TRANSFORMING LEADERSHIP: THE INFLUENCE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND TECHNOLOGY ON CONTEMPORARY MANAGEMENT PRACTICES

Abstract

This study examines the transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) and project management technology in redefining modern leadership approaches. The central concern is the growing complexity of leadership in technologically advanced settings where conventional decision-making frameworks are insufficient. The study reveals a gap in the existing body of knowledge on how digital technologies and artificial intelligence jointly impact team collaboration, flexibility, and leadership effectiveness. Organizational case studies, expert interviews, and a thorough literature review were employed in a qualitative research approach. Six companies and fifteen experts who have used digital technologies or artificial intelligence in leadership settings provided data. NVivo software's theme analysis helped to analyze qualitative data. The results show that although project management tools increase team collaboration and workflow efficiency, artificial intelligence significantly enhances strategic decision-making through predictive analytics—nevertheless, obstacles such as ethical questions, digital skill shortages, and opposition to change remain. Companies that support inclusive leadership, ethical AI governance, and digital training courses tend to experience better transitions and a higher technological return on investment. The research concludes that in the digital era, good leadership requires a blend of human-centric ideals and technical competence. It provides a theoretical and pragmatic framework for incorporating artificial intelligence into leadership paradigms, emphasizing ethical responsibility, teamwork, and creativity.