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

TY - JOUR

T1 - Reconceptualising absorptive capacity to explain the e-enablement of the HR function (e-HR)

AU - Martin, G.

AU - Reddington, M.

PY - 2009

Y1 - 2009

N2 - 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.

AB - 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.

U2 - 10.1108/01425450910979266

DO - 10.1108/01425450910979266

M3 - Article

SN - 0142-5455

VL - 31

SP - 515

EP - 537

JO - Employee Relations

JF - Employee Relations

IS - 5

ER -