A Conceptual Examination of Digital Technology Adoption as a Mediator Between Digital Leadership and Innovation in Tourism Services
Authors
Kasma Manggala,
University of Widya Mataram
Antonius Satria Hadi
University of Widya Mataram
Bhenu Artha
University of Widya Mataram
Utami Tunjung Sari
University of Widya Mataram
Abstract
This conceptual paper examines the mediating role of digital technology adoption in the relationship between digital leadership and tourism service innovation. Drawing on the Dynamic Capabilities Theory (DCT) and Resource-Based View (RBV), the paper proposes that digital leaders who possess competencies in technological vision, data-driven decision-making, and change orchestration enhance tourism enterprises' capability to adopt digital technologies, which subsequently drives service innovation. The proposed conceptual model suggests three direct pathways: (1) digital leadership directly influences tourism service innovation, (2) digital leadership facilitates digital technology adoption, and (3) digital technology adoption mediates the relationship between digital leadership and tourism service innovation. Grounded in empirical evidence from tourism and hospitality sectors, this paper contributes to strategic management and tourism innovation literature by providing a theoretical framework that illuminates how leadership competencies translate into tangible innovation outcomes through technological enablement. The study has implications for tourism destination managers, hospitality leaders, and policymakers seeking to enhance their organizations' capacity to deliver innovative services in an increasingly digital marketplace.
