Sports Businesses In The Era Of Technologıcal Change/Digitalization: The Effect Of Socıal Capital On Organizational Change

Teknolojik Değişim/Dijitalleşme Döneminde Spor İşletmeleri: Sosyal Sermayenin Örgütsel Değişime Etkisi

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of the social capital levels of employees working at the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality (İBB) on their perceptions of organisational change. The research was conducted within the framework of a correlational survey model based on a quantitative research approach. The study group consisted of a total of N=300 employees working in different units within the İBB. The study group was determined using convenience sampling, one of the purposive sampling methods, and individuals of different ages, seniority and education levels were selected to ensure participant diversity. The Social Capital Scale, consisting of two sub-dimensions (relational and cognitive) based on the theoretical framework of Nahapiet and Ghoshal (1998), and the Organisational Change Scale adapted from Vakola and Nikolaou (2005) were used as data collection tools. The construct validity of the scales was tested using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA); factor loadings were above .50, and goodness-of-fit indices (CFI=.99, GFI=.96, RMSEA=.071) were found to be acceptable. The reliability of the scales was assessed using Cronbach's alpha coefficients, and values above .80 were obtained for all subscales. Pearson correlation analysis and multiple linear regression analysis were used in the analysis of the data. The findings indicate positive and significant relationships between both relational and cognitive social capital and organisational change (r=.55 and r=.61, p<.01). According to the regression analysis results, social capital variables explain 52% of the variance in the perception of organisational change, with cognitive social capital being the strongest predictor of organisational change (β=.414, p<.001). The research findings reveal that social capital is a critical factor that facilitates the adaptation of Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality employees to change processes and supports change. At the conclusion of the study, it is recommended that municipal managers and human resources departments design programmes to strengthen social capital, that policymakers develop regulations that support employee commitment and a climate of trust, and that researchers conduct comparative and longitudinal studies in different municipalities.