FOSTERING ORGANIZATIONAL INNOVATION AND GOAL ACHIEVEMENT IN THAI LOCAL ADMINISTRATION: A MIXED-METHODS ANALYSIS

Apikanittha Nalao

doi:10.14456/apsr.2026.8

Authors

Apikanittha NALAO Faculty of Liberal Arts and Science, Nakhon Phanom University, Thailand

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14456/apsr.2026.8

Keywords:

Organizational Innovation, Local Administrative Organizations, Collaborative Networking, Digital Governance, Public Sector Innovation

Abstract

This study systematically investigates the critical determinants driving organizational innovation and goal achievement within Local Administrative Organizations (LAOs) in Thailand’s upper northeastern provinces. Addressing the growing demand for public-sector adaptability in an era of digital transformation, the research uses a robust mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys of 381 local personnel with in-depth qualitative interviews with eight municipal executives. The empirical findings reveal a remarkably high overall readiness for innovation among these rural and semi-rural administrations. Multiple linear regression analysis shows that effective use of digital technology, flexible governance structures, strategic resource allocation, and collaborative networking significantly drive organizational innovation. Notably, collaborative networking emerged as the most influential statistical predictor of innovative capacity. Furthermore, while quantitative results suggest that innovative leadership and organizational culture are not direct statistical drivers, qualitative insights clearly show their vital role as foundational enablers that sustain structural reforms. Ultimately, this research underscores that fostering authentic public-sector innovation requires the systemic integration of digital transformation, inter-organizational partnerships, and adaptive governance, providing actionable strategies to enhance local administrative efficiency and citizen-centered public service delivery fundamentally.

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