How management innovation drives disruptive outcomes: The role of strategic flexibility under environmental turbulence

This study investigates how management innovation promotes disruptive innovation in manufacturing firms, with a focus on the mediating role of strategic flexibility and the moderating role of environmental turbulence. Drawing on survey data from 316 Chinese manufacturing firms, the findings reveal that management innovation significantly fosters disruptive innovation both directly and indirectly through strategic flexibility. Moreover, environmental turbulence strengthens the positive relationship between strategic flexibility and disruptive innovation. By integrating internal organizational capabilities and external environmental conditions, this research enriches the understanding of how non-technological innovation contributes to disruptive outcomes. The findings offer actionable insights for firms seeking to enhance adaptability and pursue transformative innovation in dynamic markets. JEL Classification: M100, O310, O320, C120, D220, D230