Perceived reason to hinder ACAP increase

Abstract

We derive through literature review that lack of internal R&D investment, lack of contribution into absorptive capacity (ACAP) nurturing at the initial phase of a project, and lack of adequate training prevent ACAP improvement. We conduct 41 interviews using a case study method on four organizations. Based on the empirical findings, it is revealed that most of practitioners know how ACAP can be improved. But still, they do not offer the important incentives and follow some traditional ways of performing their tasks. We further explore what prevents practitioners from implementing practices towards ACAP improvement. From our empirical findings we identify and analyze perceived reasons that hinder ACAP increase. The implications of the findings are discussed for both practice and research.