Comprehensive Analysis of Scientific Production on Absorptive Capacity from 2015 to 2022

Abstract

The objective of this research is to carry out a systematic analysis of studies on the absorptive capacity (AC) in recent years, in order to identify contemporary research trends and possible existing gaps, considering the scope and multifaceted characteristics of this area of ​​knowledge. The main contribution of this article is based on the contemporary understanding of the applicability and complexity related to CA, by identifying the permanent evolution and reifications involved in this context, culminating in emerging revelations on this topic. Based on a systematic review of literature, following the procedures suggested by Tranfield et al. (2003), 220 scientific works were selected with the term “absorptive capacity” in the title of the articles, which served as a basis for the extraction and analysis of the main research published between 2015 and 2022. The article identified relevant studies, themes, sectors, environments and methodologies most used in recent research, in addition to the countries and journals that stood out in studies on AC in the last eight years. Furthermore, the results revealed gaps, methodological and sectoral opportunities, as well as emerging geographic regions that have stood out in studies on AC, contributing to the understanding of the trends and directions of the most current research on this topic.