Augmentation Innovation Paradox: Rethinking Validation in Generative AI-Driven Open Innovation

Open innovation is undergoing a fundamental transformation with the rise of artificial intelligence, particularly through the emergence of augmented innovation, characterized by the collaborative interplay between human creativity and generative AI. This study investigates a central tension in this shift: the ideation–validation paradox. While generative AI (GenAI) significantly accelerates the process of idea generation, it simultaneously introduces new complexities around validating the quality, novelty, and feasibility of those ideas. To address this paradox, we propose an extended ideation framework that identifies five socio-technical mechanisms aimed at making GenAI-driven contributions more systematic, auditable, and responsible. We conclude by outlining a future research agenda to advance our understanding of human–AI collaboration within open innovation ecosystems.