Enterprise knowledge generation driven by internet integration capability: A mediated moderation model

Aim/Purpose Drawing on theories of organizational learning, this study analyzes the mechanism of Internet integration capability affecting knowledge generation by 399 Chinese enterprises. This paper will further explore whether there is a moderating role of learning orientation in the mechanism of Internet integration capability affecting enterprise knowledge generation. Background The Internet has gradually integrated into the enterprise innovation system and penetrated into all aspects of technological innovation, which has promoted the integration and optimization of resources inside and outside the organization. However, there is limited understanding of how the combination of the Internet and integration capability can drive enterprise knowledge generation. Methodology The study uses survey data from 399 organizations in China. Through structural equation modeling, this study assesses the relationship between Internet integration capability, organizational learning, knowledge generation, and uses PROCESS macro program to test the mediated moderation effect of learning orientation. Contribution First, this study provides empirical evidence for managers to better build Internet integration capability and ambidextrous learning to promote enterprise knowledge generation. Second, this study highlights the important moderating role of learning orientation in the mediating role of ambidextrous learning. Findings First, the study confirms the mediating role of exploratory learning and exploitative learning in knowledge generation driven by Internet integration capability. Second, the results show that when organizations have a strong learning orientation, the indirect path of Internet integration capability influencing knowledge generation through exploratory learning will be enhanced. Recommendations Enterprises should pay full attention to the improvement of internet integra-for Practitioners tion capability and ambidextrous learning to promote knowledge generation. In addition, enterprises should establish a good learning atmosphere within the organization to strengthen the bridge role of exploratory learning between Internet integration capability and knowledge generation. Recommendations Researchers could collect data from countries with different levels of ecofor Researchers nomic development to verify the universal applicability of the proposed theoretical model. Impact on Society This study provides references for enterprises using Internet integration capability to promote their knowledge generation capability under the internet background. Future Research Future research can compare the impact of Internet integration capability on knowledge generation in different industries. © 2020 Informing Science Institute. All rights reserved.