Absorptive and adaptive capacity as a key to successful commercialization process. A case study of SMEs in the Norwegian petroleum sector

Abstract

When studies have identified different types of dynamic capabilities, scholars agree that the field lacks empirical studies of new firms and the role of dynamic capabilities in their survival and development (Zahra et al., 2006). Following this call, we aim to answer the following research question: How absorptive and adaptive capacity of the firm enhances its ability to commercialize? A longitudinal comparative case study of three new innovative firms operating within drilling and exploration activities in the Norwegian petroleum industry was chosen. The findings reveal that for small innovative firms in the early-stage, absorptive capacity may be especially crucial for development of innovative product, while adaptive capability is necessary for successful commercialisation process and firm survival.