Business Intelligence Management Studies

The Effect of Knowledge Management on Startup Performance with Emphasis on Strategic Flexibility and Digital Innovation

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Mohammad Faryabi 1
Samad Rahimiaghdam 1
Zahra Ranjbar Areshtanab 2
Zahra Ghorbanimoaddab 3

1 Associate Professor, Department of Management, Faculty of Economics and Management, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran

2 PhD Student of Strategic Management, Faculty of Economics and Management, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran Corresponding Author: zranjbar.areshtanab@gmail.com

3 PhD Student of Strategic Management, Faculty of Economics and Management, University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran

https://doi.org/10.22054/ims.2025.82721.2541
Abstract
In today's complex and competitive world, startups need strong and up-to-date knowledge management to identify opportunities and create innovation. In this regard, knowledge management can help startups create effective innovations by utilizing accurate information and using it in a timely manner and maintain their position in the competitive market. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine the impact of knowledge management on the performance of Iranian startups, focusing on the mediating role of digital innovation and the moderating role of strategic flexibility, which has not been examined in previous studies. This study is quantitative and of the type of applied studies. The statistical population includes 1321 startups nationwide. Data was collected through a standard questionnaire and through the opinions of startup managers. Data analysis was evaluated using structural equation modeling and partial least squares. The findings reveal that knowledge management has a direct and positive effect on the performance of startups. Additionally, digital innovation strengthens the relationship between knowledge management and performance as a mediator, while strategic flexibility positively moderates this relationship. This research contributes by introducing a new model to improve startup performance, demonstrating that digital innovation and strategic flexibility are critical factors in enhancing the effect of knowledge management on startup performance.

Keywords

Performance
Startup
Knowledge Management
Strategic Flexibility
Digital Innovation
Subjects

  1.  

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Business Intelligence Management Studies
Volume 14, Issue 53
Summer 2025
Pages 1-32

  • Receive Date 24 November 2024
  • Revise Date 25 February 2025
  • Accept Date 13 March 2025

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