Unpacking the microfoundations of dynamic capabilities for digital transformation: insights from a qualitative meta-synthesis

Abstract

Despite growing academic interest in dynamic capabilities (DCs), there is fragmentation and limited clarity about their underlying behavioural actions, processes and structures, commonly referred to as microfoundations (MFs). Understanding their practical applicability is key for organizations dealing with digital transformation (DX) challenges. This study aims to identify and explore the MFs that support DCs in DX contexts. This study uses a rigorous qualitative meta-synthesis method. Its systematic review integrates findings from empirical studies, identifying, categorizing and organizing the underlying MFs across strategic dimensions of sensing, seizing and transforming DCs, as well as operational categories (individual, process and structure). Current research is dominated by seizing-related MFs, suggesting an emphasis on implementation over opportunity detection. Several cross-functional MFs act as integration enablers, bridging sensing, seizing and transforming capabilities; complementary components combining strategic purpose with procedural structure help to clarify the coexistence of Teecean and Eisenhardtian theoretical perspectives in capability development. Beyond integrating prior work, the synthesis reveals underlying structural patterns, disparities across levels and integrative relationships among MFs that are less visible in isolated empirical studies. This study provides a clear, actionable framework for managers and strategists by explicitly integrating previously dispersed MFs and, more broadly, by making visible the uneven distribution of MFs, cross-level interactions and integrative mechanisms. This study refines current understanding of how DCs are configured and operationalized in DX contexts, offering both theoretical advancement and practical strategic guidance for organizations navigating DX.