Abstract

Researchers have used the absorptive capacity construct to explain various organizational phenomena. In this article we review the literature to identify key dimensions of absorptive capacity and offer a reconceptualization of this construct. Building upon the dynamic capabilities view of the firm, we distinguish between a firm's potential and realized capacity. We then advance a model outlining the conditions when the firm's potential and realized capacities can differentially influence the creation and sustenance of its competitive advantage.

Keywords

Absorptive capacityExtension (predicate logic)Organizational behaviorSociologyManagementComputer scienceEconomicsKnowledge management

Affiliated Institutions

Related Publications

Value creation in E‐business

Abstract We explore the theoretical foundations of value creation in e‐business by examining how 59 American and European e‐businesses that have recently become publicly traded ...

2001 Strategic Management Journal 5358 citations

Publication Info

Year
2002
Type
article
Volume
27
Issue
2
Pages
185-203
Citations
7733
Access
Closed

External Links

Social Impact

Social media, news, blog, policy document mentions

Citation Metrics

7733
OpenAlex

Cite This

Shaker A. Zahra, Gerard George (2002). Absorptive Capacity: A Review, Reconceptualization, and Extension. Academy of Management Review , 27 (2) , 185-203. https://doi.org/10.5465/amr.2002.6587995

Identifiers

DOI
10.5465/amr.2002.6587995