The gist

This study explores how improvisation affects startup success by fostering serendipitous opportunities, especially under different levels of resource constraints and informal structures. Analyzing 326 U.S. startups, the research finds that improvisation is most effective in generating serendipity when resources are scarce. Additionally, serendipity leads to better performance when the organization has a flexible, informal structure. These findings suggest that improvisation can help startups discover new opportunities and gain a competitive edge, particularly when operating with limited resources and a loose structure.

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