Absorptive capacity in the public sector: factors, processes, and consequences under institutional constraints

Abstract

Absorptive capacity is a relevant construct for value creation; however, empirical research applied to the public sector remains scarce. Accordingly, this study aims to conduct an integrative review (2010-2026) of absorptive capacity in the public sector, systematizing findings and research gaps into thematic categories and an integrative synthesis, based on documents collected from the Web of Science, Scopus, SPELL, and CAPES Journal Portal databases. Three main themes regarding research advances on the construct were identified: factors influencing absorptive capacity, conceptualization and modeling of absorptive capacity, and consequences of absorptive capacity. The results demonstrate the construct's versatility and the need to adapt it to the realities of the public sector. Furthermore, the review identifies factors influencing absorptive capacity and its impacts within the public sector, which can be utilized as a tool for public managers. Based on the three analytical themes identified, a synthetic model of absorptive capacity for the public sector is proposed. Finally, several suggestions for future research are presented, derived from the gaps identified in the analyzed literature.