The absorptive capacity process: an exposition and update
Journal of Organizational Change Management
ISSN: 0953-4814
Article publication date: 6 October 2021
Issue publication date: 24 January 2022
Abstract
Purpose
This study investigates the development of absorptive capacity. Using an integrated cognitive learning perspective, this study provides empirical evidence about the conceptual absorptive capacity model through examining the full process step by step. Two groups of moderating variables were studied—namely, social integration and appropriability—to examine their impact on the process.
Design/methodology/approach
This study employed a longitudinal study from a community service program (Kuliah Kerja Nyata) at Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia, by using surveys at the beginning and the end of the project. Of 492 teams from 2,444 students participated in the study. Each individual within a team had at least one project assigned to him/her during the project. The absorptive capacity process was examined through six consecutive models and analysed using hierarchical linear modelling. The moderating variables were tested using the Moderated Regression Analysis and Wald tests.
Findings
The study confirms the full cycle of absorptive capacity as an independent, dynamic and complex process; it involves acquiring, assimilating, transforming and exploiting sequencing variables from the individual level to the team level and vice versa using feed-forward and feedback mechanisms adopted from the 4I framework of organisational learning. However, the roles of the moderating variables are still inconclusive due to some possible factors, which were also reflected by the U-phenomenon.
Originality/value
This study provides vital support to the learning theory as well as to the organisation learning concept. This study also reveals empirical evidence about the unsupported moderating variables behave during a project cycle, such as what they function, how they evolve and what we should do about the moderating factors during a project. The findings of this study provide practical suggestions and highlight areas for future research.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This study was sponsored by Rekognisi Tugas Akhir (RTA) program from Universitas Gadjah Mada. Publication of this study is the output requirement from the program. This research was also sponsored by Atma Jaya Catholic University of Indonesia using dissertation grant program.
Citation
Lukito-Budi, A.S., Indarti, N. and Setiawan, K. (2022), "The absorptive capacity process: an exposition and update", Journal of Organizational Change Management, Vol. 35 No. 1, pp. 78-114. https://doi.org/10.1108/JOCM-05-2021-0141
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
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