Social capital and organisational competitiveness in the Information and Communications Technology sector : a validation of the "Opportunity-Motivation-Ability" model

Abstract

This research sought to understand whether external social capital creation with external stakeholders was indeed a valid management tool that could contribute to increasing an organisation s competitiveness under these circumstances. It also aimed to validate the Opportunity-Motivation-Ability (OMA) model for the creation of social capital in the Information and Communications Technology industry and to provide a framework to guide organisations in their endeavours to ensure optimal social capital creation. The necessary leadership qualities that are associated with social capital creation were also explored. This research adds to the current literature on social capital and organisational competitiveness. This research was conducted using a qualitative and explanatory research methodology and collected data through semi-structured interviews with eleven C-level executives across five ICT organisations. Key findings that contribute to the field of social capital and organisational competitiveness include factors such as informational transfer, influence on external stakeholders and differentiation as part of an organisation s strategy. These are shown to contribute positively to an organisation s competitiveness. The OMA was confirmed as a valid model for the ICT industry and importantly all three elements of the model need to present for the benefits of social capital to be realised. Humility and integrity were overwhelmingly identified as being the key leadership qualities associated with social capital creation.