Absorptive capacity development in some firms in Brazil: an organizational perspective*

Abstract This article analyzes how some firms that interacted with universities in Brazil combine different organizational processes and characteristics to develop their Absorptive Capacities (ACAPs). For that, the techniques of Categorical Principal Component Analysis (CatPCA) and Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) are used to analyze data from a survey specific to this objective. The findings reveal that distinct ACAPs, linked with diverse strategies, require specific “organizational configurations” for their development. If ACAPs are developed to expand the knowledge base, without a specific application, they depend on the combination of strong personal relationships within and outside the firm. When ACAPs are geared towards adapting existing technologies, these interpersonal relationships must synergize with managerial practices that involve employee engagement in strategic innovative projects. Finally, if ACAPs are developed to achieve results with a specific appropriability, these internal practices and relationships are combined with a high internal hierarchy that guides the process. JEL: O32; L20.