hide
Free keywords:
National Laboratories (NLs) function as pivotal strategic engines in national innovation systems. Addressing the core challenge of optimising mission fulfilment in current reforms, this study innovatively introduces the dynamic capability theory and employs necessity condition analysis (NCA) and Trajectory-based Qualitative Comparative Analysis (TJ-QCA) to systematically examine US NLs. The findings reveal: (a) No single capability stands as a direct and indispensable prerequisite for high mission fulfilment in US NLs, but early enhancement of research facilities operations yields the highest marginal returns. (b) Four synergistic pathways: Mission fulfilment derives from distinct configurations—Facility-driven, Factor agglomeration-driven, Strategic scientist-driven, and Coupled governance-driven. By tracing the evolutionary trajectories of these configurations, the study deciphers the ‘black box’ of the dynamic capability-driven process in mission-oriented R&D organisations. The findings advance strategic management theory while providing policymakers with evidence-based pathways to optimise mission fulfilment through capability reconfiguration.
Abstract:
-
