Reconceptualising absorptive capacity to explain the e-enablement of the HR function (e-HR)

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to ask why some organizations might be better than others at continuous innovation in the field of e-enablement of human resource (e-HR).

Design/methodology/approach – To answer this question, the notion of absorptive capacity (ACAP) is applied to explain some of the problems faced in moving from face-to-face HR to a technology-mediated model.

Findings – Dynamic ACAP models are adapted to produce a more realistic, iterative framework in which realized capacities for e-HR innovations contribute to, and constrain, potential capacities for further innovations.

Research limitations/implications – The model is used to offer some research propositions for academics operating in this newly emerging field of human resource management (HRM).

Practical implications – Some theory-driven advice are also offered for HR practitioners.

Originality/value – The specific contribution is to introduce the concept of ACAP to HRM scholars and practitioners interested in the field of e-HR and Web 2.0 social media.