Digital transformation, happiness-based leadership and artificial intelligence: rethinking organizational futures through happiness management

Purpose. This study aims to explore the interplay between digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI) in well-being, happiness-based leadership, Happiness Management and organizational sustainability. Grounded in transformational leadership theory of bass, it examines how digital tools and...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Cuesta Valiño, Pedro, Penelas Leguía, Azucena|||0000-0001-8928-3542, López Sanz, José María|||0000-0003-4584-1340, Loranca Valle, María Cristina|||0000-0002-1561-1221
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Fecha de publicación:2026
País:España
Institución:Universidad de Alcalá (UAH)
Repositorio:e_Buah Biblioteca Digital Universidad de Alcalá
Idioma:inglés
OAI Identifier:oai:dnet:ebuahbibliot::9742daa9bdc78aabfe1caac70394cea6
Acceso en línea:http://hdl.handle.net/10017/68948
https://dx.doi.org/10.1108/MRJIAM-07-2025-1792
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Leadership
Well-being
Artificial intelligence
Organizational sustainability
Digital transformation
Happiness management
Transformación digital
Inteligencia artificial
Bienestar
Sostenibilidad organizativa
Liderazgo
Empresa
Management science
Descripción
Sumario:Purpose. This study aims to explore the interplay between digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI) in well-being, happiness-based leadership, Happiness Management and organizational sustainability. Grounded in transformational leadership theory of bass, it examines how digital tools and emotionally intelligent leadership foster sustainable, happiness-driven workplaces? particularly in the Ibero-American and Spanish context. To strengthen conceptual coherence, the study also clarifies the transition from theoretical foundations to the development of the empirical model. Design/methodology/approach. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey was conducted with 3,728 employees across various sectors in Spain. Data were collected through a 17-item questionnaire using validated Likert-scale constructs. Partial least squares structural equation modeling via SmartPLS 4 was used to test reliability, validity and model fit. Findings All five hypotheses were supported. Digital transformation positively impacts happiness-based leadership, which, in turn, mediates its effect on Happiness Management. AI in well-being significantly predicts both Happiness Management and sustainability. Moreover, Happiness Management is a strong predictor of organizational sustainability Originality/value. This research offers an integrative model linking technology, leadership and employee happiness as drivers of sustainability. It redefines Happiness Management as a measurable strategic capability and positions happiness-based leadership as a vital bridge between AI-driven processes and human-centered workplaces. The study provides practical guidance for organizations aiming to align environmental, social and governance goals with digital innovation and emotional well-being? especially relevant in Ibero-American settings where human-centered and ethical management models are increasingly essential.