Do novel or recombined capabilities advance mature technologies?

What is it about?

The further development of a mature technology may be driven by either the creation of novel and rare capabilities or the recombination of widely diffused capabilities. Both kinds of capabilities matter, but when technological uncertainty is low, recombination of existing capabilities is more beneficial.

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Why is it important?

Our research suggests that R&D managers should carefully assess the rate of change of the technology when deciding what capabilities their firm should develop. However, regardless the level of uncertainty, it is dangerous to pursue, at the same time, creation of completely new capabilities and recombination of existing ones.