Abstract
The ability to absorb new external knowledge (ACAP) becomes a major source of innovation and competitive advantage. Despite the abundance of literature devoted to this concept, it remains shrouded in conceptual and empirical confusion. In this paper, we will attempt to shed light on this construct. Based on a thematic analysis of this literature, we identify five main themes covered by absorptive capacity research, such as: conceptualizations of ACAP, dimensions, measurement scales, main antecedents and organizational outputs of ACAP. The results show that, despite the efforts made in this field, the variety of conceptualizations, the diversity of measures used, the focus on “Content” of knowledge at the expense of “Processes”, “IT Systems” and “Context” of their integration, restrict our understanding of this concept. The paper then addresses some limitations of that works, and discusses avenues for future researches.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Periodicals of Engineering and Natural Sciences (PEN)
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
