“Artificial Intelligence Adoption and Implementation in Palestinian Context: The Moderating Role of Strategic Leadership and the Perceived Attributes of Innovation” رسالة دكتوراة

Abstract

Purpose: This study examines the relationships between ICT readiness factors, strategic leadership, and AI adoption within Palestinian MSMEs. It highlights the moderating roles of strategic leadership and perceived attributes of innovation in resource-constrained environments. Methodology: A quantitative, cross-sectional approach was employed, involving 520 participants from various MSMEs in the West Bank of Palestine. Data was collected via structured questionnaires and analyzed using PLS-SEM and SPSS to evaluate hypotheses and validate constructs. Result: the findings indicate that ICT readiness, encompassing hardware, software, infrastructure, and human resources, are significant drivers of AI adoption (𝛽 = 0.140, 𝑡 = 2.544, and p-value of 0.006). Strategic leadership demonstrates a dual impact: positively influencing software and human resource alignment 𝛽 = 0.114, 𝛽 = 0.129 respectively, while negatively moderating infrastructure (𝛽 = -0.129 ) and hardware readiness (𝛽 = -0.072 ). Perceived innovation attributes like relative advantage and compatibility further enhance ICT readiness’ influence on AI adoption (𝛽 = 0.146, 𝑡 = 2.784, and p-value of 0.003). Practical Implications: Policymakers and leaders in resource-constrained contexts can leverage these findings to design comprehensive ICT strategies, promote balanced leadership approaches, and address barriers to AI adoption. Originality: This study contributes to the literature on the adoption of technology by focusing on a politically complex and resource-limited setting, offering actionable insights for enhancing MSMEs' innovation capacity through AI adoption.