Modeling Strategies for Enhancing Research Productivity: Insights from Human Capital Investment

The shift toward a post-capitalist, knowledge-based economy has created an increasingly competitive academic environment. Issues surrounding faculty research productivity have come under extensive debate, often referred to as the "productivity puzzle." This study aimed to investigate research practices that can predict high levels of faculty research productivity. The study employed Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) within a descriptive survey and correlational research framework. A questionnaire was used to collect data from 441 researchers in Saudi universities who are ranked among the top 2% of the world's leading scientists according to Stanford University’s lists. Participants were selected using a stratified random sampling method. The SEM analysis identified the practices most contributing to enhanced research productivity, ranked in descending order as follows: Knowledge exchange emerged as the most significant and impactful practice, followed by technical and organizational capabilities. University-based research and innovation centers ranked third in influence, while investment in human capital came fourth. Leadership and governance were ranked fifth, and strategic priorities had the least impact. Other practices, including impact measurement and value chains, integration with the business sector, and support and funding, showed a positive but statistically non-significant impact, suggesting that their influence on research productivity has yet to reach a tangible level.