<p>The dynamic capabilities view (DCV) is an approach to organizational strategy that explains how firms gain and sustain competitive advantage in dynamic markets. It is deeply rooted in a systems approach. However, the systems ontology is only implicit in the literature about the DCV, in the form of metaphorical or latent references. The purpose of this work is to analyze the theoretical framework of the DCV through the lens of a systems approach to expose the systems ontology that is implicit in the DCV. By means of an abductive thematic analysis, we show that the DCV is strongly founded on the systems ontology that is inherent in particular systems methodologies. We take advantage of these systems methodologies to put together an integrated, systemic framework of the theoretical foundations of the DCV. We argue that the systems methodologies can provide both theoretical and epistemological insight for researchers to advance the understanding about DCs. Furthermore, we defend that the systems methodologies can provide both epistemological and methodological support for managers to build DCs and to guide their evolution.</p>