Social capital, exploratory learning and exploitative learning in project-based firms: the mediating effect of collaborative environment

Abstract

Purpose The study aims to provide suggestions for project-based firms (PBFs) to create value through the development of social capital, collaborative environment and organisational learning (exploratory & exploitative learning). In this regard, a conceptual model is proposed that examines the interrelations between social capital, collaborative environment and exploratory & exploitative learning in the context of PBFs. Design/methodology/approach A semi-systematic literature review focussed on interrelations between social capital, exploratory & exploitative learning and collaborative environment was undertaken. Top ranked journals and highly relevant journal articles in the management domain were considered for the review. To analyse literature, the content analysis technique incorporating NVIVO 12 software was adopted. Findings Conceptual model suggests that social capital positively affects exploratory & exploitative learning through collaborative environment in PBFs. Three dimensions of social capital (network ties, trust and shared goals) create collaborative environment and collaborative environment enhances organisational learning in PBFs across different levels. Ultimately, social capital, collaborative environment and exploratory & exploitative learning contribute to value creation in PBFs. Originality/value Although the relationship between social capital and exploratory & exploitative learning has been researched previously, findings remain inconsistent. This study provides an alternative perspective to discuss this relationship with the proposed mediating construct: collaborative environment. Considering the context of PBFs, a conceptual model was developed to explain the interrelations between social capital, collaborative environment and learning. This study especially discusses collaborative environment as a value creation factor.

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“…“Semi-systematic literature review” was adopted as the research methodology of this paper (cf. Snyder, 2019; Sumanarathna et al , 2020). A literature review is explained as semi-systematic when systematic analysis of prior literature findings and integrative perspectives regarding the same findings are included (Sumanarathna et al , 2020).…”

“…Snyder, 2019; Sumanarathna et al , 2020). A literature review is explained as semi-systematic when systematic analysis of prior literature findings and integrative perspectives regarding the same findings are included (Sumanarathna et al , 2020). Accordingly, a conceptual framework is proposed to explain IoT-BIM - based smart FM by adopting a methodology consisting of three phases (Gao and Pishdad-Bozorgi, 2019; Sumanarathna et al , 2020; Volk et al , 2014) as elaborated below.…”

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“…Putting in place actions to retain social capital can be a first step in retaining a learning culture. Sumanarathna et al (2020) carry forward the theme of social capital in "Social Capital, Exploratory Learning and Exploitative Learning in project-based firms: The mediating effect of collaborative environment." The authors explore the same social capital elements as Srirama et al (2020): structural, relational and cognitive.…”