Ambidextrous structures paving the way for disruptive business models: a conceptual framework

Kristina Stoiber (), Kurt Matzler () and Julia Hautz ()
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Kristina Stoiber: University of Innsbruck
Kurt Matzler: University of Innsbruck
Julia Hautz: University of Innsbruck

Review of Managerial Science, 2023, vol. 17, issue 4, No 10, 1439-1485

Abstract: Abstract Today companies are facing challenges to survive due to substantial transformations induced by digital technologies, ever-changing consumer demands, and environmental uncertainties. Thus, companies need to be innovative to sustain competitive advantages. Scholars and practitioners have recognized the potential of disruptive innovations as a key factor for a company’s competitiveness. Yet, such innovations often challenge established companies due to the tensions between their traditional business model and the newly emerging business model required for disruptive change. The theory of ambidextrous organizations has offered a variety of solutions to tackle these barriers referring to the alignment of exploration and exploitation within an organization’s structure. Current literature, however, faces inconsistencies regarding how this can be achieved. With this study, we therefore aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of how ambidextrous structures enable incumbent companies to reduce the barriers to disruptive business models. On the basis of a systematic literature review, we analyze and compare potential structures and their characteristics proposed in the ambidexterity literature. Drawing on our review, we conceptualize a framework linking the different organizational structures to the barriers associated with disruptive business models. Our framework identifies a range of seven structures which can resolve the barriers and thus support managers in their structural decisions on how to align exploration and exploitation to pave the way for disruptive business models.

Keywords: Disruptive innovation; Organizational ambidexterity; Disruptive business model; Organizational structure; 91C99 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: D23 L29 M10 O32 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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DOI: 10.1007/s11846-022-00589-7

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