Board engagement with digital technologies: A resource dependence framework

This exploratory qualitative inquiry examines the perspectives of 26 board members in medium-sized, privately held companies operating United Kingdom. The study question investigates how digital technologies (DT)1 are impacting on director capabilities. Different members’ experiences from their own examined, with attention capturing influence way that directors work. Thematic analysis offers a rigorous approach to and enables articulating deeper meaningful understandings individual experiences. Findings presented as framework, indicate DT impacts all directors’ capabilities four major aspects: gathering, interpreting sharing information; stewardship; blue-sky strategizing; scoping predictive strategic priorities. Theoretical contribution is Resource Dependence Theory (RDT) an outcome-focused lens, which best explains firm’s interest technological advantage through outcomes. In conclusion, practical insights for regulators highlighted.