The Interactive Effects of Capabilities and Data-Driven Culture on Sustained Competitive Advantage

As global digitalization accelerates, the manufacturing industry must navigate a terrain reshaped by the dual forces of technological advancement and globalization. This study, rooted in the resource-based view (RBV) theory, examines the unique resources and capabilities that high-technology manufacturing firms must cultivate to sustain a competitive advantage. Specifically, it investigates the roles of Big Data analytics capabilities, Internet-of-Things capabilities, and innovation capabilities as critical factors underpinning this advantage. The research hypothesizes that these strategic assets, consistent with RBV's emphasis on unique firm resources, contribute positively to competitive longevity. Empirical data from 172 Malaysian high-tech manufacturing firms supports the RBV hypothesis, revealing that these capabilities significantly impact sustained competitive advantage. Moreover, the study illuminates the moderating effect of a data-driven culture, a component that the RBV recognizes as crucial for optimizing the value of firm-specific resources. By aligning the empirical findings with RBV tenets, this research provides a nuanced theoretical understanding and actionable guidance for firms seeking to navigate the fourth industrial revolution effectively.