Dynamic capabilities within a Saudi Arabian context

Abstract

This thesis demonstrates new thinking and contributes to the field of organisational studies by advancing the Dynamic Capabilities (DC) framework. Firstly, by exploring the framework within the Saudi Arabian context and secondly, by providing a new construct based on the influence that the antecedent processes of organisational learning, organisational culture, and leadership capabilities have on DC. Additionally, the findings support the generalizability of the extended DC framework and argues that it would be relevant to other countries transitioning through periods of disequilibrium in their economic eco-system.
A literature review highlighted the continuing interest in the conceptual explanation of the DC framework and empirical studies. However, the literature review revealed a lack of empirical research on DC in Saudi Arabia, and gaps in how organizations identify and select the capabilities they need to build.
The Researcher’s subjectivist epistemological philosophy is based on his assumptions that knowledge in Saudi organizations is a projection of the personal experiences, beliefs and values of individuals, thereby justifying the adoption of a subjectivist philosophical stance, and research methods that explore their individual understandings and subjective realities. To this end, the mixed-methods approach proved the best choice. Data was collected from a combination of semi-structured interviews involving critical purposively selected senior executives (Chairmen, CEOs, Vice Presidents, and Senior Managers), and an on-line survey questionnaire circulated to active practitioners in a cross-section of Saudi organizations. The data analysis (qualitative and quantitative) involved the NVivo application, and the SPSS 25 and SPSS AMOS applications.
The study contributes to practice by identifying implications at the macro, messo and micro levels.

Date of Award	Dec 2020
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	University of Portsmouth
Supervisor	Mark Xu (Supervisor) & Foteini Kravariti (Supervisor)