Organizational Structures Leveraging Disruptive Innovations: A Conceptual Framework

Abstract

Companies are facing challenges to survive due to substantial transformations induced by digital technologies. Thus, companies need to be innovative to sustain competitive advantages. Recent literature recognizes the potential of disruptive innovations as a key factor for a company’s competitiveness. However, disruptive innovations often challenge established companies due to the conflict between their existing business model and the newly emerging, disruptive business model. This study investigates how established companies can overcome such challenges and successfully develop and implement disruptive business models. In particular, we analyze different organizational structures proposed in the literature that promote disruptive business model innovations in established companies. On the basis of a systematic literature review, we conceptualize a framework linking the different organizational structures to the challenges arising from conflicting business models. The developed framework identifies which structures leverage the capability of established companies to implement a disruptive business model and thus strengthen its competitiveness.