The impact of knowledge management practice on digital financial innovation: the role of bank managers

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to examine the impact of knowledge management functions (acquisition, integration and utilization) on digital financial innovation through the moderating role of managers’ demographic characteristics (age, sex, education, experience and position) in commercial banks operating in Lebanon. Design/methodology/approach To accomplish this aim, a conceptual framework based on knowledge-based theory and literature review was developed the data for this research was collected through a self-administered questionnaire with 181 respondents. The target respondents were managers of commercial banks in Lebanon. Findings The empirical findings of the study suggest that the practice of knowledge management functions practice has a positive and significant relationship with digital financial innovation. The findings also provide support for the moderating effect of only two demographic characteristics of bank managers; experience and position on the relationship between knowledge management and digital financial innovation in commercial banks in Lebanon. Practical implications The managers of commercial banks in Lebanon and similar countries could use the study findings to better understand the practices of knowledge management in the banks and also the skills acquired or existing in the individuals working in their organizations and is also helpful to enhance their level of digital financial innovations. Originality/value This study has investigated the unexplored impact of knowledge management on digital financial innovation via moderating role of managers' demographic characteristics among commercial banks operating in Lebanon as a developing country.