Title: Dynamic capabilities for opportunity exploration: insights from an explorative case study

Authors: Sandra Baumbach; Anna Maria Oberländer; Maximilian Röglinger; Michael Rosemann

Addresses: FIM Research Center, University of Augsburg, Universitätsstrasse 12, 86159, Augsburg, Germany ' FIM Research Center, University of Bayreuth, Wittelsbacherring 10, 95444, Bayreuth, Germany ' FIM Research Center, University of Bayreuth, Project Group Business & Information Systems Engineering of the Fraunhofer FIT, Wittelsbacherring 10, 95444 Bayreuth, Germany ' Queensland University of Technology, Centre for Future Enterprise, 2 George Street, Brisbane Qld, 4000, Australia

Abstract: Digital technologies offer organisations new opportunities. However, unlike well-defined problem-response strategies (e.g., Lean Management), it remains elusive how to identify and leverage opportunities, particularly for public sector organisations. As extant knowledge lacks corresponding theory-guided and empirically validated opportunity management practices, this study provides insights on opportunity management practices through an exploratory case study. The case of interest is Queensland Urban Utilities, a utility provider which developed a strong focus on opportunity exploration despite operating in a low-competition environment. Building upon organisational ambidexterity and dynamic capabilities as theoretical lenses, we present a conceptual framework distinguishing two opportunity types, namely core and new business opportunities. Along this framework, we present 15 practice areas and actionable practices, supported by real-life examples. Thereby, we identify two facets of exploration demanding divergent capabilities to sense and seize opportunities. Our study contributes to the understanding of exploration capabilities and supports practitioners in developing opportunity management practices.

Keywords: opportunity; opportunity management; organisational ambidexterity; opportunity exploration; dynamic capabilities; case study research; single case study.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEV.2020.112232

International Journal of Entrepreneurial Venturing, 2020 Vol.12 No.6, pp.575 - 616

Received: 05 Apr 2019
Accepted: 13 Jan 2020
Published online: 05 Jan 2021 *

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