A three-stage framework of digital ecosystem orientation of hub firms: insights from a qualitative meta-analysis

Purpose This study examines how hub firms in the digital innovation ecosystem utilize their digital ecosystem orientation (DEO) to drive sustainable evolution during the twin transition of digital technologies and sustainability principles. The study defines DEO and its stage-based features, with a goal of building a three-stage theoretical framework. Due to differences in samples, theoretical perspectives, and research contexts, previous studies rarely focused on DEO’s dynamic development, resulting in fragmented findings that lack theoretical dialogue and knowledge accumulation. Design/methodology/approach This study employs a qualitative meta-analysis to synthesize 25 studies and 39 cases from diverse countries and industries and systematically examine DEO’s dimensions and evolutionary trajectory. The antecedents–process–consequences framework is utilized to analyze hub firms’ strategic adaptation mechanisms across ecosystem stages. Findings This study’s findings reveal that a hub firm’s DEO comprises three core dimensions: modular design, digital identity shaping, and ecological institutional norms. Its evolution is driven by external digital economy contexts and internal enterprise transformation needs. The results further identify a three-stage evolutionary pattern. In the first phase, hub firms adopt a dominant DEO using center empowerment to aggregate resources and build the ecosystem’s foundation. In the second phase, hub firms shift to a cooperative DEO that emphasizes bilateral cooperation and resource sharing to strengthen innovation capacity. At maturity, hub firms pursue a multilateral DEO that engages multiple stakeholders to reconstruct resources, expand innovation, and establish cross-industry linkages. Originality/value This study is the first to systematically define core DEO attributes and develop a framework that captures the dynamic nature of digital innovation ecosystems. Furthermore, DEO expands strategic orientation and ecosystem theories, guiding enterprises to implement phased strategic actions in complex digital environments. These insights offer practical guidance for addressing both digital innovation and sustainability.