Not invented here (NIH) is the tendency to avoid using or buying products, research, standards, or knowledge from external origins. This bias often arises from various factors, such as supporting local economies, fear of patent infringement, or inadequate understanding of external ideas. It can manifest as an unwillingness to adopt ideas or products because they originate from different cultures or external sources, reflecting a form of tribalism.
An example of the NIH bias can be seen in corporate environments where R&D teams refuse to utilize innovative technologies developed by external companies, believing that their own solutions are superior simply because they originate in-house. This insularity was evidenced in a study by Katz and Allen, which showed declining performance in R&D teams due to lack of external communication.
To overcome the NIH bias, organizations should promote a culture of openness that values external ideas, encourages collaboration, and recognizes the benefits of adopting innovations regardless of their source. This can include active scouting of external advancements and fostering partnerships.