The competitive intelligence and the development of dynamic capabilities in organizations

Abstract

This article has two objectives. The first is to study the concepts of Competitive Intelligence and Dynamic Capabilities, aiming to verify if the stages of the competitive intelligence cycle can constitute stimulating elements for Dynamic Capabilities in organizations. The second goal is to understand how the competitive intelligence process is dealt with in medium- and large-sized companies in Brazil, grounded on opinions by specialists on the topic (scholars, researchers and consultants). For its consecution, besides the literature review on the subject, information was collected by means of in-depth interviews and, seeking triangulation of data, a comparative research was conducted on similar studies. It is a qualitative research that applies content analysis as its technique for investigation. The study supports that the routines in the stages of the competitive intelligence cycle and the abilities required for its operationalization foster the mobilization of Dynamic Capabilities in organizations. Competitive Intelligence, through a suitable development of the activities established in its phases, promotes the perception for change (sensing) and provides the necessary intelligence for the acquiring of the knowledge which will be the foundation for action (seizing), thus contributing for the continuous reinvention of the business (transforming). On the other hand, evidences suggest that Competitive Intelligence practices are still in their embryonic stages of application in Brazilian companies, and therefore need efforts for further qualification and consolidation.