A review of dynamic capabilities evolution—based on organisational routines, entrepreneurship and improvisational capabilities perspectives

The aims of this study were to better integrate various schools of definition of dynamic capabilities theory since its emergence and to determine the evolution mechanism of dynamic capabilities by conducting a systematic literature review using bibliometrics and content analysis. The literature review identified multiple perspectives regarding the evolution of dynamic capabilities, including organisational routines, entrepreneurship, and ‘improvisational capabilities’. A micro-evolution framework of ‘individuals, groups and organisations’ was obtained from these perspectives and then aggregated into an ‘adapt-innovate-respond’ analysis framework of dynamic capabilities evolution. The analytical framework forms a spiral model of dynamic capabilities demonstrating the relationship between the evolution of dynamic capabilities and enterprises. This study integrates multiple perspectives on dynamic capabilities, establishes a comprehensive analysis framework, and clarifies the essential connotations of dynamic capability evolution. Finally, suggestions for future research on the evolution of dynamic capabilities are provided.