Competitive Advantage Strategy with Core Competency as an Intervening Variable Moderated by Ombudsman Assessment in Regional Government Organizations in West Papua Province

Abstract

This study aims to explore the strategy of achieving competitive advantage through the development of core competencies as an intervening variable, moderated by the Ombudsman’s assessment within regional government organizations (Organisasi Perangkat Daerah) in West Papua Province. Using a qualitative approach with a literature study and library research method, this research synthesizes theoretical perspectives and empirical findings from previous studies to build a conceptual framework. Competitive advantage is increasingly important for public sector organizations to deliver high-quality services, especially in areas undergoing governance reforms such as West Papua. Core competencies are positioned as the mediating capability that transforms organizational resources into strategic advantages, while the Ombudsman’s assessment acts as a moderating factor that reinforces accountability and service quality. Data sources include academic journals, books, government reports, and previous Ombudsman evaluations related to public service standards. The findings indicate that strong core competencies — including innovation, service orientation, and managerial capabilities — significantly enhance the ability of local government organizations to achieve a sustainable competitive edge. Moreover, the presence of regular assessments and recommendations from the Ombudsman strengthens the relationship between core competencies and organizational performance. This study provides theoretical insights and practical implications for policymakers in designing competency development programs aligned with external accountability mechanisms. Future research is recommended to conduct empirical validations using mixed methods to test the proposed conceptual framework