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1 – 8 of 8Sayantoni Barsha and Shamim Aktar Munshi
Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of today’s rising technologies. AI is a commonly used technology in library services that have the potential to revolutionise the best…
Abstract
Purpose
Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of today’s rising technologies. AI is a commonly used technology in library services that have the potential to revolutionise the best offerings in the information age. With AI in libraries, users can explore the world of knowledge like never before with smart recommendations tailored to their needs. Overall, AI can enhance the library experience of both the users and library professionals with innovation and smart decisions. Hence, there is no doubt that AI and libraries have a close relationship; nonetheless, the usage and understanding of AI in library services continue to raise concerns, especially in the developing countries which this paper addresses. The purpose of this research paper is to review the current prospects and challenges of implementing AI in library services in developing countries. The primary objective of the study is to discern the pivotal predicaments and obstacles these nations face while implementing AI-based solutions and to propose pragmatic solutions.
Design/methodology/approach
The present study adopts a qualitative approach, using content analysis techniques to glean meaningful insights. An extensive review of the extant literature on the subject was conducted, which was meticulously analysed to furnish the findings of this study. The review is limited to English language sources, and searches were conducted using various online academic databases.
Findings
The review reveals that the prospects of implementing AI in library services in developing countries are significant, with potential benefits including improved access to information, increased efficiency and productivity and enhanced user experience. However, the review also identifies several challenges, including the lack of infrastructure and resources, the shortage of skilled personnel, the absence of data privacy regulations, digital divide and the high cost of implementing AI-based solutions.
Practical implications
The review suggests several practical solutions to overcome the challenges faced by developing countries in implementing AI in library services. These include partnerships between libraries and technology firms, investment in infrastructure and resources, training and capacity building for library staff and the development of regulatory frameworks to protect user data.
Originality/value
This research paper provides a comprehensive review of the prospects and challenges of implementing AI in library services in developing countries. The study is original in its focus on the perspectives of developing countries, their problems and obstacles. The study also provides practical recommendations that can be used by library managers, policymakers and technology firms to support the implementation of AI-based solutions in developing countries.
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This article highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of libraries and the role of librarians within the changing landscape. It discusses how libraries have traditionally…
Abstract
Purpose
This article highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of libraries and the role of librarians within the changing landscape. It discusses how libraries have traditionally operated and how they have been impacted by 4IR and external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Design/methodology/approach
The study employed a mixed methods research approach, combining an online questionnaire to derive quantitative data and interviews to provide qualitative data. The follow-up interviews provided a comprehensive understanding of how academic librarians at the DUT library use Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to adapt to the evolving environment.
Findings
This paper reports that there was consensus that CPD empowers the librarians to adapt seamlessly to the dynamic library landscape. It equips them with the knowledge and skills to stay updated on the latest trends, technologies and best practices in their field.
Practical implications
The findings carry implications for the planning and executing of ongoing CPD programmes and activities across all academic libraries.
Originality/value
This study provides an insight into the results of the importance of CPD for librarians within a developing country in southern Africa.
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Mala Ali Modu, Maimunah Sapri and Zafirah Ab Muin
The provision of facilities management (FM) services, facilitated by a well-suited sourcing strategy, significantly influences the optimization of dwelling unit performance…
Abstract
Purpose
The provision of facilities management (FM) services, facilitated by a well-suited sourcing strategy, significantly influences the optimization of dwelling unit performance, augmentation of occupants’ living experiences and the establishment of a secure and comfortable environment. Consequently, this study aims to examine the sourcing approach used for delivering FM services in social housing within Nigeria’s semi-arid climate and to assess the effectiveness of the chosen sourcing approach in the provision of FM services.
Design/methodology/approach
Data collection involved one-on-one interviews conducted with five principal/senior staff members of the Borno State Housing Corporation in Maiduguri, Northern Nigeria. For data analysis, the NVivo R1 software package and Stata 13.0 were used. Thematic analysis was applied to the data, and the findings were presented through narrations and direct quotes from participants. Logistic regression analysis was subsequently used to assess the effectiveness of the adopted in-house approach in providing FM services in the context of social housing.
Findings
Administrators of social housing in the semi-arid climate of Nigeria exclusively adopted an in-house sourcing approach for providing FM services. Nevertheless, the in-house approach was conclusively determined to be ineffective in delivering FM services within the specific context of social housing in the semi-arid climate of Nigeria.
Originality/value
This investigation centred on examining the sourcing strategy used by social housing administrators for delivering FM services in social housing within a semi-arid climate of Nigeria. Additionally, the study delved into evaluating the efficacy of the chosen sourcing approach in the actual provision of FM services.
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Eric Zanghi, Milton Brown Do Coutto Filho and Julio Cesar Stacchini de Souza
The current and modern electrical distribution networks, named smart grids (SGs), use advanced technologies to accomplish all the technical and nontechnical challenges naturally…
Abstract
Purpose
The current and modern electrical distribution networks, named smart grids (SGs), use advanced technologies to accomplish all the technical and nontechnical challenges naturally demanded by energy applications. Energy metering collecting is one of these challenges ranging from the most basic (i.e., visual assessment) to the expensive advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) using intelligent meters networks. The AMIs’ data acquisition and system monitoring environment require enhancing some routine tasks. This paper aims to propose a methodology that uses a distributed and sustainable approach to manage wide-range metering networks, focused on using current public or private telecommunication infrastructure, optimizing the implementation and operation, increasing reliability and decreasing costs.
Design/methodology/approach
Inspired by blockchain technology, a collaborative metering system architecture is conceived, managing massive data sets collected from the grid. The use of cryptography handles data integrity and security issues.
Findings
A robust proof-of-concept simulation results are presented concerning the resilience and performance of the proposed distributed remote metering system.
Originality/value
The methodology proposed in this work is an innovative AMI solution related to SGs. Regardless of the implementation, operation and maintenance of AMIs, the proposed solution is unique, using legacy and new technologies together in a reliable way.
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Rubens do Amaral, Maria do Carmo de Lima Bezerra and Gustavo Macedo de Mello Baptista
Human actions on natural ecosystems have not only jeopardized human well-being but also threatened the existence of other species. On the other hand, the benefits resulting from a…
Abstract
Purpose
Human actions on natural ecosystems have not only jeopardized human well-being but also threatened the existence of other species. On the other hand, the benefits resulting from a greater integration between the logic of nature and human occupations have been seen as motivating factors for the prevention and mitigation of environmental impacts in landscape planning, since it provides human well-being through the grant of resources, regulation of the environment and socio-cultural services called ecosystem services. This article highlights the relevance of using ecosystem integrity indicators related to the functioning of ecological support processes for landscape planning.
Design/methodology/approach
The research used the photosynthetic performance of vegetation through carbon fluxes in the landscape, defining areas where different approaches to green infrastructure can be applied, gaining over the majority of work in this area, in which low degrees of objectivity on measurement and consequent ecological recovery still prevail. Thus, using the conceptual support of restoration ecology and remote sensing, the work identified different vegetation performances in relation to the supporting ecological processes using the multispectral CO2flux index, linked to the carbon flux to identify the photosynthetic effectiveness of the vegetation and the Topographic Wetness Index (TWI).
Findings
With a study in the Distrito Federal (DF), the results of the different performances of vegetation for ecological support, through electromagnetic signatures and associated vegetation formations, allowed for the identification of hotspots of greater integrity that indicate multifunctional areas to be preserved and critical areas that deserve planning actions using green infrastructure techniques for their restoration and integration into the landscape.
Originality/value
This approach could be the initial step towards establishing clear and assertive criteria for selecting areas with greater potential for the development of supporting ecological processes in the territorial mosaic.
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Yeneneh Tamirat Negash, Liao Pei Jyun, Ali Tarhini and Shafique Ur Rehman
This study aims to contribute to the International Business literature by investigating the marketing stimuli that drive impulsiveness and perceived value in mobile shopping (MS…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to contribute to the International Business literature by investigating the marketing stimuli that drive impulsiveness and perceived value in mobile shopping (MS) platforms and their impact on consumer response.
Design/methodology/approach
This study uses a sample of 891 MS platform users and applies structural equation modeling based on the stimulus–organism–response and the consumption value theory.
Findings
The empirical finding revealed that rewards, recognition, reviews and ratings are the most influential factors driving perceived value. In addition, the results indicated that customized offerings and visually appealing experiences were the most critical factors affecting the state of impulsiveness. This study also highlights the negative impact of the ubiquitous nature of MS on impulse buying behavior, emphasizing the importance of providing consumers with tools to make informed decisions. This study demonstrates a significant positive relationship between perceived value and impulsiveness, influencing MS.
Practical implications
This study reveals generational differences in the impact of reviews and ratings on perceived value, which can inform businesses’ MS strategies. The results have implications for managers of international firms seeking to optimize their business strategies.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, using structural equation modeling, this study is the first to conduct a comprehensive examination of marketing stimuli, impulsiveness and perceived value in MS platforms. It offers businesses strategic insights by identifying rewards, recognition and customized offerings as the key determinants of consumer behavior.
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The paper intends to show why farms as we know them today may soon be a thing of the past and that organisational behaviour research has an important contribution to make in…
Abstract
Purpose
The paper intends to show why farms as we know them today may soon be a thing of the past and that organisational behaviour research has an important contribution to make in assisting the upcoming transformation.
Design/methodology/approach
Two strains of literature are reviewed and then synthesised: the literature on robots replacing humans in agricultural production and the literature on vertical integration that shifts decisions to agribusiness. Then the potential contribution of organisational behaviour research is outlined.
Findings
It is shown how the farm is likely to lose both roles for which their geographic entity is important: making decisions and carrying out production. This requires contributions from organisational behaviour research in the realms of decision designs and social systems.
Social implications
It can be anticipated that the most profitable strategy for farmland owners in the future will be collaboration with contractors. Farms as organisations, are increasingly losing their importance. This not only has grave social implications for farmworkers and landowners but also for scholars in organisational behaviour research.
Originality/value
The paper challenges an organisational unit that is so familiar to us that it is rarely questioned.
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Salman Butt, Ahmed Raza, Rabia Siddiqui, Yasir Saleem, Bill Cook and Habib Khan
This literature review aims to assess the current research on healthcare job availability and skilled professionals. The objective of this research is to identify challenges…
Abstract
Purpose
This literature review aims to assess the current research on healthcare job availability and skilled professionals. The objective of this research is to identify challenges caused by the imbalance between healthcare service demand and qualified professionals and propose potential solutions and future research directions.
Design/methodology/approach
The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) method was employed as the guiding framework for conducting this review. A qualitative research design analyzed 38 peer-reviewed, evidence-based research works from 50 journal publications. Inclusion criteria focused on empirical studies, observational research and comprehensive reviews published within the last ten years. Thematic and discourse analysis categorized themes and factors explored in selected publications.
Findings
The findings highlight significant challenges in the healthcare sector regarding job availability and skilled professionals. Developed countries face understaffed healthcare facilities, resulting in increased workloads and compromised care. Developing countries experience high rates of unemployment among healthcare graduates due to limited resources and mentorship.
Practical implications
Improving educational infrastructure, expanding training opportunities and increasing healthcare investments are crucial for nurturing a skilled workforce. Implementing effective retention policies, fostering international collaborations and addressing socioeconomic determinants can create a sustainable job market.
Originality/value
The healthcare sector faces critical challenges in balancing job availability and skilled professionals. Strategic solutions are proposed to create a sustainable and equitable healthcare workforce. By implementing recommendations and conducting further research, access to quality healthcare and global public health outcomes can be improved.
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