Learning to Thrive: Organisational Learning in the Business Landscape of Algeria

Organisational learning is highly important in changing environments, especially in the context of technological and social advances. This paper seeks to examine the determinants that significantly impact organisational learning within Algerian small and medium enterprises (SMEs). For this purpose, a hypothetico-deductive approach was adopted and surveys with managers and executives from 100 SMEs situated in Bejaia province in Northern Algeria were conducted. The research model was constructed using structural equation modelling, employing the partial least squares method (PLS-SEM). The insights derived from this study underscore a crucial finding: within the spectrum of the sampled SMEs, organisational learning is fundamentally rooted in experiential knowledge. This intrinsic learning process is notably fortified by the establishment of a pervasive learning culture and active participation from both management and employees. These results not only contribute to the scholarly discourse on organisational learning, but also have practical implications for enhancing the adaptive capacity of SMEs. The importance of the research lies in the development of an inventory of the reality of organisational learning in the Algerian context. This will provide insights for future research and establish a foundation upon which solutions can be considered to support the owner-manager in promoting organisational learning.