An empirical investigation of dynamic capabilities in managing strategic flexibility in manufacturing organizations

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the relative impact of dynamic capabilities on various dimensions of strategic flexibility in Indian manufacturing industry. Design/methodology/approach – In this study, 102 manufacturing organizations have been extensively surveyed, to assess the relative impact of different dynamic capabilities on various dimensions of strategic flexibility. The correlations between dynamic capabilities and strategic flexibility have been evaluated and validated by employing various statistical tools. Findings – The research focuses upon the significant contributions of dynamic capabilities such as human resource capabilities, innovative capabilities, technological capabilities, alliance capabilities and research and development capabilities, towards managing flexibility at strategic level in manufacturing organizations. Originality/value – This study provides the first empirical evidence of such a relationship with a relative choice between dynamic capabilities for managing strategic flexibility in large and medium scale organizations in India.