Search results

1 – 10 of 78
Article
Publication date: 19 July 2023

B.F. Giannetti, Feni Agostinho, C.M.V.B. Almeida, Marcos José Alves Pinto Jr, Maritza Chirinos Marroquín and Medardo Delgado Paredes

The study of sustainability within universities is recognized as essential for debates and research; in the long term, the “sustainable university” concepts can contribute to…

Abstract

Purpose

The study of sustainability within universities is recognized as essential for debates and research; in the long term, the “sustainable university” concepts can contribute to sustainability from a larger perspective. This study aims to propose a conceptual model for evaluating the students’ sustainability considering their interactions with the university and the environment. The proposed model is titled Sunshine model. It is applied to students of the La Salle University, Peru.

Design/methodology/approach

The model combines academic performance, happiness and the ecological footprint to quantify university students’ sustainability. A structured questionnaire survey was elaborated and applied to get the raw data that feeds the three methods. The students’ average grades evaluate academic performance. Happiness is quantified by the happiness index method, and the ecological footprint is measured by the demand for food, paper, electricity, transport and built-up areas. Results are evaluated under both approaches, overall group performance and clusters.

Findings

The proposed model avoids misleading interpretations of a single indicator or discussions on sustainability that lack a conceptual model, bringing robustness in assessing students’ sustainability in universities. To have a low ecological footprint, the student needs to need up to 1 planet for their lifestyle, be considered happy with at least 0.8 (of 1) for happiness index, and have good academic performance with at least a grade of 7 (of 10) in their course. Regarding the case study, La Salle students show a high academic grade degree of 7, a high level for happiness index of 0.8 and low performance for ecological footprint by demanding 1.8 Earth planets, resulting in an “environmentally distracted” overall classification for students with 2019 data. From a cluster approach, 81% of evaluated students (n = 603) have low performance for ecological footprint, whereas 31% have low performance for indicators of recreational activities of happiness. Changing lifestyles and making more recreational activities available play crucial roles in achieving higher sustainability for the La Salle students.

Research limitations/implications

The happiness assessment questionnaire can be subject to criticism, as it was created as a specific method for this type of audience based on existing questionnaires in the literature. Although it can be seen as an important approach for diagnoses, the proposed model does not consider the cause–effect aspect. The decision-maker must consider the sociocultural aspects before implementing plan actions.

Practical implications

University managers can better understand why university students have high or low sustainability performance and provide more effective actions toward higher levels of students’ sustainability.

Originality/value

The proposed model, Sunshine model, overcomes the single-criteria existing tools that access the sustainability of universities. Rather than focusing on university infrastructure, the proposed model focuses on the students and their relationship with the university.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. 24 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 6 March 2023

Paulina Ines Rytkönen, Pejvak Oghazi and Rana Mostaghel

The aim is to advance the conceptualisation of island entrepreneurship by investigating how the island context, for example, industry characteristics, social context and formal…

Abstract

Purpose

The aim is to advance the conceptualisation of island entrepreneurship by investigating how the island context, for example, industry characteristics, social context and formal and informal institutions, influences the development of artisan food businesses in that context.

Design/methodology/approach

An applied, qualitative and participatory research approach was implemented. Data were collected during a business development process focusing on food artisans in the Åland Islands. In total, 19 business owners participated in the process. Key informants and public officers were interviewed, and the literature was reviewed. Interviews were analysed using phenomenography to identify representative categories, and the literature was analysed using content analysis.

Findings

Island characteristics and context, local institutions, the quality of social capital and gendered institutions influence business activities positively and negatively. Island entrepreneurship entails mobilising agencies to find innovative solutions that enable businesses to overcome obstacles. Most previous research treats business activities as entrepreneurship; however, as self-employment is essential in the island context, it should be highlighted in future studies.

Research limitations/implications

This study illustrates how the island context influences the business development of small firms. Results indicate that local policies (1) benefitting female entrepreneurs, (2) supporting local businesses and (3) promoting locally produced artisan food could generate benefits for the entire artisan food businesses.

Practical implications

Local policies that (1) benefit female entrepreneurs, (2) support local businesses and (3) promote locally produced artisan food have the potential to generate benefits for the entire trade. Policies can benefit from an understanding of the role played by different ecosystem actors. Promoting self-employment can generate benefits for the local entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing agglomeration and helping to solve some challenges caused by the characteristics of islands.

Originality/value

Empirically, this research enhances the knowledge of post-productive responses in the island context. Theoretically, the study advances the conceptualisation of research on the island entrepreneurship context and the local food debate.

Details

British Food Journal, vol. 125 no. 13
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 20 May 2021

Juliane Lohmann, Marina Schmitz and Silvia Damme

The topics of gender and sustainability are firmly anchored within a social discourse. Based on both factors, customers are placing demands on companies and have specific ideas on…

Abstract

The topics of gender and sustainability are firmly anchored within a social discourse. Based on both factors, customers are placing demands on companies and have specific ideas on how they should be represented in advertising. The case study presented herein combines these two topics and examines the portrayal of gender in the external marketing communication of the fair fashion label ARMEDANGELS. By analysing individual Instagram publications, the case study identifies how the topic is generally portrayed on the company’s channel. Furthermore, the perspectives of customers are determined through conducted interviews. When comparing the two sides, it becomes apparent that customers mostly approve of the attempt to break with conservative gender roles as well as an equal representation of the male and female personas. In addition to expanding the theoretical considerations of the triple bottom line as well as the S-O-R model, we derive recommendations for ARMEDANGELS and for other companies in the fashion industry. For customer retention purposes, companies should therefore focus on aligning the sexes, breaking with the general gender binary and integrating LGBTQ+ communities in future marketing measures.

Details

Emerald Open Research, vol. 1 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2631-3952

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 2 January 2024

Ewald Aschauer and Reiner Quick

This study aims to investigate why and how shared service centres (SSCs) are implemented as well as how they affect audit firm practice and audit quality.

1315

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate why and how shared service centres (SSCs) are implemented as well as how they affect audit firm practice and audit quality.

Design/methodology/approach

In this qualitative study guided by the theoretical framework of institutional theory, the authors conducted 25 semi-structured interviews in seven European countries, including 16 interviews with audit partners from Big 4 firms, 6 with audit team members, 2 with interviewees from second-tier audit firms and 1 with a member of an oversight body.

Findings

The authors show that the central rationale for audit firms to implement SSCs is economic rather than external legitimacy. The authors find that SSC implementation has substantial effects on audit practices, particularly those related to standardisation, coordination and monitoring activities. The authors also highlight the potential impacts on audit quality.

Originality/value

By exploring the motivation for and effects of SSC implementation amongst audit firms, the authors offer insights into the best practices related to subsequent change processes and audit quality.

Details

Accounting, Auditing & Accountability Journal, vol. 37 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0951-3574

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 13 February 2024

Kaisu Laitinen, Mika Luhtala, Maiju Örmä and Kalle Vaismaa

Insufficient productivity development in the global and Finnish infrastructure sectors indicates that there are challenges in genuinely achieving the goals of resource efficiency…

Abstract

Purpose

Insufficient productivity development in the global and Finnish infrastructure sectors indicates that there are challenges in genuinely achieving the goals of resource efficiency and digitalization. This study adapts the approach of capability maturity model integration (CMMI) for examining the capabilities for productivity development that reveal the enablers of improving productivity in the infrastructure sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Civil engineering in Finland was selected as the study area, and a qualitative research approach was adopted. A novel maturity model was constructed deductively through a three-step analytical process. Previous research literature was adapted to form a framework with maturity levels and key process areas (KPAs). KPA attributes and their maturity criteria were formed through a thematic analysis of interview data from 12 semi-structured group interviews. Finally, validation and refinement of the model were performed with an expert panel.

Findings

This paper provides a novel maturity model for examining and enhancing the infrastructure sector’s maturity in productivity development. The model brings into discussion the current business logics, relevance of lifecycle-thinking, binding targets and outcomes of limited activities in the surrounding infrastructure system.

Originality/value

This paper provides a new approach for pursuing productivity development in the infrastructure sector by constructing a maturity model that adapts the concepts of CMMI and change management. The model and findings benefit all actors in the sector and provide an understanding of the required elements and means to achieve a more sustainable built environment and effective operations.

Details

Built Environment Project and Asset Management, vol. 14 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-124X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 25 March 2024

Shivangi Viral Thakker, Santosh B. Rane and Vaibhav S. Narwane

Digital supply chains require nascent technologies like blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT). There is a need to develop a roadmap for the implementation of these technologies…

Abstract

Purpose

Digital supply chains require nascent technologies like blockchain and Internet of Things (IoT). There is a need to develop a roadmap for the implementation of these technologies, as they require a huge amount of resources and infrastructure. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the challenges of implementing blockchain-IoT integrated architecture in the green supply chain and develop strategies for the same.

Design/methodology/approach

After a thorough literature survey of Scopus-indexed journals and books, 37 barriers were identified, which were then brought down to 15 barriers after confirming with industry and academic experts using the Delphi method. Using the total interpretive structural modeling (TISM) method and cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) analysis, the barriers were modeled, and finally, strategies were formulated using a concept map to handle the barriers in the blockchain-IoT integrated architecture for a green supply chain.

Findings

This paper presents the research on barriers that can be considered for incorporating blockchain and IoT in the green supply chain. It was found from the TISM model that environmental concerns are Level-1 barriers and need to be addressed by developing appropriate technology and allocating funds for the same. An integrated ecosystem with blockchain and IoT is developed.

Research limitations/implications

The focus of this study was on the challenges of blockchain and IoT; hence, it is required to extend the research and find challenges for different industries and also analyze the criteria using other multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) methods. Further research is required for the integration of blockchain-IoT with supply chain functions.

Practical implications

The transformation of a traditional supply chain into a green supply chain is possible with the integration of technologies. This research work and the strategies developed are useful to managers and practitioners working on technology implementation. Planning resources and addressing key barriers is possible with the concept maps and architecture developed.

Social implications

Green supply chain management (SCM) is gaining importance in industry as well as the academic sector due to government Policies and norms worldwide for reducing emissions and encouraging environment-friendly production systems. Incorporating blockchain and IoT in a green supply chain will further digitize and increase transparency in supply chains.

Originality/value

We have done a categorization of all barriers based on the expert survey by academicians and industry experts from industries in India. The concept map helps in identifying possible solutions for the challenges and initiatives to be taken for the smooth integration of technologies in the green supply chain.

Details

Modern Supply Chain Research and Applications, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2631-3871

Keywords

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of active teaching methodologies, namely, problem-oriented learning and the case method, to develop sustainability competencies. It also analyses the advantages and challenges for teachers when implementing the sustainable development goals (SDGs) in eight undergraduate and postgraduate degrees within the framework of a cross-departmental collaboration.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed research methodology was used: a quantitative study to assess the levels of acquisition of sustainability and research competencies and the potential correlation between them, as well as a mixed study of the advantages and challenges for the teachers participating in the cross-departmental initiative. Curriculum content linked to the SDGs was worked on. Active teaching methodologies and a competency assessment rubric were used as curriculum implementation strategies in the eight courses involved.

Findings

Active teaching methodologies are suitable to implement the SDGs in university teaching and to develop both sustainability and research competencies. A synergic effect is observed between them. Coordinated work between teachers of different subjects in several degrees contributes to developing a culture of sustainability at the university.

Research limitations/implications

Although the collaboration between teachers from different disciplines was successful, this study did not promote interdisciplinary projects among students from different degrees. This promises to be highly valuable for future research.

Practical implications

Students can become present and future leaders in achieving the SDGs. This approach can be replicated in other educational institutions.

Social implications

This study bridges the gap between theoretical recommendations and the practical implementation of the SDGs in undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

Originality/value

Coordinated work between teachers of different subjects in different degrees contributes to the development of a culture of sustainability at the university.

Details

International Journal of Sustainability in Higher Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1467-6370

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 31 January 2024

Juan F. Prados-Castillo, Juan Antonio Torrecilla-García and Francisco Liébana-Cabanillas

The primary objective of this study is to ascertain how Metaverse technologies, primarily virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), redefine tourism experiences. It aims to…

Abstract

Purpose

The primary objective of this study is to ascertain how Metaverse technologies, primarily virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), redefine tourism experiences. It aims to delve into the capabilities of these technologies in eliminating conventional physical and economic barriers and enabling virtual exploration of destinations. Additionally, this study seeks to understand how tourism enterprises can leverage Metaverse technologies for operational efficiency and enhance customer satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses a two-pronged methodological approach, incorporating bibliometric analysis techniques and a systematic literature review. Bibliometric analysis provides a quantitative assessment of existing literature, identifying key trends, authors and publications in the domain of Metaverse tourism. Concurrently, this systematic literature review qualitatively evaluates the content and context of these studies, focussing on the applications of VR and AR in tourism as well as the managerial and consumer implications therein.

Findings

The findings reveal a significant uptick in literature production in the Metaverse tourism domain post-2018, indicating a burgeoning interest in this field. Metaverse facilitates a unique blend of engaging and personalised tourism experiences from the comfort of one’s home. Moreover, tourism enterprises stand to gain from streamlined booking processes and to improve operational efficiency, which in turn augments customer satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

This research is confined to the analysis of the existing literature and does not involve primary data collection, which could limit the comprehensiveness of the insights. Moreover, the nascent stage of Metaverse technology in tourism presents a challenge in deriving conclusive implications. This study underscores the need for further empirical research to validate the theoretical frameworks discussed and explore the long-term implications of Metaverse technologies in the tourism sector.

Practical implications

Metaverse opens avenues for tourism enterprises to enhance their customer engagement and operational efficiency. It offers a novel platform for immersive and personalised travel experiences, thereby potentially increasing the market reach and customer satisfaction. The streamlined processes facilitated by Metaverse could also lead to cost reduction and increased profitability for tourism enterprises.

Social implications

The integration of Metaverse technologies could democratise travel experiences, allowing individuals who might be economically or physically constrained to virtually explore global destinations. However, it also raises concerns regarding the digital divide and potential loss of authentic human interactions and cultural exchanges that traditionally characterise tourism.

Originality/value

This study is among the pioneering efforts to quantitatively and qualitatively analyse the burgeoning field of metaverse tourism. By amalgamating bibliometric analysis with a systematic literature review, it unveils the potential of Metaverse technologies in transcending conventional tourism paradigms, presenting a comprehensive understanding of the practical, managerial and consumer-centric implications therein.

设计/方法/途径

本研究采用了双管齐下的方法, 既有文献计量分析技术, 又有系统的文献综述。文献计量分析对现有文献进行定量评估, 确定元旅游领域的主要趋势、作者和出版物。同时, 系统性文献综述对这些作品的内容和背景进行了定性评估, 重点关注虚拟现实(VR)和增强现实(AR)在旅游业中的应用以及对管理和消费者的影响。

研究目的

本研究的主要目的是确定元宇宙技术(主要是 VR 和 AR)如何重新定义旅游体验。研究旨在深入探讨这些技术在消除传统物理和经济障碍以及实现目的地虚拟探索方面的能力。此外, 本研究还试图了解旅游企业如何利用元数据技术提高运营效率和客户满意度。

研究结果

研究结果表明, 2018 年后, Metaverse 旅游领域的文献产量大幅上升, 表明人们对这一领域的兴趣日益浓厚。Metaverse 可以让人们在家中就能享受到独特的个性化旅游体验。此外, 旅游企业可从简化预订流程和提高运营效率中获益, 进而提高客户满意度。

研究限制/影响

本研究仅限于对现有文献的分析, 不涉及原始数据收集, 这可能会限制研究见解的全面性。此外, Metaverse 技术在旅游业中的应用尚处于起步阶段, 这对得出结论性影响提出了挑战。本研究强调有必要开展进一步的实证研究, 以验证所讨论的理论框架, 并探索元数据技术在旅游业中的长期影响。

实际意义

Metaverse 为旅游企业提高客户参与度和运营效率开辟了道路。它为身临其境的个性化旅游体验提供了一个新颖的平台, 从而有可能提高市场覆盖率和客户满意度。Metaverse 推动的简化流程还可降低旅游企业的成本, 提高其盈利能力。

社会影响

Metaverse 技术的整合可以使旅游体验平民化, 让经济或身体条件有限的人也能以虚拟方式探索全球旅游目的地。然而, 它也引发了人们对数字鸿沟的担忧, 以及对传统旅游业所特有的真实人际互动和文化交流的潜在损失的担忧。

原创性/价值

本研究是定量和定性分析新兴的 Metaverse 旅游领域的开创性研究之一。通过将文献计量学分析与系统的文献综述相结合, 本研究揭示了元数据技术在超越传统旅游范式方面的潜力, 并对其中的实用、管理和以消费者为中心的含义提出了全面的理解。

Diseño/metodología/enfoque

Esta investigación utiliza un enfoque metodológico doble, que incorpora técnicas de análisis bibliométrico y una revisión sistemática de la literatura. El análisis bibliométrico proporciona una evaluación cuantitativa de la literatura existente, identificando tendencias, autores y publicaciones clave en el ámbito del turismo en el Metaverso. Al mismo tiempo, la revisión sistemática de la literatura evalúa cualitativamente el contenido y el contexto de estos trabajos, centrándose en las aplicaciones de la Realidad Virtual (RV) y la Realidad Aumentada (RA) en el turismo, así como en sus implicaciones para la gestión y el consumidor.

Objetivo

El objetivo principal de este estudio es determinar cómo las tecnologías asociadas al Metaverso, principalmente la RV y la RA, redefinen las experiencias turísticas. Pretende profundizar en las capacidades de estas tecnologías para eliminar las barreras físicas y económicas convencionales y permitir la exploración virtual de los destinos. Además, este estudio pretende entender cómo las empresas turísticas pueden aprovechar las tecnologías relacionadas con el Metaverso para mejorar la eficiencia operativa y la satisfacción del cliente.

Conclusiones

Los resultados revelan un aumento significativo en la producción de literatura en el ámbito del turismo en el Metaverso desde el año 2018, lo que indica un creciente interés en este campo. El Metaverso facilita una combinación única de experiencias turísticas atractivas y personalizadas desde la comodidad del hogar. Además, las empresas turísticas se benefician de la agilización de los procesos de reserva y la mejora de la eficiencia operativa, lo que a su vez aumenta la satisfacción del cliente.

Limitaciones e implicaciones de la investigación

La investigación se limita al análisis de la bibliografía existente y no incluye la recopilación de datos primarios, lo que podría limitar la exhaustividad de las conclusiones. Además, el estado incipiente de la tecnología relacionada con el Metaverso en el turismo supone un reto a la hora de extraer implicaciones concluyentes. Este estudio subraya la necesidad de realizar más estudios empíricos para validar los marcos teóricos discutidos y explorar las implicaciones a largo plazo de estas tecnologías en el sector turístico.

Implicaciones prácticas

El Metaverso abre vías para que las empresas turísticas mejoren su compromiso con el cliente y su eficiencia operativa. Ofrece una plataforma novedosa para experiencias de viaje inmersivas y personalizadas, con lo que aumenta potencialmente el alcance del mercado y la satisfacción del cliente. La racionalización de los procesos facilitados por el Metaverso también podría conducir a la reducción de costes y al aumento de la rentabilidad de las empresas turísticas.

Implicaciones sociales

La integración de las tecnologías relacionadas con el Metaverso podría democratizar las experiencias de viaje, permitiendo a personas con limitaciones económicas o físicas explorar virtualmente destinos globales. Sin embargo, también suscita preocupación en relación con la brecha digital y la posible pérdida de interacciones humanas auténticas e intercambios culturales que tradicionalmente caracterizan al turismo.

Originalidad/valor

Este estudio es uno de los pioneros en analizar cuantitativa y cualitativamente el creciente campo del turismo en el Metaverso. Amalgamando el análisis bibliométrico con una revisión sistemática de la literatura, desvela el potencial de las tecnologías relacionadas con el Metaverso para sacar a la luz los paradigmas turísticos convencionales, presentando una comprensión exhaustiva de sus implicaciones prácticas, de gestión y centradas en el consumidor.

Article
Publication date: 22 December 2023

Subhodeep Mukherjee, Manish Mohan Baral, Rajesh Kumar Singh, Venkataiah Chittipaka and Sachin S. Kamble

With the change in climate and increased pollution, there has been a need to reduce environmental carbon emissions. This research aims to develop a framework for reducing…

Abstract

Purpose

With the change in climate and increased pollution, there has been a need to reduce environmental carbon emissions. This research aims to develop a framework for reducing environmental carbon footprints to improve business performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses Scientific Procedures and Rationales for the Systematic Literature Reviews (SPAR-4-SLR) approach. Articles are searched in the Scopus database using various keywords and their combinations. It resulted in 651 articles initially. After applying different screening criteria, 61 articles were considered for the final study.

Findings

This study provided four themes and sub-themes within each category. This research also used theories, methodologies and context (TMC) framework to provide future research questions. This study used the antecedents, decisions and outcomes (ADO) framework for synthesising the findings. The ADO framework will help to achieve carbon neutrality and improve firms' supply chain (SC) performance.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides theoretical implications by highlighting the various theories that can be used in future research. This study also states the practical implications for the achievement of carbon neutrality by the firms.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature linking carbon neutrality with business performance.

Details

International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0401

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 12 October 2023

Garrett S. Brogan and Kim E. Dooley

This research paper aims to explore the impact artisan cooperatives have upon women employed in Sub-Saharan Africa. Impacts were detailed using the theoretical framework of social…

Abstract

Purpose

This research paper aims to explore the impact artisan cooperatives have upon women employed in Sub-Saharan Africa. Impacts were detailed using the theoretical framework of social capital theory to demonstrate the networks within artisan cooperatives that connect to greater opportunities for social and economic benefits.

Design/methodology/approach

A phenomenological approach was used for this study based upon the shared experiences of women who were leading artisan cooperatives in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study included semi-structured interviews over Zoom with Chief Entrepreneur Founders of artisan cooperatives located in Sub-Saharan Africa. Documents from the cooperatives were analyzed to triangulate the cooperatives’ current projects and efforts.

Findings

Three prevalent themes emerged: (1) key partnerships, (2) benefits of the cooperative and (3) change and growth among the women and communities. Empowerment was felt through both economic and social impacts upon the women.

Research limitations/implications

This article captures the perspective of the Chief Entrepreneur Founders and their observations and experiences the women shared with them. Emic perspectives from the women who participate in the artisan cooperatives is the focus of future research.

Practical implications

These social enterprises serve as exemplary models for other cooperatives to provide dignified and sustainable work to impact the lives of women serving in these communities.

Originality/value

This study contributes research on social entrepreneurship within artisan cooperatives. It provides a baseline for further research on the artisan sector specifically for the sustainable development goals of gender equality, decent work and economic growth.

Details

International Journal of Gender and Entrepreneurship, vol. 16 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1756-6266

Keywords

1 – 10 of 78