contributes to theory on collaborative innovation by conceptualising CIPs in terms of their distinct yet interdependent mechanisms rather than as platform typologies. For researchers and practitioners, the taxonomy provides a structured foundation for analysing, designing, and evolving CIPs across organisational settings.