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Non-hierarchic leadership collaboration: Exploring the adoption of AI-driven social networking for addressing social challenges in an extra-organizational environment

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  • Basilio Ruiz de Apodaca, Oihana
  • Montes Gan, Vicente J
  • Moreno-Brieva, Fernando

Abstract

The literature has explained how technology adoption and usage is affected by many socio-technical issues and how the emergence and evolution of networks is key for innovation. However, empirical analysis of interactions between leadership networks and new artificial intelligence-driven technologies is scarce. To shed new light on leadership communities around the adoption of an existing and a new technology related to leadership networks, we analyze the level of socio-digital engagement of a non-hierarchical network of individuals associated with a prestigious Spanish Foundation in the context of pressing social challenges. We apply a methodology that combines quantitative and qualitative methods, sentiment analysis, and insider research to analyze the strategy applied by the Foundation. Our main results show that the existence of strong, trust-based relationships and the introduction of a well-designed AI-based tool may only have a limited effect on the adoption of technology and the evolution of a network. Specifically, in the case studied, the network of leaders around the Foundation comprised peer leadership networks but not collective leadership networks focused on action on social challenges.

Suggested Citation

  • Basilio Ruiz de Apodaca, Oihana & Montes Gan, Vicente J & Moreno-Brieva, Fernando, 2025. "Non-hierarchic leadership collaboration: Exploring the adoption of AI-driven social networking for addressing social challenges in an extra-organizational environment," Technology in Society, Elsevier, vol. 81(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:teinso:v:81:y:2025:i:c:s0160791x24003579
    DOI: 10.1016/j.techsoc.2024.102809
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