Impact of qualified gatekeepers on team absorptive capacity: the mediating role of knowledge combination capability

Purpose This study aims to examine direct effects of qualified team gatekeepers on absorptive capacity (AC), and the mediating roles combinative capabilities – knowledge integration capability (KIC) interteam coordination. Design/methodology/approach A social networking analysis was used analyze a unique data set collected from all members 32 Japanese research development (R&D) teams identify key individuals who perform daily gatekeeping functions. analyzed through partial least squares structural equation modeling with higher-order latent variables. Finally, cross-validation tests were holdout samples test model’s predictive validity. Findings Qualified directly contribute teams’ realized AC but not their potential AC. Furthermore, can improve absorb exploit external by facilitating consolidate knowledge, that is, its KIC Originality/value Unlike prior asks top managers gatekeepers, this network these vital individuals. provides new framework indicating how impact R&D examination both indirect paths abilities, two as mediators