Abstract: This paper studies the assembly of capability in temporary organizations. Based on longitudinal data from the run up to a large scale fundraising event we develop a process model of the cognitive foundations of capability assembly in temporary organizations. A concept we propose within this model is the notion of ‘malleability’. Malleability describes the degree to which capability or purpose can be changed at a particular point in time. We describe the mechanism through which this occurs in particular the interplay of actors’ temporal (past and future oriented), purpose and capability cognition. We suggest that the notions of capability and purpose malleability help to explain why actors continue to select and integrate resources in to a temporary organization, or why they fail to do so.

Abstract: Strategic management research on sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) can offer insightful perspectives, but attention to micro processes is lagging. We develop a theoretical model that clarifies the micro processes by which buyers and supplier can develop more sustainable supply chains. Drawing from and integrating four theoretical anchors—social exchange, positive work relationships, commitment, and dynamic capabilities—we theorize that three processes—synergistic engagement, rich and ongoing communication, and advice seeking and giving—can transition buyer-supplier relations from transactional- to commitment-based ties. We then posit that relationship commitment is a key for building inter-organizational learning agility and we conclude by clarifying learning agility is so critical to sustainable supply chains management.

Abstract: Strategic management traditionally concentrates on different levels of an organization: strategies are formulated on the macro level, implemented on the micro level, and the consequences are measured again on the macro level. As the emerging field of micro-foundations argues, this approach lacks an understanding of the micro to macro link within organizations (e.g. the aggregation). This can be a reason why even well-intended and elaborated strategic management concepts might fail. We present a qualitative empirical study from the field of strategic knowledge management for reconstructing the different ways of aggregation. Our study reveals that understanding the links between the micro and macro level contributes to corporate success. Managers and leaders can assess in a more efficient and effective way the impact of their strategies.

Abstract: Dynamic capabilities theory aims to explain how firms can build and sustain competitive advantage under conditions of changing market conditions. However, the concept of dynamic capabilities remains abstract and has as yet been given limited empirical contents. We study ASML, the worldwide leading supplier of lithography machines for the semiconductor industry. Over a period of just over 30 years, this firm managed to grow and flourish in the highly complex and turbulent environment of the integrated circuits (ICs) production machinery market. In a study covering the first two decades of ASML’s history, we show how ASML built and applied its resources and capabilities base, thereby adapting to the dramatic up- and downturns of the industry.