Search results

1 – 10 of over 8000
Open Access
Article
Publication date: 6 February 2024

Matthew Quayson, Eric Kofi Avornu and Albert Kweku Bediako

Blockchain technology enhances information management in healthcare supply chains by securing healthcare information and providing medical resource traceability. However, there is…

Abstract

Purpose

Blockchain technology enhances information management in healthcare supply chains by securing healthcare information and providing medical resource traceability. However, there is no decision framework to support blockchain implementation for managing information, especially in emerging economies’ healthcare supply chains. This paper develops a hierarchical decision model for implementing blockchain technology for information management in emerging economies’ healthcare supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses 20 health supply chain experts in Ghana to rank 17 decision criteria for implementing blockchain for healthcare information management using the best-worst method (BWM) multi-criteria decision technique.

Findings

The results show that “security” and “privacy,” “infrastructural facility” and “presence of training facilities” are the top three critical factors impacting blockchain adoption in the health supply chain for healthcare information management. Other sub-factors are prioritized.

Practical implications

To implement blockchain effectively to enhance information management in the healthcare supply chain, health institutions, blockchain technology providers and state authorities should concentrate on the highly critical factors extracted from the study.

Originality/value

This is the first study that develops a hierarchical decision model for implementing blockchain technology in emerging economies' health supply chains.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 September 2023

Luminita Hurbean, Louie H.M. Wong, Carol XJ Ou, Robert M. Davison and Octavian Dospinescu

The authors investigate the relationship between instant messenger (IM) use and work performance, mediated by interruptions and two key indicators of the stress associated with…

Abstract

Purpose

The authors investigate the relationship between instant messenger (IM) use and work performance, mediated by interruptions and two key indicators of the stress associated with technology use: overload and complexity.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors validate this research model using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) with data collected through a survey of 416 working professionals.

Findings

The data reveal that while IM use contributes minimally to work interruptions and to a greater extent to technological complexity, these two constructs fully mediate the direct influence of IM use at work on technology overload, and meanwhile significantly and directly contribute to work performance.

Research limitations/implications

This research provides theoretical insights into the deployment of IM and its actual impacts in the workplace. To improve the generalisation of the findings, the authors call for more IM-related research in other countries, with more native theories and various methodologies in this domain.

Practical implications

The level of stress generated through IM use is moderate, considering IM is not a significant contributor to work interruptions. Thus, despite the potential negative effects of IM communication, the positive effects of using IM at work prevail. As a result, the technology can be promoted as long as employees, their managers and the organisation as a whole are well prepared. Employees can transfer skills and behaviour from the personal setting to their work environment and thus may find an intrinsic motivation to make better use of the IM technology at work.

Originality/value

The authors argue that this research model is novel for its perspective on evaluating the actual impacts of IM use at work instead of the reasons of using it. The authors conceptualise the process to explain how IM contributes to interruptions and other technostress indicators in the working context, and the impact on performance. Contrary to some prior research, the authors find that overall IM applications do not have a negative impact on work performance, and instead may enhance it.

Details

Information Technology & People, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-3845

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 24 August 2023

Lai-Ying Leong, Teck Soon Hew, Keng-Boon Ooi, Nick Hajli and Garry Wei-Han Tan

Social commerce (SC) is a new genre in electronic commerce (e-commerce) that has great potential. This study proposes a new research framework to address deficiencies in existing…

Abstract

Purpose

Social commerce (SC) is a new genre in electronic commerce (e-commerce) that has great potential. This study proposes a new research framework to address deficiencies in existing social commerce research frameworks (e.g. the information model).

Design/methodology/approach

In the era of Industrial Revolution 4.0 technologies and new social commerce (s-commerce) models, the authors believe that there is an immediate need for a new research framework. The authors analysed the progress of the s-commerce paradigm between 2003 and 2023 by applying longitudinal science mapping. The authors then developed a research framework based on the themes in the strategic diagrams and evolution map.

Findings

From 2003 to 2010, studies on s-commerce mainly focused on social networking sites, virtual communities, social shopping and analytic approaches. From 2011 to 2015, it shifted to s-commerce, consumer behaviour, Web 2.0, artificial intelligence, social technologies, online shopping, user studies, data gathering methods, applications, service-based social commerce constructs, e-commerce and cognitive factors. Social commerce remained the primary research paradigm from 2017 to 2023.

Practical implications

The SC framework may be analogous to popular research frameworks such as technology-organisation-environment (T-O-E) and stimulus-organism-response (S-O-R). Based on this SC framework, researchers may gain a better understanding by determining the factors of the social, commercial, technological and behavioural dimensions.

Originality/value

The authors redefined s-commerce and developed an SC framework. Practical guidelines for the SC framework and an exemplary research model are presented. Overall, this study offers a new research agenda for the extant understanding of s-commerce, with the SC framework as the next frontier of the theoretical advancements and applications of s-commerce.

Details

Internet Research, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1066-2243

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 25 July 2023

XinYing Chew, Raed Alharbi, Khai Wah Khaw and Alhamzah Alnoor

The study is interested in knowing “the role of the organizational structure as a mediating variable of the relationship between the information technology and organizational…

2567

Abstract

Purpose

The study is interested in knowing “the role of the organizational structure as a mediating variable of the relationship between the information technology and organizational communication”.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted in several service companies, and the study adopted the questionnaire as a basic tool for the data collection on the practical side, as 267 opinions were surveyed, in addition to conducting personal interviews, and the normal distribution of data was tested, analyzing, describing and diagnosing study variables, testing correlations and determining direct effects.

Findings

Findings show that there is no direct and significant statistical impact of information technology on organizational communications. Whereas there was a positive, direct and statistically significant impact of information technology on the organizational structure. There was also a positive, direct and statistically significant effect of the organizational structure on organizational communication.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is restricted to the role of the organizational structure as a mediating variable of the relationship between the influence of information technology on organizational communication.

Practical implications

As part of the practical implication, the paper suggests the need to increase support and attention to the importance of information technology in service organizations in order to increase coordination and organizational communication and achieve a high ability to explore and exploit ideas.

Originality/value

Apart from the fact that several companies were engaged, the organizational structures of these companies were engaged too to examine the impacts of Information technology (ICT) on organizational communication.

Details

PSU Research Review, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2399-1747

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 May 2023

Fatma Sonmez Cakir, Ozan Kalaycioglu and Zafer Adiguzel

The purpose of the article is to examine the concepts of knowledge management strategies, innovation and service quality in information technology companies that have research and…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the article is to examine the concepts of knowledge management strategies, innovation and service quality in information technology companies that have research and development (R&D) departments in the technoparks of research universities.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was carried out in information technology companies with R&D departments in the technoparks of universities. Due to the “innovation” focus of the research, 302 engineers were selected by random sampling from engineers working in information technology companies in technoparks, and the prepared scale was sent to them via e-mail. In total, 302 units of data were subjected to path analysis and mediation effect analysis using the SmartPLS program.

Findings

In the research, it is supported by hypotheses that both knowledge management strategies and organizational innovation have a positive effect on the success of service quality and product innovation in information technology companies with R&D departments. At the same time, it can be explained as a result of analysis that innovation capability has both an independent and an intermediary variable effect.

Research limitations/implications

Considering the limitations of the research, it is not correct to generalize the results of the analysis because the research was conducted only in information technology companies located in technoparks, and the data were collected from engineers working in these companies. For this reason, it is recommended that similar studies that are planned to be conducted in the future should do their research by taking this situation into account. At the same time, it is recommended to carry out future studies in different sectors and to bring the results obtained to the literature by comparing them.

Practical implications

The importance of information is increasing in technology-oriented companies where competition is increasing. Companies that cannot go beyond imitation or offer similar products and/or services cannot compete with their competitors in a competitive environment. The fact that companies can be successful in a competitive environment is supported by hypotheses as a result of the analysis that they need to develop organizational innovation and knowledge, as well as develop innovation capability at the same time.

Originality/value

The research is an original study in terms of examining the R&D departments of information technology companies operating in the technoparks of universities. Innovation and knowledge management strategies are examined within the scope of the research model by collecting data from information technology companies with R&D departments.

Details

Information Technology & People, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-3845

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 4 January 2023

Juliana de Jesus Mendes, Marcelo José Carrer, Marcela de Mello Brandão Vinholis and Hildo Meirelles de Souza Filho

This study aimed to identify the determinants of farmers' participation in agricultural information-sharing digital groups and their impacts on farm performance.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aimed to identify the determinants of farmers' participation in agricultural information-sharing digital groups and their impacts on farm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data of the 2015/2016 crop year collected from 175 cattle farmers were analyzed using descriptive statistics and econometric models. Farmers who had smartphones and participated in social groups/applications, especially those created to exchange agricultural information, were considered adopters of the technology.

Findings

A Poisson hurdle model showed that farmers' decision to participate in agricultural information-sharing digital groups is determined by schooling, age (negative effect) and use of tools for planning production. The intensity of participation is affected by risk propensity, interaction with specialist advisors, use of tools for planning production and participation in cooperatives. The authors also found empirical evidence that farmers' participation in agricultural information-sharing digital groups positively affects farm income per hectare.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study are important for accelerating the diffusion of low-cost digital technologies, which are powerful tools for improving farmers' sharing and access to valuable information in real time and in locations far from urban areas.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first empirical analysis of the adoption and impacts of agricultural information-sharing digital groups/applications by Brazilian cattle farmers. The diffusion of simple digital technologies is important for reducing heterogeneity and increasing the efficiency of cattle production.

Details

Journal of Agribusiness in Developing and Emerging Economies, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-0839

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 December 2023

Asad Ullah Khan, Zhiqiang Ma, Mingxing Li, Liangze Zhi, Weijun Hu and Xia Yang

The evolution from emerging technologies to smart libraries is thoroughly analyzed thematically and bibliometrically in this research study, spanning 2013 through 2022. Finding…

Abstract

Purpose

The evolution from emerging technologies to smart libraries is thoroughly analyzed thematically and bibliometrically in this research study, spanning 2013 through 2022. Finding and analyzing the significant changes, patterns and trends in the subject as they are represented in academic papers is the goal of this research.

Design/methodology/approach

Using bibliometric methodologies, this study gathered and examined a large corpus of research papers, conference papers and related material from several academic databases.

Findings

Starting with Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), Big Data (BD), Augmentation Reality/Virtual Reality and Blockchain Technology (BT), the study discusses the advent of new technologies and their effects on libraries. Using bibliometric analysis, this study looks at the evolution of publications over time, the geographic distribution of research and the most active institutions and writers in the area. A thematic analysis is also carried out to pinpoint the critical areas of study and trends in emerging technologies and smart libraries. Some emerging themes are information retrieval, personalized recommendations, intelligent data analytics, connected library spaces, real-time information access, augmented reality/virtual reality applications in libraries and strategies, digital literacy and inclusivity.

Originality/value

This study offers a thorough overview of the research environment by combining bibliometric and thematic analysis, illustrating the development of theories and concepts during the last ten years. The results of this study helps in understanding the trends and future research directions in emerging technologies and smart libraries. This study is an excellent source of information for academics, practitioners and policymakers involved in developing and applying cutting-edge technology in library environments.

Article
Publication date: 31 March 2023

Sanjay Kumar Jha

As information providers, libraries select, acquire, process, store, preserve and distribute information resources to customers. Innovative technologies like the blockchain have…

Abstract

Purpose

As information providers, libraries select, acquire, process, store, preserve and distribute information resources to customers. Innovative technologies like the blockchain have posed major challenges to education and library services. The main goal of the application of blockchain technology (BT) in libraries and information centers is to give all possible users in participating library systems unrestricted access to digital content and print collections while minimizing risk to protect each user’s privacy and identification. A fresh and dependable technology called blockchain aids in the security, reliability and preservation of information. The 21st century’s change agents’ libraries are implementing new technologies to deliver the most knowledge possible in the shortest amount of time. It cannot be overstated how this technology has the potential to transform library services, operations and functions.

Design/methodology/approach

An extensive review of literature on “smart libraries” was carried to ascertain the emerging technologies in the smart library domain. Literature was searched against various keywords like smart libraries, smart technologies, Internet of Things, electronic resource management, data mining, artificial intelligence, ambient intelligence, BT and augmented reality. Later on, the works citing the literature on smart libraries were also explored to visualize a broad spectrum of emerging concepts about this growing trend in libraries.

Findings

Blockchain is one of the rapidly expanding and evolving technology. Librarians and library need to understand the opportunities, benefits and risks of blockchain. Perhaps in libraries, BT will become a useful tool for storing, storing and sharing information. This technology also aids in the acquisition of library materials that can improve collection maintenance. Blockchain can protect user and patron records and enhance the privacy of user and research data. This technology also improves collaboration among library patrons and staff. BT is increasingly being adopted by libraries in various ways. It creates an improved metadata system to protect digital-first selling rights, peer-to-peer sharing and more. Apart from what have been already discussed, this technology is perfect for academia and perfect for achieving potential pace in libraries. It can be used to safeguard library user records, retrieve libraries document and improve collection management. A special bulk request enables identification and discovery of unique holdings. Scientific writing is another good use case for blockchain, where researchers can record and time-stamp ideas and spread information. BT presents a significant opportunity for libraries to enhance user privacy, enhance collaboration and transform the manner in which libraries and communities collaborate. The University of San Jose in Toronto, the Reference Library, the Suffolk Collaborative Library System and many other libraries are exploring this technology, and various other libraries are set to follow suit.

Originality/value

The paper tries to highlight the usage of blockchain technologies in the libraries and information center setups for the efficient working of library setups. Blockchain is one of the emerging technologies that have the potential to bring the technology revolution.

Article
Publication date: 28 February 2023

Faten Hamad, Maha Al-Fadel and Ahmed Maher Khafaga Shehata

Technological advancement has forced academic libraries to change their traditional services and routines by adopting emerging technologies to respond to the changing information…

Abstract

Purpose

Technological advancement has forced academic libraries to change their traditional services and routines by adopting emerging technologies to respond to the changing information needs of their users who are now more technologically inclined and prefer to access information remotely and in a timely manner. Smart technologies are the recent trends in academic libraries. This research aims to investigate the level of smart information service implementation at academic libraries in Jordan. It also aimed to investigate the correlation between the level of smart information services offered by the libraries and the level of digital competencies among the library staff.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is designed using survey design to collect comprehensive information from the study participants. A questionnaire was disseminated to 340 respondents, and 246 questionnaires were returned and were suitable for analysis with a response rate of 72.4%.

Findings

The results indicated a moderate level of smart information service offered by academic libraries, as well as a moderate level of digital skills associated with the advocacy of smart information services. The results also indicated a strong and positive relationship between the level of smart information services at the investigated libraries and the level of digital competencies among the librarians.

Practical implications

The findings will help other academic libraries understand how to respond to the emergent change in users’ information-seeking behavior by understanding their available human resources competencies and the requirement to undergo this emergent change.

Originality/value

This paper provides insights and practical solutions for academic libraries in response to global information trends based on users’ behaviors. This research was conducted in Jordan as one of the developing countries and hence it provides insights of the situation there. It will help academic libraries in Jordan and the region to handle and cope with the challenges associated with technology acceptance based on its staff level of digital competencies. The contribution of this research that it was done in a developing country where progress in the filed can be considered slow because of many factors, mainly economics, where institutions focus on essential library objectives, which are information resources development and databases subscriptions.

Details

Global Knowledge, Memory and Communication, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2514-9342

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 6 July 2020

Francesco Bolici, Chiara Acciarini, Lucia Marchegiani and Luca Pirolo

Technological innovations provide huge opportunities to expand and revolutionize the scope of products and services offered. This is particularly true for tourism, which is…

3700

Abstract

Purpose

Technological innovations provide huge opportunities to expand and revolutionize the scope of products and services offered. This is particularly true for tourism, which is undergoing significant changes due to the development of new technologies. The level of technology diffusion depends on several factors like the exchange of information among peers, and the attitude and shared perception among the contributors. The aim of the study is to explore the diffusion of technology in tourism with a specific focus on the social media discourse around new technologies. Thus, the paper investigates the level of interest in these new technologies analysing the information exchange occurring between individuals on Twitter in order to explore the influence of reciprocal networking.

Design/methodology/approach

To capture the attitudes expressed in the industry, the study analyses the ongoing discourse on Twitter as a proxy for the participants “interest in new technologies. Through a social network analysis of the tweets and retweets conducted over a period of nine months, the research maps the level of information exchange about the diffusion of new technologies. Moreover, the sentiment analysis provides an interesting overview of the individuals” attitudes towards the awareness or the adoption of new technologies.

Findings

Our analysis has provided several insights: (1) the information network on blockchain in tourism consists of participants who change very quickly over time (high turnover of accounts); (2) some contributors have an extremely important role in influencing the flow of information in the system (information centralization), they can have a generalist (discussing several topics) or a specialist (focusing on a specific topic) behaviour and this strategic choice influences their network's structure; (3) these central nodes also have an impact on the definition of positive and negative sentiment towards a topic (sentiment influencer).

Research limitations/implications

The paper contributes to the literature on technology diffusion, by focusing on one of the preconditions of diffusion that is the shared positive attitude towards technological innovation. More specifically, we adopt a network-based approach, which is useful to explain the level of information exchange and the public discourse that can impact the shared perception and attitude towards technological innovation. The study also highlights the role of knowledge brokers in influencing this public discourse. Future studies can deepen the association between positive perception, higher levels of information exchange and increasing usage of specific technologies. Our results also suggest further exploring the opportunity to combine social media data and other sources of information to shed more light on the technological innovation diffusion processes.

Practical implications

This paper shows how practitioners can benefit from the analysis of information exchange about new technologies in tourism adopting a network perspective with the aim of understanding the level of influence among contributors. Moreover, the increasing interest in blockchain technology and the potential combination between social media data and other sources of information can offer promising insights.

Social implications

The present study explores the level of technology diffusion through the analysis of information exchange on social media (Twitter). Furthermore, the dynamics of individual user behaviour offers a better understanding about media effects.

Originality/value

While previous research is focused on the users' perception towards the development of new technologies in tourism, the aim of this study is to investigate the dynamics behind the level of diffusion of information and awareness about these new technologies, which still represents an unexplored area of research.

Details

The TQM Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1754-2731

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 8000