Pathways to Developing Digital Capabilities within Entrepreneurial Initiatives in Pre-Digital Organizations

Authors

Robert Keller, FIM Research Center, University of Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany.Follow
Philipp Ollig, FIM Reserach Center, University of BayreuthFollow
Patrick Rövekamp, FIM Research CenterFollow

Document Type

Research Paper

Abstract

To enable new digital business models, pre-digital organizations launch entrepreneurial initiatives. However, in developing the required digital capabilities, pre-digital organizations often face challenges as they are marked by the ways they have historically established their organizational identity. Research on how pre-digital organizations can develop digital capabilities remains scarce. This study draws on a single case study to illustrate potential pathways for the development of digital capabilities. Two key characteristics are identified: the source of digital capability development and the set-up of the actors involved. The authors synthesize four possible pathway manifestations, discuss the dynamic nature of pathway combinations, and suggest that managing a portfolio of pathways may be crucial for pre-digital organizations. Therefore, the study contributes to a better understanding of digital transformation in pre-digital organizations. Furthermore, it provides guidance for practitioners to reflect on when deciding which pathways to follow.

Recommended Citation

Keller, Robert; Ollig, Philipp; and Rövekamp, Patrick (2022) "Pathways to Developing Digital Capabilities within Entrepreneurial Initiatives in Pre-Digital Organizations," Business & Information Systems Engineering: Vol. 64: Iss. 1, 33-46.
Available at: https://aisel.aisnet.org/bise/vol64/iss1/3