Intellectual capital, knowledge management and enterprise innovation performance: a case study of manufacturing enterprises
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33216/1998-7927-2026-302-4-130-138Keywords:
intellectual capital, knowledge management, corporate innovation performance, partial mediation effectAbstract
In today’s knowledge economy, research into the relationship between intellectual capital and the innovative performance of enterprises, as well as the role of knowledge management as a connecting link in this process, is becoming particularly relevant. At the same time, most academic works examine this issue at a sector-wide level, overlooking the specific characteristics of manufacturing enterprises, which form the backbone of the national economy and require urgent technological modernisation. There is a lack of empirical research in which knowledge management acts as a mediator between intellectual capital and innovation performance specifically within the manufacturing sector. Filling this gap is the objective of this study.
The study developed and empirically tested a conceptual model of ‘intellectual capital – knowledge management – innovation performance’, in which knowledge management acts as an intermediary. The empirical data were drawn from a questionnaire survey of 172 manufacturing enterprises. The data were analysed using the SPSS and AMOS software packages, employing correlation analysis, reliability and validity testing of the scales, and structural equation modelling.
The results showed that all three dimensions of intellectual capital—human, structural and relational—have a statistically significant direct positive impact on the innovation performance of manufacturing enterprises. Structural capital demonstrates the most pronounced direct effect, highlighting the importance of corporate culture and internal processes for generating innovation. Furthermore, intellectual capital significantly improves knowledge management processes, which, in turn, act as a powerful driver of innovation performance. When knowledge management is included in the model as a mediator, the direct influence of intellectual capital components is maintained, though its strength is partially reduced, indicating the presence of a partial mediating effect. The model’s fit indices meet the normative requirements, confirming its adequacy to the empirical data.
Based on the analysis conducted, practical recommendations have been formulated for managers of manufacturing enterprises, aimed at prioritising the development of structural capital, increasing investment in human capital, strengthening external partnerships and improving knowledge management systems. The comprehensive implementation of the proposed measures will contribute to a sustained increase in the innovative performance and competitiveness of manufacturing enterprises in the context of a dynamic knowledge economy.
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