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Orchestrating role-specific capabilities in SaaS platform innovation: A mixed-methods study of digital solution designers

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  • Zhi Yang

    (Hunan University, Business School)

  • Yuanhan Gu

    (Hunan University, Business School)

  • Sai Xie

    (Hunan University, Business School)

Abstract

In platform-based innovation ecosystems, the effectiveness of intermediary roles—such as Digital Solution Designers (DSDs)—is increasingly critical for orchestrating value and ensuring successful SaaS platform development. Yet, research on the microfoundations of individual capability structures in such digital roles remains limited. This study adopts a mixed-methods approach to conceptualize and validate a role-specific capability framework for DSDs operating within enterprise SaaS ecosystems. Drawing on grounded theory and Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA), we identify four core capabilities: cross-domain requirement analysis, low-code platform application development, value co-creation understanding, and data-driven decision-making. We then employ the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to assess their relative weights and develop a competency scale. Regression analysis shows all four capabilities positively influence development performance, with data-driven decision-making exhibiting the strongest effect. These findings contribute to the digital platform literature by clarifying how hybrid digital roles support platform orchestration and innovation performance. The study offers practical guidance for talent development and capability assessment in platform-centric digital transformation initiatives.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhi Yang & Yuanhan Gu & Sai Xie, 2025. "Orchestrating role-specific capabilities in SaaS platform innovation: A mixed-methods study of digital solution designers," Electronic Markets, Springer;IIM University of St. Gallen, vol. 35(1), pages 1-23, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:elmark:v:35:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1007_s12525-025-00854-z
    DOI: 10.1007/s12525-025-00854-z
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    JEL classification:

    • O32 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Management of Technological Innovation and R&D
    • M15 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - IT Management
    • L25 - Industrial Organization - - Firm Objectives, Organization, and Behavior - - - Firm Performance
    • D83 - Microeconomics - - Information, Knowledge, and Uncertainty - - - Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness

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