Enablers of and barriers to digital innovation success: a comparative study of structured versus unstructured technology innovation environments in Kenya

Mutegi, Lorna

Enablers of and barriers to digital innovation success: a comparative study of structured versus unstructured technology innovation environments in Kenya

Thesis / Dissertation

2025

Publisher

University of Cape Town

Department

Department of Information Systems

Faculty

Faculty of Commerce

Abstract

Western theories dominate research on digital innovation in the Global South, neglecting contextual differences. Further, current research lacks focus on how structured versus unstructured innovation environments affect digital innovation success in these contexts. This study's investigation and findings centre on the phenomenon of ‘digital innovation success', focusing on digital startups and innovators in Kenya. The study has two objectives: to isolate the enablers of and barriers to digital innovation success in Kenya and to compare the success factors between structured versus unstructured innovation environment. This study uses multiple cases with semi-structured interviews, document reviews, and media analysis. Kleine's Choice Framework was used as the core theoretical lens, from which a conceptual model that guided data analysis was developed. The framework enabled visualisation of digital innovation success systemically and holistically as a development outcome that digital innovators in the Global South strive to achieve. The framework was also used to identify and evaluate the conditions (agency and structure resources) under which digital innovation success opportunities emerge within structured and unstructured environments, thereby revealing their differences and similarities. The study findings in respect of the first objective revealed Entrepreneurship Support Organisations and Innovation Intermediaries as the most influential contextual factor on digital innovation success in Kenya. Results for the second objective revealed structured environment as a significant enabler of success in Kenya but warns against assuming all structures are neutral. The study's first theoretical contribution is an explanation of contextual enablers of and barriers to digital innovation success in the Global South. Second, a theoretical demonstration of how Kleine's Choice Framework can be used as a lens for Information Systems research and for building a conceptual model. The study's first practical contribution is that digital innovators can make informed decisions on the innovation environment that best fits their strengths and startup needs. Second, government and policy makers can better tailor their support for each environment. Further, the study highlights the difference between startups and MSMEs, urging tailored policies for digital startups. Third, investors can leverage the study findings to invest strategically in digital innovation ventures in the Global South.