Investigating the moderating role of technology turbulence and innovation capabilities in servant leadership, knowledge management and frugal innovation

PurposeThis research aims to investigate the impact of servant leadership on knowledge management and its subsequent connection to cost-saving innovation. The study further explored these relationships by examining the mediating roles of innovation capabilities and technological volatility.Design/methodology/approachThe research is applied in purpose and employs a descriptive-survey method for data collection. It follows a qualitative-quantitative approach, utilizing expert interviews in the qualitative phase. The sample consists of 35 managers and expert professors with knowledge management experience in universities and high-tech industries, selected through the snowball method. Data collected from Iranian organizations were analyzed using AMOS software.FindingsThe results revealed a positive correlation between servant leadership and knowledge management. Knowledge management demonstrated a significant positive relationship with cost-saving innovation. Additionally, technological volatility and innovation capabilities were identified as crucial factors influencing the connection between knowledge management and innovation, particularly in promoting frugality.Originality/valueWhile this research provides a comprehensive model, it acknowledges specific limitations that warrant further investigation. The study predominantly focused on Iranian organizations, suggesting an opportunity to broaden its scope to include diverse organizational perspectives from various cultural and geographical contexts. Moreover, a promising avenue for future research involves exploring entrepreneurial orientation as a potential mediating variable. Given its significant impact on organizational dynamics, introducing entrepreneurial orientation could enhance our understanding of its effects on both knowledge management and the promotion of frugal innovation. This expansion may illuminate the intricate interplay between entrepreneurial orientation, knowledge processes and innovative practices, contributing to a more sophisticated discussion on effective organizational strategies.