Understanding IT Value at the Managerial Level

Abstract

Managerial ambidexterity is an important precursor to managerial seizing ability. However, ambidexterity can impose substantial costs. Yet information systems may help reduce these costs. We develop a model that includes an inverted U-shaped relationship between managerial ambidexterity and seizing ability. We propose that a manager's effective use of management support systems will mitigate the decline in seizing ability at higher levels of ambidexterity. We test our model with data collected over two time periods from 172 managers. Our results support our model, thereby generating implications for research and practice in IT value, managerial ambidexterity, and dynamic managerial capabilities.