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

Author

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  • Robert Keller

    (Kempten University of Applied Sciences)

  • Philipp Ollig

    (University of Bayreuth)

  • Patrick Rövekamp

    (FIM Research Center)

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Robert Keller & Philipp Ollig & Patrick Rövekamp, 2022. "Pathways to Developing Digital Capabilities within Entrepreneurial Initiatives in Pre-Digital Organizations," Business & Information Systems Engineering: The International Journal of WIRTSCHAFTSINFORMATIK, Springer;Gesellschaft für Informatik e.V. (GI), vol. 64(1), pages 33-46, February.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:binfse:v:64:y:2022:i:1:d:10.1007_s12599-021-00739-3
    DOI: 10.1007/s12599-021-00739-3
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    Cited by:

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    2. Dennis M. Steininger & M. Kathryn Brohman & Jörn H. Block, 2022. "Digital Entrepreneurship: What is New if Anything?," Business & Information Systems Engineering: The International Journal of WIRTSCHAFTSINFORMATIK, Springer;Gesellschaft für Informatik e.V. (GI), vol. 64(1), pages 1-14, February.

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