How Informal Networks Impacts Ambidextrous Innovation via Absorptive Capacity

Abstract

This research empirically investigates the impact of informal networks on ambidextrous innovation (i.e., exploratory innovation and exploitative innovation) and the mediating role of absorptive capacity using 598 manufacturing companies as a simple. The results show that informal networks has a significant positive on ambidextrous innovation. Furthermore, we find that these relationships are mediated by absorptive capacity. These findings enrich the studies on ambidextrous innovation and have significant managerial implications for company managers.