The impact of big data analytics on innovation capability and sustainability performance of hotels: evidence from an emerging economy

Purpose This study aimed to examine the role of big data analytics capabilities (BDAC) in fostering organizational innovation capabilities and, consequently, in achieving economic, social and environmental sustainability. Design/methodology/approach Through the lens of dynamic capability theory, this study surveyed 115 hotels using purposive sampling to gain in-depth insights regarding the factors affecting organizational sustainability in the hospitality industry. The data analysis was conducted using partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Findings The findings reported a substantial impact of seven core dimensions (i.e. technology, data, basic resources, technological skills, managerial skills, organizational learning and data-driven culture) in building BDAC among hotels. Moreover, BDAC was also revealed to significantly influence innovation capabilities, positively impacting all three sorts of sustainability performance. Innovation capability also mediated the relationship between BDAC and all sustainability factors. Practical implications The findings will assist policymakers and practitioners in developing effective initiatives to enhance the adoption and implementation of data science and technologies, substantially contributing to the “National IR 4.0 Policy” and “Malaysia Digital Economy Blueprint” and achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). Originality/value The originality of this study is established by investigating the interplay between BDAC, innovation capability and sustainability performance, particularly in the context of the hotel industry, whereas the existing studies focus on exploring the advantages of BDA.