Randomized trial examines digitalization's effect on business performance in the maritime sector, suggesting a need for human capital and CSR investments.
Key Points
This research aims to explore the relationship between digitalization, human capital, CSR, and business performance in the Spanish maritime sector.
Survey of 171 senior managers and functional heads in Spanish maritime firms.
Data analysis using the PLS–SEM method to assess relationships between constructs.
Refined measurement model distinguishing digitalization practices, human capital development, CSR activities, and business performance.
Digitalization positively affects human capital (p<0.01).
Human capital significantly enhances both CSR (p<0.01) and business performance (p<0.01).
The direct effect of digitalization on business performance is weak, but becomes significant through human capital and CSR mediators.