Transformative technologies (TTs) induce an unprecedented level of complexity that profoundly challenges firms’ sources of competitive advantage. These technologies both act as external shocks that compel firms and their executives to enact resilient responses, and present new opportunities for firms in technologically turbulent environments. Consequently, firms must manage these shocks to balance the exploitation of their existing opportunities, their adaption based on novel technologies and the exploration of novel technological opportunities. The necessity of such balance is widely acknowledged. However, it creates substantial complexity for firms.

This project investigates the complexities and dynamics of how firms and their members react to TTs, with a focus on AI, and how they can build up resilience in these processes both at the firm and the individual level. Six research pillars, which employ a variety of methods to interact with actual firms and start ups, explore (1) individual dynamics of interacting with (gen)AI and (2) its use for creativity, (3) variation in firm level AI adoption, (4) expertise and adaptability in firms for understanding skill requirements in times of TTs, (5) firm resilience, planning and adaptation under TT uncertainty and (6) the impact of start-up management teams.

The project will collaborate with important players in the Munich entrepreneurship ecosystem, including the TUM Venture Labs AI, and will advance the TransforM goal of enhancing understanding of the complexity and resilience dynamics connected to the emergence of TTs.