Impact of strategic human resource management on open innovation: a chain mediation analysis of intellectual capital and supply chain integration

Abstract

Purpose

In the pursuit of competitive advantage, an increasing number of firms are adopting open innovation (OI) strategies. However, previous studies have often overlooked the role of strategic human resource management (SHRM) in promoting OI. This study aims to fill this gap by examining how SHRM impacts OI through the mediating factors of intellectual capital (IC) and supply chain integration (SCI). This research sheds light on the critical interplay between SHRM, IC and SCI in driving OI success. The findings underscore the importance of adopting a comprehensive and integrated approach to OI that encompasses both resources and dynamic capabilities.

Design/methodology/approach

By integrating resource-based view with the dynamic capability perspective, the hypotheses were tested with a survey sample of 136 Chinese manufacture firms using hierarchical regression and bootstrap method.

Findings

The results show that SHRM has a positive effect on OI, and both IC and SCI are partial mediators of the relationship between SHRM and OI. In addition, the chain mediation effect of “SHRM-IC-SCI-OI” has further been verified.

Originality/value

This study uncovers the “black box” between SHRM and OI, and responds to the call for strengthening research on the relationship between SHRM and OI. The study indicates that firms should implement HR practices, including extensive training, team reward and internal promotion to promote the implementation of OI strategy.

Citation

Song, D., Zhang, P., Shi, R. and Yin, Y. (2023), "Impact of strategic human resource management on open innovation: a chain mediation analysis of intellectual capital and supply chain integration", Chinese Management Studies, Vol. ahead-of-print No. ahead-of-print. https://doi.org/10.1108/CMS-01-2023-0023