The Impact of Innovation on Sustainable Development with the Mediating Role of Information and Communication Technology in Iran

Objective: This study investigates the impact of innovation on sustainable development in Iran, emphasizing the mediating role of information and communication technology (ICT) in contemporary society.
Methods: The research adopted a descriptive–analytical approach with an applied orientation. Data were collected through library research and researcher‑designed questionnaire distributed online to reduce human error and increase participation. A quota sampling method was used five major Iranian cities: Tehran, Mashhad, Isfahan, Tabriz, and Shiraz. Electronic distribution enabled broader access and efficient response management. The study examined the relationship between innovation, ICT, and sustainable development within Iranian organizations. Data were obtained from 310 managers and senior administrative experts in public and private sectors. Structural equation modeling (SEM) using Smart‑PLS software was applied to test the proposed relationships.
Results: The findings indicate that innovation through ICT has a strong effect on the economic dimension of sustainable development (f² = 0.588). The effect of innovation on the environmental dimension is moderate (f² = 0.316), while its effect on the social dimension is relatively weak (f² = 0.215). The coefficient of determination (R²) for the relationship between innovation and ICT was 0.715, indicating that the model explains 71.5% of the variance in ICT. Moreover, the indirect effects of innovation through ICT on the economic and environmental dimensions were 0.156 and 0.217, showing full mediation, while indirect effect on the social dimension was 0.153, indicating partial mediation.
Conclusions: The results confirm that ICT plays a crucial mediating role between innovation and sustainable development, particularly strengthening environmental sustainability outcomes.