Empirically testing innovation characteristics and organizational learning capabilities in e‐business implementation success

Abstract

Purpose – Based on the innovation diffusion theory and organizational learning literature, the purpose of this paper is to develop a research model to examine innovation characteristics and organizational learning capabilities as the determinants of e-business implementation success. Design/methodology/approach – Survey data from 163 IS (information system) managers in large Taiwanese firms were collected and used to test the research model. Findings – The results showed that two innovation characteristics (perceived relative advantage and compatibility) and four organizational learning capabilities (managerial commitment, systems orientation, knowledge acquisition, and knowledge dissemination) have a significant effect on e-business implementation success. Research limitations/implications – Some factors, other than the innovation characteristics and organizational learning capabilities included in this study, may also influence e-business implementation. The research model could act as a theoretical basis for studying further sources of value creation from technology innovations. Practical implications – Results from this study suggest that, to achieve successful e-business implementation, managers should pay more attention to cultivating a climate where learning is valued and supported, develop systematic perspectives of various activities and events, and establish mechanisms that facilitate effective learning environments. Originality/value – This study is significant for at least two reasons: first, it contributes to e-business research that technological innovation can be better understood by including both innovation characteristics and organizational learning capabilities, while earlier literature has traditionally treated the two separately and, second, it provides valuable guidelines to policy-makers and practitioners in implementing e-business and accelerating e-business development.