Impact of ambidexterity of blockchain technology and social factors on new product development: A supply chain and Industry 4.0 perspective

This study develops a technology and social capital process aided product innovation conceptual model based on dynamic capability and supply chain ambidexterity theory. The strategy of organisational ambidexterity in balancing technological and relational social capital factors between buyers and suppliers leads to a higher level of digital manufacturing capabilities and enhances buyers' innovation potential, considering the sustainable practices in their processes to cope with Industry 4.0 manufacturing processes and sustainability challenges. The study empirically validates the model using data collected from 379 French manufacturing companies. This is the first study that examines how buyers perceive the role of blockchain technology in exploring and exploiting innovation management in the Industry 4.0 era. The study advances understanding on the theory of ambidexterity of supply chains in buyer-supplier relationships. The study results show the positive effect between internal integration and blockchain technology as well as relational social capital factors in buyer-supplier relationships. The findings underscore the critical role of relational and technological capital in buyer-supplier relationships, specifically to act as a catalyst for exploiting internal capabilities to achieve the innovation targets. The unique findings state blockchain technology mediation is dominant in exploiting the internal capabilities and benefits buyers' innovation orientation.

Automated summary

This study develops a conceptual model on product innovation based on dynamic capability and supply chain ambidexterity theory, with a focus on the impact of technology and social capital. Utilizing data from French manufacturing companies, it examines the role of blockchain technology in exploring innovation management in the Industry 4.0 era and highlights the positive effects of internal integration and relational social capital factors in buyer-supplier relationships. The findings emphasize the critical role of relational and technological capital in stimulating internal capabilities for innovation.