Search results

1 – 10 of over 4000
Article
Publication date: 9 August 2024

Ayesha Zia, Mumtaz Ali Memon, Muhammad Zeeshan Mirza, Yasmine Muhammad Javaid Iqbal and Adeel Tariq

Drawing on the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) theory, the primary goal of this study is to conceptualise and empirically validate a theoretical framework that explains the process…

Abstract

Purpose

Drawing on the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) theory, the primary goal of this study is to conceptualise and empirically validate a theoretical framework that explains the process by which digital job resources influence the innovative work behaviour of technological professionals. Specifically, this study aims to examine the impact of digital job resources, especially digital training, and digital communication, on employee digital engagement. Furthermore, it investigates the influence of digital engagement on digital leadership and the effect of digital leadership on innovative work behaviour. Lastly, the study examines whether digital engagement and digital leadership serially mediate the relationship between digital job resources and innovative work behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from full-time technological professionals using multiple sampling techniques. A total of 307 samples were utilised for the final data analysis. Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM), employing SmartPLS 4.0, was used to test the study hypotheses.

Findings

The findings of this study emphasize that digital engagement and digital leadership are pivotal in mediating the impact of digital communication on technological professionals' innovative work behaviour. Specifically, our results show that digital communication significantly shapes the digital engagement of these professionals. Digital engagement, in turn, positively influences digital leadership, which then fosters technological professionals’ innovative work behaviour. Notably, both digital engagement and digital leadership serve as mechanisms that link digital communication and innovative work behaviour. Contrary to our initial expectations, the study finds that digital training neither directly affects digital engagement nor has an indirect effect on innovative work behaviour.

Originality/value

The present study is distinct in offering a theoretical framework outlining the steps through which digital resources influence technological professionals' digital engagement, digital leadership capabilities, and their innovative work behaviour. Prior studies have predominantly focused on antecedents of innovative work behaviour, with an emphasis on individual characteristics and organisational environmental factors. There is limited research exploring how, or even if, digital job resources – such as digital training and digital communication – affect employees’ innovative work behaviour. Additionally, the examination of the interrelationship between digital engagement and digital leadership is notably lacking in existing literature. Much of the research has instead probed the converse relationship: how leadership styles impact employees' engagement. Lastly, this research is among the pioneering efforts to consider the serial mediating role of digital engagement and digital leadership between digital job resources and innovative work behaviour, a topic that remains underrepresented in academic discourse. This study addresses these gaps.

Details

European Journal of Innovation Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1460-1060

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 August 2024

Amarpreet Singh Gill, Derek Irwin, Pinzhuang Long, Linjing Sun, Dave Towey, Wanling Yu, Yanhui Zhang and Yaxin Zheng

This study aims to examine the effects on student motivation and perception of technological interventions within undergraduate mechanical engineering and product design and…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effects on student motivation and perception of technological interventions within undergraduate mechanical engineering and product design and manufacture programs at a Sino-foreign international university. The authors use an augmented reality game application within a class on Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DfMA) that was developed using the approaches of microlearning and digital game-based learning (DGBL).

Design/methodology/approach

Structured as design-based research, the study reports on developing innovative educational interventions and provides an empirical investigation of their effectiveness. Data were collected using a mixed methods approach, using pre- and post-tests and questionnaires, together with researcher observations and participant interviews.

Findings

Through two rounds of playtests, the game positively affected intrinsic motivation and encouraged higher-order cognitive learning, critical thinking, communication and collaboration. Collaborative learning plays a significant role, DGBL is preferred over traditional methods and microlearning reduces information density and cognitive overload.

Originality/value

The study contributes to our understanding of digital game-based interventions on students’ intrinsic motivation and provides insights into effective ways to design instructional materials in similar teaching and learning settings.

Details

Interactive Technology and Smart Education, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-5659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 September 2024

Jaya Choudhary, Mangey Ram and Ashok Singh Bhandari

This research introduces an innovation strategy aimed at bolstering the reliability of a renewable energy resource, which is hybrid energy systems, through the application of a…

Abstract

Purpose

This research introduces an innovation strategy aimed at bolstering the reliability of a renewable energy resource, which is hybrid energy systems, through the application of a metaheuristic algorithm. The growing need for sustainable energy solutions underscores the importance of integrating various energy sources effectively. Concentrating on the intermittent characteristics of renewable sources, this study seeks to create a highly reliable hybrid energy system by combining photovoltaic (PV) and wind power.

Design/methodology/approach

To obtain efficient renewable energy resources, system designers aim to enhance the system’s reliability. Generally, for this purpose, the reliability redundancy allocation problem (RRAP) method is utilized. The authors have also introduced a new methodology, named Reliability Redundancy Allocation Problem with Component Mixing (RRAP-CM), for optimizing systems’ reliability. This method incorporates heterogeneous components to create a nonlinear mixed-integer mathematical model, classified as NP-hard problems. We employ specially crafted metaheuristic algorithms as optimization strategies to address these challenges and boost the overall system performance.

Findings

The study introduces six newly designed metaheuristic algorithms. Solve the optimization problem. When comparing results between the traditional RRAP method and the innovative RRAP-CM method, enhanced reliability is achieved through the blending of diverse components. The use of metaheuristic algorithms proves advantageous in identifying optimal configurations, ensuring resource efficiency and maximizing energy output in a hybrid energy system.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s findings have significant social implications because they contribute to the renewable energy field. The proposed methodologies offer a flexible and reliable mechanism for enhancing the efficiency of hybrid energy systems. By addressing the intermittent nature of renewable sources, this research promotes the design of highly reliable sustainable energy solutions, potentially influencing global efforts towards a more environmentally friendly and reliable energy landscape.

Practical implications

The research provides practical insights by delivering a comprehensive analysis of a hybrid energy system incorporating both PV and wind components. Also, the use of metaheuristic algorithms aids in identifying optimal configurations, promoting resource efficiency and maximizing reliability. These practical insights contribute to advancing sustainable energy solutions and designing efficient, reliable hybrid energy systems.

Originality/value

This work is original as it combines the RRAP-CM methodology with six new robust metaheuristics, involving the integration of diverse components to enhance system reliability. The formulation of a nonlinear mixed-integer mathematical model adds complexity, categorizing it as an NP-hard problem. We have developed six new metaheuristic algorithms. Designed specifically for optimization in hybrid energy systems, this further highlights the uniqueness of this approach to research.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 3 July 2023

Siraj Ahmed, Jukka Majava and Kirsi Aaltonen

The purpose of this study is to investigate the benefits and challenges of implementing circular economy (CE), as well as shed light on the influence of procurement strategy in CE…

4448

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the benefits and challenges of implementing circular economy (CE), as well as shed light on the influence of procurement strategy in CE implementation in construction projects.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research approach with abductive reasoning was adopted. The empirical data were collected from the construction industry in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Findings

The results reveal that clients, consultants and contractors have limited awareness, knowledge and motivation to implement CE in construction projects. The absence of incentives to design projects following CE principles, lack of involvement of contractors and suppliers, non-use of materials that use CE principles and current procurement strategies are the main challenges for the implementation of CE in the UAE.

Originality/value

Previous research offers limited knowledge on CE and its implementation in construction projects particularly from a procurement strategy perspective. The findings of the study provide new knowledge of the benefits, challenges and role of procurement strategy for implementing CE. It is suggested that collaborative and partnering-based procurement methods are needed to facilitate the effective implementation of CE.

Details

Construction Innovation , vol. 24 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-4175

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 11 April 2023

Damianos P. Sakas, Nikolaos T. Giannakopoulos and Panagiotis Trivellas

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of affiliate marketing strategies as a tool for increasing customers' engagement and vulnerability over financial services. This…

1043

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of affiliate marketing strategies as a tool for increasing customers' engagement and vulnerability over financial services. This is attempted by examining the connection between affiliate marketing factors and customers' brand engagement and vulnerability metrics.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors developed a three-staged methodological context, based on the 7 most known centralized payment network (CPN) firms' website analytical data, which begins with linear regression analysis, followed by hybrid modeling (agent-based and dynamic models), so as to simulate brand engagement and vulnerability factors' variation in a 180-day period. The deployed context ends by applying the cognitive modeling method of producing heatmaps and facial analysis of CPN websites to the selected 47 vulnerable website customers, for gathering more insights into their brand engagement.

Findings

Throughout the simulation results of the study, it becomes clear that a higher number of backlinks and referral domains tend to increase CPN firms' brand-engaged and vulnerable customers.

Research limitations/implications

From the simulation modeling process, the implication for backlinks and referral domains as factors that enhance website customers' brand engagement and vulnerability has been highlighted. A higher number of brand-engaged website customers could mean that vulnerable categories of customers would be impacted by CPNs' affiliate marketing. Improving those customers' knowledge of the financial services utility is of utmost importance.

Practical implications

The outcomes of the research indicate that online banking service providers can increase their customers' engagement with their brands by adopting affiliate marketing techniques. To avoid the increase in customers' vulnerability, marketers should aim to apply affiliate marketing strategies to domains relevant to the provided financial services.

Originality/value

The paper's outcomes provide a new approach to the literature, where the website customer's brand engagement comes out as a valuable metric for estimating online banking sector customers' vulnerability.

Details

International Journal of Bank Marketing, vol. 42 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0265-2323

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 September 2024

M. Teresa Armijos and Viviana Ramirez Loaiza

In this paper we ask: “What are the opportunities and challenges that creative methods pose in terms of conducting research processes with indigenous peoples impacted by…

Abstract

Purpose

In this paper we ask: “What are the opportunities and challenges that creative methods pose in terms of conducting research processes with indigenous peoples impacted by emergencies and disasters?” To do that, we critically examine the creative and collaborative methodological approaches applied in the research project, Moving with Risk: Forced Displacement and Vulnerability in Colombia. This project sought to understand the trajectories of risk of families who were forcibly displaced as a result of the armed conflict in Colombia and resettled in areas at risk of disaster.

Design/methodology/approach

This article is intentionally written from the perspective of the researchers’ positionality. In doing so, we embrace writing that is situated and embodied in the researcher’s experiences and positionalities. This reflexive writing allows us to question the methodological experience of the research project we are analysing and, at the same time, ourselves, “the researchers” be questioned by it.

Findings

In this paper, we show how creative methods and participatory research can foster awareness and become the basis for inclusive and reciprocal research processes with indigenous communities in disaster studies. Specifically, we show that the use of creative methods helped us recognise that agency needs to be framed in collective spaces with the indigenous women we were working with and in relation to their livelihoods needs. We argue that finding spaces to conduct collaborative research and recognize agency is inextricably related to how the researchers reflect on their positionality.

Originality/value

This article contributes to critical perspectives in Disaster Studies and to an overall understanding of the role that creative methodologies play in research processes with people affected by disasters. It provides a novel perspective on the opportunities and challenges of applying arts-based methods in disaster risk studies with indigenous communities in Latin America.

Details

Disaster Prevention and Management: An International Journal, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0965-3562

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 August 2024

José Manuel De Haro and Julio Vena

This study aims to investigate the relationship between personality traits and innovative behaviour, using a mixed-methods approach to provide deeper insights into these dynamics.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship between personality traits and innovative behaviour, using a mixed-methods approach to provide deeper insights into these dynamics.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a mixed-methods approach, integrating fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) with traditional multiple linear regression analysis. This study was conducted among 76 university graduates, using the Big Five personality model and the Innovator DNA model to assess innovative behaviour.

Findings

The findings reveal significant positive correlations between conscientiousness, extraversion and innovative behaviour. The inclusion of fsQCA allowed for a more nuanced understanding of the complex interactions between personality traits and innovative behaviour, highlighting configurations of traits that traditional methods may overlook.

Research limitations/implications

This study's sample size and focus on university graduates may limit the generalisability of the findings. Future research should explore these relationships in more diverse populations and settings to enhance generalisability.

Practical implications

The insights gained from this study can inform the development of more effective talent management strategies, helping organisations to better align personality traits with roles that demand high innovation. This approach can optimise team composition and improve innovative output.

Social implications

Understanding the configurations of personality traits that lead to innovative behaviour can help educational institutions and organisations foster environments that support diverse and innovative thinking, ultimately contributing to societal progress.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the literature by demonstrating the efficacy of fsQCA in capturing the complexities of human behaviour, particularly in the context of personality traits influencing innovation. By combining qualitative and quantitative analyses, this study provides a comprehensive perspective that enhances both methodological rigour and the depth of understanding in psychological and innovation studies.

Details

International Journal of Organizational Analysis, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1934-8835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 August 2024

Iman Bashtani and Javad Abolfazli Esfahani

This study aims to introduce a novel machine learning feature vector (MLFV) method to bring machine learning to overcome the time-consuming computational fluid dynamics (CFD…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to introduce a novel machine learning feature vector (MLFV) method to bring machine learning to overcome the time-consuming computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations for rapidly predicting turbulent flow characteristics with acceptable accuracy.

Design/methodology/approach

In this method, CFD snapshots are encoded in a tensor as the input training data. Then, the MLFV learns the relationship between data with a rod filter, which is named feature vector, to learn features by defining functions on it. To demonstrate the accuracy of the MLFV, this method is used to predict the velocity, temperature and turbulent kinetic energy fields of turbulent flow passing over an innovative nature-inspired Dolphin turbulator based on only ten CFD data.

Findings

The results indicate that MLFV and CFD contours alongside scatter plots have a good agreement between predicted and solved data with R2 ≃ 1. Also, the error percentage contours and histograms reveal the high precisions of predictions with MAPE = 7.90E-02, 1.45E-02, 7.32E-02 and NRMSE = 1.30E-04, 1.61E-03, 4.54E-05 for prediction velocity, temperature, turbulent kinetic energy fields at Re = 20,000, respectively.

Practical implications

The method can have state-of-the-art applications in a wide range of CFD simulations with the ability to train based on small data, which is practical and logical regarding the number of required tests.

Originality/value

The paper introduces a novel, innovative and super-fast method named MLFV to address the time-consuming challenges associated with the traditional CFD approach to predict the physics of turbulent heat and fluid flow in real time with the superiority of training based on small data with acceptable accuracy.

Details

International Journal of Numerical Methods for Heat & Fluid Flow, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0961-5539

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 May 2024

Abhinandan Kulal, Abhishek Nanjundaswamy, Sahana Dinesh, Neethu Suraj and N. Mallika

The present research aimed to examine the role of FDP in enhancing the teachers' competencies through modern technological tools and innovative teaching methods. And also, to…

Abstract

Purpose

The present research aimed to examine the role of FDP in enhancing the teachers' competencies through modern technological tools and innovative teaching methods. And also, to evaluate the impact of FDPs on teachers' attitudes and motivation to integrate modern teaching innovations into their classroom practices.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a pre-post study design, the study was conducted in two phases, Phase I was conducted one week before conducting FDP (14th to 20th August 2023) and Phase II was conducted after one week of FDP (15th to 21st September 2023). The data were gathered through structured questionnaires from the participants in FDP and collected data were processed and analyzed through a statistical package for social sciences.

Findings

The study found that undergoing FDP by teachers significantly influences the adoption of advanced pedagogical approaches and technology integration during their teaching practice. This indirectly helps in promoting quality education at large and contributes to the UNSDG-4. The study also revealed that the effective FDP not only helps in advancing teaching methods but also influences instructors' philosophies and attitudes towards students' overall learning and development.

Practical implications

These findings have several key implications for higher education institutions, policymakers and teachers at large. Firstly, HEIs should prioritize undertaking FDPs that promote in adopting advanced pedagogical approaches. This indirectly equips the instructors with the knowledge and skills necessary to integrate modern teaching methods into their real classroom practices. Further, by adopting FDP as a strategic initiative to improve the quality of education and work by aligning these programs with broader SDG goals.

Originality/value

Advancing education for enhancing the overall quality of learning depends on the competencies of instructors. The competencies of instructors rely upon the involvement of instructors in life-long learning, level of adoption of technology, innovative approaches used, etc. This study may help higher education institutions adopt FDP as a strategic initiative to improve the quality of education and work by aligning these programs with broader SDG goals.

Details

Journal of Applied Research in Higher Education, vol. 16 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2050-7003

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 July 2024

Danish Kumar and Chengyi Zhang

The construction industry is a major contributor to global carbon emissions. This study investigates the role of procurement and contracting methods in carbon emission reduction…

Abstract

Purpose

The construction industry is a major contributor to global carbon emissions. This study investigates the role of procurement and contracting methods in carbon emission reduction (CER) in the construction industry. It also examines artificial intelligence’s (AI’s) potential to drive low-carbon practices, aiming to identify transformative policies and practices.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a qualitative methodology, engaging in semi-structured interviews with nine industry professionals alongside an innovative engagement with Generative Pre-trained Transformer (GPT) technology to gather insights into procurement and project delivery methods (PDM) role in CER. The study involved identifying patterns, organizing themes, and analyzing data to extract meaningful insights on effective policies and strategies for CER in the construction industry.

Findings

The results underscore the importance of early contractor involvement and integrated PDM for CER in construction. Results emphasize the pivotal role of project owners in directing projects toward sustainability, highlighting the need for client demand. The research identifies cost constraints, limited material availability, and human resource capacity as key barriers in the US. The study proposes innovative materials, financial incentives, education, and regulatory standards as effective interventions. It also explores the future use of AI in enhancing CER, suggesting new avenues for technological integration.

Originality/value

The study provides empirical insights into the role of procurement and PDM in CER within the US construction industry by using qualitative approach and use of a GPT. It underscores the interplay between contracting methods, stakeholder engagement, and AI’s emerging role, for enhancing policies and practices to decarbonize the US construction industry.

Details

Built Environment Project and Asset Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2044-124X

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 4000