Empowering Organizations for the Digital Era: Unlocking the Potential of ICT Utilization and Organizational Learning

Abstract

The purpose of this study has been to provide a comprehensive investigation into the relationship between ICT and OP by considering multiple aspects of ICT utilization and organizational learning, innovative capabilities, and operational excellence as mediators. By examining the post-COVID-19 context and focusing on the finance-, technology-, and professional services industries in Norway, this research aims to offer managers and business leaders an updated understanding of how to optimize ICT utilization and enhance OP within a technologically advanced business environment. Data was gathered through a questionnaire-based survey that was sent out to executives and managers in 1007 Norwegian organizations. The total of 312 responses was completed and included in the analysis.

A PLS-SEM analysis was conducted in order to investigate the relationship between the study’s variables. Our findings reveal that the relationship between ICT utilization and organizational performance is mediated by organizational learning. The relationship between organizational learning and organizational performance was further mediated by innovative capabilities and operational excellence. Furthermore, ICT knowhow, information sharing, and ICT collaboration emerged as crucial aspects of ICT utilization for driving both organizational learning and organizational performance. While this study contributes to the literature and offers valuable implications for managers, it is important to acknowledge limitations, including the subjective nature of performance measurements and the use of measures that have not been previously validated.