Examining the effect of learning orientation on innovativeness

Abstract

Although the significance of learning organisation is recognised in innovation management, there seems to be a lack of studies on how learning orientation affects on innovativeness in small firms. This paper aims at filling this gap. Using 87 small size business manufacturing and service firms in Tehran (27% response rate), it was found that higher levels of commitment to learning, shared vision and open-mindedness lead these small firms to be more innovative. Hence, innovativeness in small firms can be driven by commitment to learning. Overall, the regression analysis suggests that the effects of commitment to learning, shared vision and open-mindedness on market share are important.