Ambidextrous intellectual capital in the haute cuisine sector
International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management
ISSN: 0959-6119
Article publication date: 15 October 2019
Issue publication date: 13 January 2020
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to conceptualize organizational ambidexterity and intellectual capital in the haute cuisine sector, describing their interrelation. Specifically, the study draws on the dimensions of intellectual capital as a lens to understand ambidextrous capabilities.
Design/methodology/approach
Three research questions were addressed using a qualitative methodology. The researchers conducted ten interviews with sector experts from haute cuisine restaurants.
Findings
The paper identifies the constituents of organizational ambidexterity and intellectual capital in the haute cuisine sector. It also frames how these elements interrelate each other to allow the generation of ambidextrous capabilities.
Research limitations/implications
The investigation was conducted in only one country and a single sector.
Practical implications
The study provides guidance for haute cuisine restaurant managers to simultaneously develop innovation and efficiency in everyday activities, without having to choose between these two strategic objectives. Results show they must focus on human capital, which is one of the most important strategic resources in haute cuisine restaurants. This paper can help managers to design the organizational structures, processes and routines that allow haute cuisine restaurants to be ambidextrous.
Originality/value
The understanding of organizational ambidexterity and intellectual capital, and their integration, is critical for successful hospitality operations; however, research in this area is still limited. This integration can help haute cuisine restaurants to develop ambidextrous capabilities through their intellectual capital, establishing mechanisms to integrate individuals and group capabilities within the organizations.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The authors appear in alphabetical order and have contributed equally to this paper. The research project described in this paper was developed under the Research Group SEJ-449 funded by the Andalusian Government (Andalusian Plan for R&D&I 2007–2013) and the Research Project ECO2014-56580-R, funded by the Spanish Ministry for Science and Technology (Non-oriented Fundamental Research Projects Subprogram).
Citation
Fernández-Pérez de la Lastra, S., Martín-Alcázar, F. and Sánchez-Gardey, G. (2020), "Ambidextrous intellectual capital in the
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2019, Emerald Publishing Limited