The Effect of Digital Leadership, Technological Capability, and Collaborative Innovation Capability on Institution Core Performance Mediated by Open Innovation in Indonesian Higher Education Institutions

Authors

  • Johan Bina Nusantara University
  • Fergyanto E. Gunawan Bina Nusantara University
  • Rano Kartono Rahim Bina Nusantara University
  • Mohammad Hamsal Bina Nusantara University

Keywords:

Institutional performance, Open Innovation, Technological Capability, Digital Leadership, Collaborative Innovation Capabilities

Abstract

The higher education sector in Indonesia faces significant challenges, including a quality gap in university outcomes, increased competition, and rapid technological advancement. These conditions require Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to enhance their core performance through strategic capabilities. The research aims to analyze the influence of Digital Leadership (DL), Technological Capability (TC), and Collaborative Innovation Capability (CIC) on Institution Core Performance (ICP), mediated by Open Innovation (OI). The novelty lies in its focus on performance quality within Indonesian HEIs and the comprehensive mechanism through which capabilities drive OI, which subsequently enhances institutional performance. Methodologically, the research adopts a quantitative approach using an explanatory survey design. The sample consists of 42 leaders from private HEIs in LLDIKTI Region III holding "Excellent (A)" and "Very Good (B)" accreditation, selected through simple random sampling. Data are analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling-Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) with SmartPLS software.The results reveal several key findings. TC emerges as the most dominant factor, significantly driving OI and serving as a strong predictor of ICP. DL, while positively associated with OI and TC, shows no significant direct or indirect effect on ICP, as its effectiveness depends on alignment with a broader innovation strategy. CIC plays an essential indirect role by strengthening TC, which in turn enhances ICP through improved OI implementation. Overall, optimal institutional performance depends primarily on a strong TC foundation, supported by an integrated OI approach, with DL and CIC acting as key enablers.

Dimensions

Author Biographies

Johan, Bina Nusantara University

Management Department, BINUS Business School Doctor of Research in Management

Fergyanto E. Gunawan, Bina Nusantara University

Industrial Engineering Department, BINUS Graduate Program - Master of Industrial Engineering

Rano Kartono Rahim, Bina Nusantara University

Management Department, BINUS Business School Doctor of Research in Management

Mohammad Hamsal, Bina Nusantara University

Management Department, BINUS Business School Doctor of Research in Management

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Published

2026-04-23

How to Cite

[1]
J. Johan, F. E. Gunawan, R. K. Rahim, and M. Hamsal, “The Effect of Digital Leadership, Technological Capability, and Collaborative Innovation Capability on Institution Core Performance Mediated by Open Innovation in Indonesian Higher Education Institutions”, CommIT (Communication and Information Technology) Journal, vol. 20, no. 1, pp. 197–205, Apr. 2026.
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