The linkage between organizational learning and strategic renewal. A case study within the fishing industry

Abstract

This study attempts to investigate the linkage between organizational learning and strategic renewal. The investigation itself is performed as a single case study within the fishing industry and has been embedded at the company that has undergone many strategic actions in recent years. The study mainly focuses on organizational learning, strategic renewal, and the strategic process itself. This thesis addressed the research question of what is the linkage between organizational learning and strategic renewal. The research will focus on organizational learning and integration of strategy trough empirical research that investigates the process of strategic renewal utilizing a framework of organizational learning. The study also demonstrates the fundamental processes that forge the tension between exploration and exploitation, showing the challenge of strategic renewal. Therefore, the study shows how an organization makes use of the theory behind organizational learning and strategic renewal to be sustainable and thriving in such a rapidly changing environment, as well as an importance of knowledge acquiring from external resources in order to take appropriate actions to comply with firm’s environment and gain a competitive advantage. Also a new model on how organizational learning occurs and flows through a company and its linkage to strategic renewal was elaborated. The study has theoretical and practical implications and suggestions for further research.