Identifying Influential Factors and Designing a Knowledge Management Model with a Human Resource Empowerment Approach in Bank Sepah

Abstract

This study aimed to identify the key factors influencing knowledge management and to develop a comprehensive model linking knowledge management practices to human resource empowerment and human capital outcomes in Bank Sepah. This applied descriptive–analytical study employed a mixed-methods design. In the qualitative phase, data were collected through semi-structured interviews with 20 academic and banking experts selected through theoretical sampling and analyzed using thematic analysis in MAXQDA software. Subsequently, Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) was used to determine the hierarchical and causal relationships among the extracted themes. In the quantitative phase, the proposed model was validated through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) using a set of research hypotheses derived from the qualitative findings. The thematic analysis generated 326 initial codes, 21 sub-themes, four main themes—knowledge management system, empowering organizational platforms, human resource empowerment, and human capital outcomes—and one contextual theme, namely the institutional and structural context of Iran’s banking system. ISM results revealed that the institutional and structural context represents the foundational layer influencing all other dimensions, while the knowledge management system functions as the primary operational driver. Structural equation modeling demonstrated significant positive effects of the knowledge management system on empowering organizational platforms and human resource empowerment. Empowering organizational platforms significantly enhanced employee empowerment, and human resource empowerment exerted a positive and significant effect on human capital outcomes. Furthermore, the mediating role of empowerment in translating knowledge management into strategic outcomes was confirmed. The findings indicate that knowledge management contributes to sustainable competitive advantage, innovation, and improved human capital performance when supported by knowledge-oriented leadership, a learning culture, technological infrastructure, and enabling organizational mechanisms. The proposed context–process–outcome model offers a strategic framework for strengthening human capacities and achieving sustainable organizational performance in Bank Sepah.