Analysis of the Skill Requirements of the Turkish Banking Sector: A Fuzzy DEMATEL Application

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this study is to identify and prioritize the skills required for employment in the Turkish banking sector from a human resources perspective. The research aims to provide an evidence-based framework for strategic human resource planning in the context of digital transformation and financial innovation shaping today’s banking industry.
Design/methodology/approach – A two-stage methodological approach was adopted. In the first stage, the skill dimensions and criteria required in the banking sector were evaluated through expert opinions, and scale validity was ensured using Lawshe’s Content Validity Ratio (CVR) and Content Validity Index (CVI) methods. In the second stage, the validated structure was analyzed through the Fuzzy DEMATEL method to determine the causal relationships and weight values among the dimensions and criteria.
Results – The findings revealed that “Task Performance” had the highest weight among the main dimensions. “Personal–Intellectual Development,” “Academic Knowledge,” and “Technological Adaptability” were identified as influencing (causal) factors, whereas “Task Performance” and “Organizational Integration” were determined as influenced (effect) factors. At the criteria level, communication skills, individual performance, regulatory knowledge, information technology competence, and organizational commitment emerged as key elements.
Discussion – The results highlight the strategic significance of digital competencies, analytical thinking, and risk management knowledge in the banking sector. The study emphasizes that university curricula should be strengthened with courses on digital banking, financial analytics, and technological adaptability, and that sector–university collaboration plays a crucial role in improving the quality of human resources within the industry.