Big Data Capabilities as Strategic Assets: Enterprise Value Creation Mechanisms in 33 Studies

Background: Big data capability is a core strategic asset for enterprises, but existing studies on its relationship with enterprise value creation are fragmented, with inconsistent effect magnitudes and boundary conditions. This meta-analysis synthesized empirical evidence to clarify their overall relationship and the moderating roles of antecedent, mediating, and outcome variables. Methods: A systematic search (ending July 2025) across seven databases (CNKI, Web of Science, etc.) identified thirty-three empirical studies meeting criteria (clear sample size, correlation coefficients). Following PRISMA 2020 and OSF registration, two researchers extracted data independently. CMA 3.0 was used with a random effects model; effect sizes (Pearson’s r), heterogeneity (Q, I2), and publication bias (funnel plots, Egger’s test) were analyzed. Results: Involving 14,993 samples, big data capability showed a moderately significant positive correlation with enterprise outcomes (r = 0.486, 95% CI:0.408–0.557, p < 0.001) with high heterogeneity (I2 = 93.502). Subgroup analyses revealed: learning orientation (r = 0.883) as the strongest antecedent; organizational agility (r = 0.631) and innovation (r = 0.595) as significant mediators (resource integration not significant); enterprise innovation performance (r = 0.730) as the top outcome. No publication bias was found (Egger’s p = 0.284). Conclusions: Big data capability positively impacts enterprises, with learning orientation and innovation performance as key moderators. Enterprises should prioritize a learning culture and leverage organizational agility. Future research needs diverse samples and longitudinal designs to explore causality.