Is ambidextrous learning a driver for SMEs' sustainable competitive advantage in the digital era? An empirical study of SMEs in Nanjing, China

Abstract

In the digital era, digital innovation (DI) has become the first choice for many enterprises to create sustainable competitive advantage (SCA). How to effectively realize DI has become the focus of enterprises. Since ambidextrous learning (AL) provides two paths of knowledge acquisition, it can provide sufficient knowledge for corporate DI. However, this is not an easy task for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) given the dilemma of relatively scarce resources. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate whether AL can be a driving force for SMEs to build a SCA in the digital era. Meanwhile, this study intends to analyze the roles of DI and digital culture (DC) in the above relationship. Research data were obtained from leaders of 289 knowledge‐intensive SMEs in Nanjing, China. Through theoretical analysis and empirical testing, this study has obtained some findings. First, AL can be more effective in enhancing SMEs' SCA than exploratory or exploitative learning. Second, DI mediates the relationship between AL and SCA. Finally, DC can reinforce the mediating role of DI between AL and SCA. These findings reveal the influence mechanism between AL and SMEs' SCA in the digital era. In addition, this study helps us better understand how DI and DC operate within the above mechanism. Meanwhile, this study provides decision support for SMEs to establish SCAs in the digital era.

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“…It is intricately tied to the role of leaders who drive the digital strategy and shape the overall direction of the organization [6]. In essence, the key to thriving in the digital era lies in embracing a leadership style that fosters adaptation, creativity, and forward-thinking within an organization [7].…”

“…Leaders must be able to leverage digital technology to influence their behavior, as well as that of their team members, to enhance overall organizational performance. This concept encompasses three key components: integrating digital technology into management practices, evolving leadership attitudes and behaviors, and, ultimately, improving organizational effectiveness [7].…”