The mediating role of knowledge generation between training and development of human talent and innovative performance

Purpose: This study aims to examine the relationship between training and development (TD) of human talent and innovative performance (IP) while considering the mediating role of knowledge generation (KG). Design/methodology/approach: An explanatory design with latent variables was used, represented through a system of structural equations made up of observable and latent variables. The study had a sample of 1,572 companies belonging to the Colombian manufacturing industrial sector between 2017 and 2018. The instrument used in this research was the survey on technological development and innovation in the manufacturing industry EDIT IX. The statistical approach for estimating the parameters of the structural equation model (SEM) was the variance-based or PLS-SEM approach. Findings: The results link the existing theory on the relationship between TD of human talent and IP with the empirical evidence in Colombian manufacturing companies. In addition, the research highlights the role of KG in the relationship presented, which leads to the conclusion that it is an essential factor for any organization today. Originality/value: The findings obtained are practical use for the various agents involved in the management of manufacturing companies. At present, it is not only important for companies to generate good economic returns. It is necessary to focus on IP, which will favor the economic and non-economic firm performance, which involves the improvement in the quality of the products and services offered.