Achieving supply chain ambidexterity: empirical evidence of the contribution of big data analytics capability and learning orientation

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to examine the relationship between Big Data Analytics Capability (BDAC) and Supply Chain Ambidexterity (SCA). Design/methodology/approach Based on the identified gaps from the literature, a framework consisting of four hypotheses was formulated. The model validation involved a sample of 225 managers of small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) in Ghana through a self-administered instrument. Findings The authors found that BDAC enhances SCA while Learning Orientation (LO) positively and partially mediates the link between BDAC and SCA. Practical implications The nexus between BDAC, LO and SCA is not always direct but influenced by LO. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper presents one of the initial investigations into the link between BDAC, LO and SCA in the Sub-Saharan Africa context with emphasis on the mediating role of LO in the SME setting.