Relational resources for innovation ambidexterity within coopetitive relationships: the contingent role of managerial ambidexterity

Chandrasekararao Seepana, Antony Paulraj, Palie Smart

Research output: Journal PublicationArticlepeer-review

4 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Purpose: While the performance benefits of relational resources and managerial ambidexterity have been widely discussed in coopetition literature, there is only limited evidence that illustrates the underlying relationships between these relational resources and managerial ambidexterity. Against this background, this paper aims to investigate how managerial ambidexterity moderates the innovation ambidexterity effects of relational resources (i.e. reciprocal investments and complementary resources). Design/methodology/approach: This study forwards various hypotheses that are grounded within the theoretical tenets of the relational view and the dynamic capabilities perspective. To test the hypotheses, this study uses survey data provided by 313 firms that pursue horizontal coopetition relationships. Findings: The research findings offer important insights in that while reciprocal investments lead to innovation ambidexterity, complementary resources do not result in such benefits. Additionally, managerial ambidexterity complements the relational resources to develop innovation ambidexterity if and only if both managerial exploration and exploitation are applied simultaneously. Originality/value: As opposed to widely-held beliefs, this study finds that firms' use of complementary resources is not likely to lead to innovation ambidexterity even though such resources can help in developing strong relationships. In addition, although often overlooked, managerial ambidexterity plays a vital role in transforming relational resources into useful innovations for firms involved in coopetition relationships. It is crucial for firms that their managers balance their ambidextrous activities of exploration and exploitation so as to develop innovation ambidexterity.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1969-1994
Number of pages26
JournalInternational Journal of Operations and Production Management
Volume42
Issue number12
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 10 Nov 2022
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Complementary resources
  • Innovation ambidexterity
  • Manager's exploitation
  • Manager's exploration
  • Managerial ambidexterity
  • Reciprocal investments

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Decision Sciences
  • Strategy and Management
  • Management of Technology and Innovation

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