DIGITAL LEADERSHIP COMPETENCIES THROUGH A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW: BRIDGING EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND ORGANIZATIONAL SUCCESS

Abstract

Digital leadership competencies are critical for fostering educational development and achieving organizational success in an increasingly digital world. However, a comprehensive understanding of the competencies required for effective digital leadership remains fragmented. This systematic literature review addresses this gap by synthesizing insights from existing research to identify key digital leadership competencies and their implications for educational and organizational contexts. Following the PRISMA framework, a rigorous search was conducted in the Scopus and Web of Science databases, yielding 26 primary studies. The selection process involved screening titles, abstracts, and full texts to ensure the inclusion of high-quality, relevant studies. The review highlights essential competencies such as strategic vision, socio-technical integration, adaptability, digital literacy, and ethical governance, collectively empowering leaders to navigate the complexities of digital transformation. Numerical analysis revealed that 85% of the studies emphasized the pivotal role of adaptability and collaborative practices, while 78% underscored the significance of ethical and inclusive leadership in promoting equity and innovation. The findings demonstrate that digital leadership competencies drive organizational performance and enhance educational outcomes by fostering collaboration, resource optimization, and resilience. The review concludes that a multifaceted approach, combining structured frameworks, targeted training, and systemic support, is essential for developing these competencies. This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge by offering a consolidated perspective on digital leadership, providing actionable insights for educators, policymakers, and organizational leaders aiming to bridge educational development and organizational success in the digital age.