Implementing Vital Dynamic Capabilities to Succeed in Digital Transformation: A Multiple-Case Study in Maritime Container Shipping

Dynamic capabilities (DCs) were found to be a success factor in maritime container shipping (MCS) regarding the volatile future, leading to competitive advantages in digital transformation (DT) efforts. Despite its relevance, it remains unclear which DCs are vital for incumbent maritime organizations to succeed in DT and how DCs need to be implemented to enable DT. Referring to this research gap, this article is the first to empirically classify digital sensing, seizing, and transforming capabilities and uncover antecedents relevant to these capabilities. Thereby, we initially combine the DCs view with DT efforts in MCS, providing valuable insights for decision-makers in port authorities, carriers, and freight forwarders. Answers were sought through a cross-case analysis involving 26 experts along the maritime supply chain. The findings highlight strategic agility, innovation ecosystems, and the redesign of organizational structures the most vital second-order concepts for succeeding in DT in MCS. Implementing the identified DCs in MCS is of considerable strategic relevance, advancing the transformation of MCS into a digitalized, efficient, and sustainable industry that preliminary provides service-based offers to its customers. Consequently, this article presents a strategic basis for adapting DT roadmaps and investments in MCS, preparing incumbent MCS organizations for the digital future.