The Exploration of Business Leaders' Experiences in Managing Technology Innovation and Behavioral Bias in Start-up Technology Companies in Indonesia: A Phenomenological Study on the Challenges and Successes of Implementing Digital Innovation

Abstract

The rapid advancement of digital technology has significantly reshaped industries, with start-up companies in particular facing challenges in managing technological innovation. While much research has been conducted on innovation management in various sectors, there remains a gap in understanding the specific experiences and challenges faced by business leaders within tech start-ups in Indonesia. This study aims to explore the lived experiences of business leaders in managing technological innovation in start-ups, addressing the question: How do business leaders in Indonesian tech start-ups navigate the challenges and successes of digital innovation? We employ a phenomenological approach to uncover the subjective experiences of these leaders, providing a deeper understanding of the personal and organizational dynamics involved. Data was gathered through in-depth interviews with 12 key leaders from three start-up technology companies located in Jakarta and Bandung, Indonesia, and analyzed thematically. The findings reveal that leaders face significant challenges in resource allocation, team resistance to change, and securing investment, yet successful innovation is often driven by cross-functional collaboration and an openness to failure. These insights contribute to a broader understanding of innovation management in dynamic environments and highlight the importance of leadership in fostering an innovation-supportive culture within start-ups.