Knowledge absorption capacity and its influence on the generation of innovation in a health ecosystem

Authors

• Luciano Vieira Universidade Regional do Noroeste do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul - UNIJUI https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6590-5730
• Jorge Oneide Sausen Universidade Regional do Noroeste do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul - UNIJUI https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3684-1410
• Gloria Charão Ferreira Universidade Regional do Noroeste do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul - UNIJUÍ https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9329-2510
• Lidiane Kasper Universidade Regional do Noroeste do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul - UNIJUÍ https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6752-1634

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.17058/025wmv03

Abstract

This article aims to understand the process of knowledge absorption and its influence in terms of innovation generated, in a health ecosystem. As for the methodology, it is characterized as empirical, qualitative and descriptive research. The results found show that the absorptive capacity of knowledge in the health ecosystem of Passo Fundo (RS) is developed through a set of processes and mechanisms, with the three capacities (recognition, assimilation and application) being present and made explicit in clearly and objectively with the constituent organizations of the ecosystem, as they also appear due to the mechanisms of cooperation and relationships. As for the typology of innovation resulting from absorptive capacity, it is primarily focused on business processes and, in terms of degree, incremental predominates. The main findings of this research highlight the importance of the role of knowledge absorption capacity and inter-organizational relationships for the innovation process of the health ecosystem.