Big data analytics capability and sustainability in company innovation

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the importance of big data analytics capability (BDAC), knowledge management (KM), corporate sustainability strategy (CSS) and sustainability design (SD) variables that affect the innovation performance (IP) of companies in the information technology (IT) sector. Taking these variables into consideration, the authors aim to highlight the key factors necessary for the sustainability and success of companies in the IT sector.Design/methodology/approachAs a result of this research, a model was developed and a quantitative analysis technique was adopted. By applying PLS- structural equation modeling, the data were analyzed in the SmartPLS 4.0 program and focused on the population of companies in the IT sector. Middle and senior managers working in these companies were reached. The main reason for choosing this sector is that the variables in the research model are very important in the IT sector.FindingsThe analysis results are supported by the hypotheses that BDAC, information management, CSS and SD have positive effects on the IP of companies in the IT sector.Research limitations/implicationsIn terms of research limitations, data was collected by survey method from companies operating in the IT sector in Istanbul, ensuring that participation was voluntary. Because Istanbul is the most developed city in Turkey, and hence where IT companies are located, the sample population consists of companies in this city. It is recommended that future research should develop the research model, taking this limited situation into account and contributing to the literature by collecting data from companies in different sectors by using the comparison method.Practical implicationsTo benefit from the potential of big data, it can be predicted that companies in the IT sector should strengthen their infrastructure, increase their performance by better managing their knowledge and experience, realize innovations by achieving sustainability goals and create an environmentally friendly image by increasing the sustainability of their products/services and thus become a company that gains an innovative competitive advantage. Considering these variables collectively can help companies in the IT sector to be more efficient and sustainable.Social implicationsBecause the studies in the literature do not have sufficient empirical findings in examining the relationships between variables, companies are offered a limited perspective on how they should approach big data initiatives. Therefore, in addition to research conducted in different sectors and different types of companies, examining the impact of BDAC as independent variables and sustainability and KM as mediator variables in companies in the IT sector will contribute to the theory.Originality/valueThere are many studies examining the relationship between BDAC and information management. However, examining the mediation variable effect of sustainability, which is one of the three goals of businesses, together with these variables, is important in terms of contributing to the literature. Because we are in the age of digitalization, companies are now renewing and developing strategies for the future. We can see data science, innovation, information and sustainability as the most important concepts of these strategies. Therefore, this study uses original research that can be referenced for both academics and companies.