Fostering knowledge creation through network capability ambidexterity with the moderation of an innovation climate

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to adopt the knowledge-based view and social network theory to investigate the relationship between network capability ambidexterity and knowledge creation (KC) in the context of open innovation. It also examines the moderating effects of innovation climate on this relationship. Design/methodology/approach This paper developed a model including network capability ambidexterity, innovation climate and KC. A total of 463 samples were collected from China to test the model and hypotheses by SEM. Findings The empirical results indicate that network capability ambidexterity is the crucial antecedent of KC. Specifically, network capability ambidexterity consists of the balanced and combined dimensions that both have significant and positive effects on KC. More importantly, the balanced dimension has a stronger effect on KC than the combined. In addition, an innovation climate positively moderates the effects of network capability ambidexterity and KC. Originality/value This study advances a new understanding of how network capability ambidexterity influences KC. Moreover, investigating the relationships should provide fresh insights into network capabilities and KC for practitioners in the open innovation context.