This study analyzed the impact of learning organization and commitment on the performance of research and development organizations in Thailand. The research used a structural equation model based on an extensive review of relevant literature. The population and samples were drawn from full-time researchers in two science and technology organizations under the Thai Ministry of Science and Technology. A questionnaire survey was used to collect empirical data. The model fit was analyzed using the confirmatory factor analysis technique. The results showed that learning organization had a direct effect on organizational commitment and performance. However, commitment had no direct effect on organizational performance. Based on these results; scientific, and technology and development policy and planning should consider applying learning organization in research organizations. © ۲۰۱۸ Kasetsart University. Publishing services by Elsevier B.V. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/ 4.0/).

Introduction

Economic development and competitiveness in countries around the world are increasing. To secure comparative advantages, such as, technological competitiveness based on changing consumption, and integration into single markets, companies make decisions, operate their businesses, and create or invent new products and manufacturing processes based on scientific and technological research. They do this in response to the demands of consumers in order to maintain their business over the long term (Sudharatna & Hongladarom, 2006). Many countries focus on research and development, especially prosperous and stable countries. The highest percentage of GDP allocated to research and development (34.90%) was reported in North America followed by countries in Asia, Europe, and Africa (32.20%, 27.40%, and 0.90% respectively) according to UNESCO Institute for Statistics (2011). Thailand has a relatively low percentage (0.21e0.26%) of GDP spent on research and development (National Research Council of Thailand, 2012). One of the missions of the Ministry of Science and Technology of Thailand (MOST) is to propose scientific, technological, and innovative strategies and planning as well as social contribution that will increase productivity and the quality of life for Thai people. However, the government requires more advanced research and development processes in order to improve society and the country within its tight budget. Therefore, the establishment of learning organization is crucial as this approach allows organizations to develop in a systematic manner, strengthen workflow, and to be better equipped to cope with changes in the business environment such as market competition, innovation and changes in technology, and the needs and requirements of stakeholders. This research used a structural equation model to study the impacts of learning organization and commitment on performance in two research and development organizations under MOST (the Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research and the National Science and Technology Development Agency).