Abstract
Extending the dynamic-capability perspective into the study of firm-level innovativeness, this paper proposes a conceptual model that explains how small tourism firms can increase competitiveness through capitalising upon the firm-level dynamic capability of innovativeness. While prior strategic management literature has extensively studied the positive effects of dynamic capabilities on firm performance and competitiveness (e.g., Eisenhardt and Martin, 2000), very little significant research of this kind has been specifically conducted in the small tourism firm and innovativeness context. This is primarily because tourism firms are generally considered to be less innovative. Although this mindset is changing (Hjalager, 2002), academic research in this area still remains underdeveloped.
Drawing from prior relevant work in the strategic Management, innovation, tourism, marketing, and organisational behaviour literatures over the past 50 years, the paper addresses this knowledge gap. It offers a detailed insight into the logic and theoretical underpinnings (dynamic capability) of firm-level innovativeness; and illuminates its role in securing superior competitive advantages for small tourism firms. This paper significantly contributes towards understanding how the small tourism firm can utilise its innovative capability to confer superior competitive advantages.
Keywords: Dynamic-capabilities, innovativeness, firm performance, competitiveness, small tourism firm, conceptual model.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Publication status | Published - 2010 |
| Event | The Toursim and Hospitality Research in Ireland Conference (THRIC) - Shannon College of Hotel Management, Shannon College of Hotel Management Duration: 01 Jan 2010 → … |
Conference
| Conference | The Toursim and Hospitality Research in Ireland Conference (THRIC) |
|---|---|
| City | Shannon College of Hotel Management |
| Period | 01/01/2010 → … |