The Impact of Digital Leadership on Improving Decision-Making Quality Using Artificial Intelligence Technologies: An Applied Study in Private Universities in Baghdad – Al-Farabi University as a Case Study

Abstract

This research aimed to measure the impact of digital leadership on improving the quality of decision-making using artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in private universities in Baghdad, with Al-Farabi University serving as a case study. The research stemmed from the crucial role of digital leadership in guiding technological transformation within academic institutions, particularly given the increasing reliance on data, smart systems, and AI applications to support administrative and academic decisions. The study employed a descriptive-analytical approach, utilizing a questionnaire as the primary data collection tool. The questionnaire was administered to a sample of 112 employees at Al-Farabi University. The independent variable, digital leadership, was measured through two dimensions: digital vision and digital empowerment. The dependent variable was measured through the quality of decision-making using AI technologies. Reliability results showed high Cronbach's alpha coefficients for all dimensions, with the overall reliability coefficient for the questionnaire reaching 0.95, indicating the instrument's consistency and validity for analysis. Furthermore, multiple linear regression analysis revealed a significant impact of digital vision and digital empowerment on the quality of decision-making, with a coefficient of determination of 0.66. This suggests that the dimensions of digital leadership explain 66% of the variance in decision-making quality. The research concluded that digital leadership represents a crucial administrative approach to improving university decision-making when linked to a clear vision, effective digital empowerment, and a technological infrastructure capable of supporting the use of artificial intelligence.