The Under-Developed Social Integration Mechanism as Moderating Factor of Two-Dimensional Absorptive Capacity Relationship: Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

The study aims to answer how and what kind of the social integration mechanisms may influence the relationship between the two dimensions of absorptive capacity which is, potential absorptive capacity (PACAP) and realized absorptive capacity (RACAP). The social integration mechanism has been neglected from the discussion on how firm assimilate and transform external knowledge to advance their absorptive capacity. In doing so, we answer recent call for research about a more thorough systematic literature review of the absorptive capacity and social integration mechanisms and its definitions. We surveyed literatures published during the years 2010 to 2020 and only found 8 articles discussing moderating variable between PACAP and RACAP out of 277 articles on absorptive capacity. The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate what social integration mechanisms influence the relationship between PACAP and RACAP and how they help overcome barriers to knowledge sharing. The results showed social integration mechanism can be in terms of high commitment works system, knowledge ambiguity, organizational size, relational learning, and cultural balance. Therefore, more research underlines the importance of social integration mechanism should be encouraged.