A dynamic capability perspective of ambidexterity and itsimpact on international venture performance: Evidence from Nigerian industrial SMEs

Digital technologies provide contemporary organizations with a unique opportunity to develop a new set of dynamic capabilities to advance their business activities. For small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in particular, technology can serve as a powerful force that can be used in order to meet the challenges imposed by larger competitors, especially in an international business context. The present study examines the role of three technology-related dynamic capabilities in influencing the international venture performance of SMEs, by supporting their efforts to fully exploit their current products, knowledge, and processes (exploitation orientation) or by assisting them in developing new knowledge, introducing innovating offerings, and adopting novel business approaches (exploration orientation). Using data collected from Nigerian SMEs which operate in international markets, we find that digitalization capabilities, market capitalizing agility, and real-time market responsiveness have a positive impact on the pursuing of both an exploitation and exploration orientation towards international business activities. We also indicate that an exploitation orientation (but not an exploration orientation) has a significant positive impact on international venture performance