Research on the impact of digital transformation on the innovation of Chinese manufacturing enterprises

doi:10.19571/j.cnki.1000-2995.2025.05.001

Abstract

Abstract: Leveraging digital resources effectively to enhance innovation performance constitutes a critical practical issue in promoting the high-quality development of China′s manufacturing sector. Existing research has predominantly focused on the impact of dynamic capabilities on innovation performance, yet seldom explores the intrinsic connection between dynamic capabilities and innovation capabilities, as well as their synergistic interaction mechanisms within digital-enabled transformation processes. Based on the dynamic capability theory and the "resource-capability-performance" logic framework, this thesis empirically examined the impact and mechanisms of digital transformation on corporate innovation performance using the data from A-share listed manufacturing enterprises during 2013-2022 and employing the fixed-effects models and Bootstrap methods. The findings revealed that: (1) Digital transformation drives the enhancement of innovation performance through technological enablement; (2) Dynamic capability (opportunity perception, learning absorption, resource restructuring capability) and innovation capability exhibit dual transmission mechanisms. Multiple pathways exist in the process where digital transformation drives innovation performance improvement, with dynamic capabilities and innovation capabilities acting as core driving factors; (3) Environmental uncertainty significantly inhibits the enhancing effects of opportunity perception capability, learning absorption capability and innovation capability on innovation performance, while its moderating role in resource reconfiguration capability remains insignificant. Enterprises should therefore strengthen vigilance and real-time monitoring of external environment. The research has further expanded the pathways through which digital transformation drives innovation in Chinese manufacturing enterprises, and provided theoretical basis and practical implications for enterprise digital transformation.

Key words: digital transformation, innovation performance, dynamic capability, innovation capability, chain mediation

Li Xiaorong, Zhang Jinming, Liu Hongqin. Research on the impact of digital transformation on the innovation of Chinese manufacturing enterprises[J]. Science Research Management, 2025, 46(5): 1-12.

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Research on the impact of digital transformation on the innovation of Chinese manufacturing enterprises

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