Innovation capabilities and performance of small and medium-sized enterprises in Indonesia

Abstract

Orientation: Entrepreneurial orientation (EO), knowledge management (KM), human resource management (HRM) and knowledge sharing (KS) are important aspects in driving innovation capabilities (IC) to improve organisational performance (OP).

Research purpose: The purpose of this research was to analyse the mediating effect of IC on individual EO, KM, HRM and KS and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) performance.

Motivation for the study: The fluctuation in batik business performance can be attributed to a lack of studies that examine the dynamic capability perspective in the context of batik SMEs in developing countries.

Research design, approach and method: A quantitative approach was used for this study. A structured self-administrative measuring instrument was employed to collect the data. A non-probability sample of 297 participants was obtained. The collected data were then analysed using SmartPLS3 software.

Main findings: Innovation capabilities have been verified to significantly mediate the relationship between HRM and KS on OP. Innovation capabilities mediated the relationship between KS and OP in a negative direction, whereas previous studies indicate a positive direction.

Practical/managerial implications: Entrepreneurial orientation has the most prominent role in OP in batik SMEs. An EO allows business actors to optimise their creativity and innovation to develop ideas, which helps maximise the growth of OP in SMEs.

Contribution/value-add: This study’s results support the concept that EO develops various skills, from managing uncertainty to tolerating risk and forming strong entrepreneurial abilities to improve business performance.