Enablers of the successful implementation of the strategy of technological innovation in higher education

Technological innovation has emerged as a formidable challenge for higher education institutions in the contemporary landscape. The present study explores the enablers of the successful implementation of technological innovation in Saudi Arabian higher education. We based this study’s conceptual framework on a rigorous literature review like Wu et al. (2002), Kihn (2010), and Packendorff et al. (2014). The study applied quantitative methods and collected 220 valid samples from employees of higher education institutions in Saudi Arabia through personal visits and online questionnaires. Employing structural equation modeling (SEM), the results of the study found a negative effect of project leadership (PL) on the implementation effectiveness of technological innovation (IETE). Further, the results demonstrate a positive significant impact of financial resources (FR) and top management style (TMS) on IETE. The study findings would provide valuable insights and evidence-based recommendations to practitioners and scholars in innovation management and organizational leadership. This study can inform strategic decisions, resource allocation, and leadership development within organizations, ultimately enhancing their ability to adapt to technological changes and leverage innovation for sustainable success.