Search results

41 – 50 of 59
Article
Publication date: 12 January 2018

Alan Kerr and Diane Rasmussen Pennington

The purpose of this paper is to examine current public library apps in Scotland and assess Scottish public library users’ opinions of those apps.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine current public library apps in Scotland and assess Scottish public library users’ opinions of those apps.

Design/methodology/approach

Two qualitative and quantitative surveys were conducted. One survey was distributed to each Scottish local authority, the entities responsible for public libraries and Scotland. The second survey was made available to the public. The results were analysed with nonparametric statistics and content analysis.

Findings

All 32 authorities responded. In all, 17 authorities had an app, two had one in development, and 13 had none. Offering an alternative means of communication to patrons was the main reason for providing an app, while cost and low priority were the main reasons provided against app provision. Authorities were satisfied with the core services offered in their apps, but less so with others. No authorities had consulted the public regarding app provision. The public (n=185), while satisfied with current library apps, criticised the complex procedures required to access external services. Patrons from authorities without an app stated interest in apps.

Research limitations/implications

It is vital for public libraries to implement at least core services that are optimised for mobile devices. They should consult with the public before and throughout the development process to ensure they are happy with the implementation.

Originality/value

This is the first known study to explore public library app use in Scotland as well as one of the first in public library app use worldwide.

Details

Library Hi Tech, vol. 36 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0737-8831

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 November 2022

Rajat Kumar Behera, Pradip Kumar Bala and Nripendra P. Rana

The new ways to complete financial transactions have been developed by setting up mobile payment (m-payment) platforms and such platforms to access banking in the financial…

1354

Abstract

Purpose

The new ways to complete financial transactions have been developed by setting up mobile payment (m-payment) platforms and such platforms to access banking in the financial mainstream can transact as never before. But, does m-payment have veiled consequences? To seek an answer, the research was undertaken to explore the dark sides of m-payment for consumers by extending the theory of innovation resistance (IR) and by measuring non-adoption intention (NAI).

Design/methodology/approach

Three hundred individuals using popular online m-payment apps such as Paytm, PhonePe, Amazon Pay and Google Pay were surveyed for the primary data. IBM AMOS based structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to analyse the data.

Findings

Each m-payment transaction leaves a digital record, making some vulnerable consumers concerned about privacy threats. Lack of global standards prevents consumers from participating in the m-payment system properly until common interfaces are established based on up-to-date standards. Self-compassion (SC) characteristics such as anxiety, efficacy, fatigue, wait-and-see tendencies and the excessive choice of technology effect contribute to the non-adoption of m-payment.

Originality/value

This study proposes a threat model and empirically explores the dark sides of m-payment. In addition, it also unveils the moderator's role of SC in building the structural relationship between IR and NAI.

Details

Information Technology & People, vol. 36 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-3845

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 October 2006

Martin Livette

In this paper culture is considered by marketers to have a profound influence on consumer behaviour, yet explanations of tenure preference ignore or dismiss culture as a factor…

1222

Abstract

Purpose

In this paper culture is considered by marketers to have a profound influence on consumer behaviour, yet explanations of tenure preference ignore or dismiss culture as a factor underlying such preferences. This paper therefore aims to examine the attitudes of retirement housing purchasers to tenure, the effect of culture on these attitudes, and contrast some of the results of the research.

Design/methodology/approach

In the paper data were collected by questionnaire. A sample of about 200 respondents was selected from all purchasers of retirement housing in the West Midlands region of the UK.

Findings

The findings in this paper demonstrate that culture is an important factor affecting retirement housing purchasers' attitudes to housing tenure and that home ownership is part of their way of life.

Originality/value

It is argued in this paper that culture cannot be dismissed or ignored when debating the tenure preferences of older people and the factors affecting these preferences; and that it is probably the prime factor underlying a “natural preference” for home ownership.

Details

Property Management, vol. 24 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-7472

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 September 2021

Olu Oludele Akinloye Akinboade, Trevor Taft, Johann Friedrich Weber, Obareng Baldwin Manoko and Victor Sannyboy Molobi

This paper aims to understand social entrepreneurship (SE) business model design to create values whilst undertaking public service delivery within the complex environments of…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to understand social entrepreneurship (SE) business model design to create values whilst undertaking public service delivery within the complex environments of local governments in South Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

Face-to-face semi-structured interview was conducted with 15 purposively selected social entrepreneurs in Gauteng and Western Cape provinces. The interview guide consisted of main themes and follow-up questions. Themes included SEs’ general history, the social business model; challenges faced and how these were overcome; scaling and growth/survival strategies. These enabled the evaluation of SEs in terms of identifying key criteria of affordability, availability, awareness and acceptability, which SEs must achieve to operate successfully in low-income markets. Social enterprise owners/managers within the electricity distribution, water reticulation and waste management services sectors were surveyed.

Findings

Most respondents focus on building a network of trust with stakeholders, through communication mechanisms that emphasize high-frequency engagements. There is also a strong focus on design-thinking and customer-centric approaches that strengthen value creation. The value creation process used both product value and service value mechanisms and emphasized quality and excellence to provide stakeholder, as well as societal value, within their specific contexts.

Practical implications

This study builds upon other research that emphasizes SEs’ customer-centric approaches to strengthen value creation and on building a network of trust with multiple stakeholders. It contributes to emphasizing the business paradigm shift towards bringing social values to the business practice.

Social implications

Social good, but resource providers are demanding more concrete evidence to help them understand their impact (Struthers, 2013). This is because it is intrinsically difficult for many social organizations to document and communicate their impact in more than an anecdotal way. The research has contributed to the understanding of how SEs can provide evidence of value creation.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the understanding of how business models are designed to create value within the context of the overwhelming complexity of local government services in South Africa.

Details

Journal of Entrepreneurship in Emerging Economies, vol. 15 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2053-4604

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 September 2023

Bunga Astria Paramashanti, Yhona Paratmanitya, Ignasia Ika Kusumaningtyas, Tri Mei Khasana, Anafrin Yugistyowati and Tri Siswati

This study aims to examine the association between minimum dietary diversity (MDD) and the concurrence of stunting and overweight (CSO) among children aged 6–23 months.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the association between minimum dietary diversity (MDD) and the concurrence of stunting and overweight (CSO) among children aged 6–23 months.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Sedayu Subdistrict, Bantul District, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta. The authors assessed the concurrence of stunting (height-for-age Z-score below −2 standard deviations SD) and overweight/obesity (Body mass index BMI-for-age Z-score above +2 SD) among a total of 189 children aged 6–23 months as the primary outcome. The authors defined MDD as consuming at least four out of seven food groups using a single 24-h recall. The authors also included other covariates, including sociodemographic characteristics, exclusive breastfeeding history and complementary feeding practices. To identify the factors associated with CSO, this study conducted multiple logistic regression across the study variables using STATA 16.1.

Findings

In the adjusted model, children who met the MDD criterion were associated with a reduced risk of CSO (adjusted odds ratios [OR]: 0.14; 95%confidence interval CI: 0.03–2.43). Compared to boys, girls were more likely to experience CSO (adjusted OR: 5.23; 95%CI: 1.02–26.9). Middle economic status was a protective factor for CSO (adjusted OR: 0.10; 95%CI: 0.01–0.98). This study did not find a significant relationship between CSO and the child’s age, low birth weight, exclusive breastfeeding, energy intake, protein intake, parental education and parental occupation.

Practical implications

This study suggests future programs and policies that promote dietary diversity to reduce the risk of CSO.

Originality/value

This study reveals the association between MDD and the coexistence of stunting and overweight.

Details

Nutrition & Food Science , vol. 54 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0034-6659

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 October 2023

Irfan Hameed, Umair Akram and Arif Ashraf

Mobile phone payment is a significant advancement in e-commerce and retailing. This study aims to look at the influencing factors for the attainment or letdown of mobile payment…

Abstract

Purpose

Mobile phone payment is a significant advancement in e-commerce and retailing. This study aims to look at the influencing factors for the attainment or letdown of mobile payment systems (MPS). The coping theory (CP) and innovation resistance theory (IRT) components were applied in the tourism sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were gathered from 402 tourists who utilized MPS for the first time to book their vacation. In a longitudinal study, an online questionnaire was used to contact clients of several travel businesses to predict their intentions and behavior. Covariance-based structure equation modeling (CB-SEM) was applied using IBM-SPSS AMOS to analyze the data.

Findings

CP factors provided highly thought-provoking results, calling into question several apparent beliefs. At the same time, the relationships covering the aspects of the IRT were supported. It has also been found that intentions are a valid predictor of behavior.

Practical implications

The study's findings can be used by governments, media houses, hotels and travel and tourism agencies, particularly in developing countries like Malaysia.

Originality/value

This study adds to the existing literature by offering a complete model that demonstrates the influence of conceptualizations utilized from the most robust theories connected to technology toward MPS for trip reservations from the perspective of developing countries. Importantly, this study measures the consumers' continuous buying behavior by employing a longitudinal research design.

Details

Kybernetes, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0368-492X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 December 2021

Tat-Huei Cham, Jun-Hwa Cheah, Boon-Liat Cheng and Xin-Jean Lim

Since its inception, mobile payment is rapidly gaining popularity over the years, and starting to replace traditional modes of payment. The usage of mobile payments has further…

3895

Abstract

Purpose

Since its inception, mobile payment is rapidly gaining popularity over the years, and starting to replace traditional modes of payment. The usage of mobile payments has further escalated following various precautionary measures (i.e. social distancing) in curbing the transmission of the COVID-19 outbreak. However, most of the elderlies are still sceptical about the usage of mobile payment services. The current study was set to investigate the impact of functional, psychological and risk barriers that resulted in elderlies' resistance towards using such services. The impact of stickiness to cash was also examined as a moderator on the investigated relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Online survey questionnaires were used to collect the responses from 400 elderly consumers at the age of 60 and above. Data analysis was then performed using the SPSS and AMOS statistical software packages.

Findings

Findings obtained acknowledged the significance of functional (i.e. perceived complexity, perceived incompatibility and perceived cost), psychological (i.e. lack of trust, inertia, and technological anxiety) and risk (i.e. privacy risk, security risk, financial risk and operational risk) barriers in influencing resistance towards mobile payment services among the elderlies. Consequently, resistance would influence their attitude and non-adoption intention; with attitude as the mediator between resistance and non-adoption intention. Finally, moderation analysis also confirmed the moderating effect of stickiness to cash towards elevating the correlation between resistance and non-adoption intention.

Originality/value

This study is one of the very few studies that explored the minimally investigated territory on the consequential importance of mobile payment usage among the elderlies, specifically, through extending the literature on the impact of functional, psychological and risk barriers towards the individuals' resistance. Besides, this study also successfully contributed to existing body of knowledge by highlighting the mediating role of attitude and moderating role of stickiness to cash in the interrelationships between resistance, attitude and non-adoption intention.

Details

International Journal of Bank Marketing, vol. 40 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0265-2323

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 17 June 2011

Jonathan Webster

This paper seeks to demonstrate the role of person‐centred assessment in improving the standard of care for people with dementia in acute hospitals.

1992

Abstract

Purpose

This paper seeks to demonstrate the role of person‐centred assessment in improving the standard of care for people with dementia in acute hospitals.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper offers a review of recent research and literature on person centred care highlighting its role in acute hospital settings. Case studies are also used by way of illustration.

Findings

Acute hospitals are inherently complex environments which pose particular challenges for the care and management of people with dementia. Evidence drawn from the literature and recent research suggests that person‐centred assessment has the capacity to enhance the quality of care for people with dementia and improve outcomes. Patients who are understood, listened to, and responded to tend to display lower levels of challenging behaviour, are calmer, more receptive to accepting treatment and have higher levels of well being. Although experienced nurses working in acute wards often have in‐depth knowledge of older peoples' health‐related needs, a reliance on inflexible “assessment frameworks” can distract them from focusing on the individual. The routinised nature of many ward environments, shift patterns, high staff turnover and weak clinical leadership also act as barriers. Person‐centred assessment can be employed to identify the needs of people with dementia based upon their life history and patterns of daily living; it can also underpin the design and delivery of person‐centred care and treatment throughout their hospital stay.

Originality/value

The capacity of person‐centred care to improve care suggests that it needs to be embedded in gerontological nursing practice in acute hospital settings as a clinical and managerial priority.

Details

Quality in Ageing and Older Adults, vol. 12 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1471-7794

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 July 2013

Jan Brace‐Govan

An important concept for social marketing, role modelling has rarely been considered in detail. Instead the focus often lies with celebrity endorsement and has tended to be about…

1663

Abstract

Purpose

An important concept for social marketing, role modelling has rarely been considered in detail. Instead the focus often lies with celebrity endorsement and has tended to be about product sales rather than behaviour change. The purpose of this paper is to suggest that the role model is complex and offers a typology to identify variations that need consideration by social marketers in selecting the most appropriate role model. Gen Y provides a context for this discussion because they are a significant target market for social marketers.

Design/methodology/approach

The article evaluates four theoretical perspectives of role modelling. Following this, an assessment is made of the types of interaction that can be instigated by role modelling variations.

Findings

Social marketers often use role models in behaviour change interventions. The typology of role model interactions offers a starting point for research and a more nuanced view of role modelling.

Originality/value

The design of role modelling programs is under‐researched. Through the provision of a typology of role model interaction the article begins to address this gap.

Details

Journal of Social Marketing, vol. 3 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-6763

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 March 2023

N.T. Khuong Truong, Susan J. Smith, Gavin Wood, William A.V. Clark, William Lisowski and Rachel Ong ViforJ

The purpose of this paper is to consider one test of a well-functioning housing system – its impact on wellbeing. Exploring one indicator of this, this study aims to track changes…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider one test of a well-functioning housing system – its impact on wellbeing. Exploring one indicator of this, this study aims to track changes in mental and general health across a mix of tenure transitions and financial transactions in three jurisdictions: Australia, the UK and the USA.

Design/methodology/approach

Using matched variables from three national panel surveys (Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia, British Household Panel Survey/Understanding Society and Panel Study of Income Dynamics) over 17 years (2000–2017) to capture the sweep of the most recent housing cycle, this study adopts a difference-in-difference random-effects model specification to estimate the mental and general health effects of tenure change and borrowing behaviours.

Findings

There is an enduring health premium associated with unmortgaged owner-occupation. Mortgage debt detracts from this, as does the prospect of dropping out of ownership and into renting. A previously observed post-exit recovery in mental health – a debt-relief effect – is not present in the longer run. In fact, in some circumstances, both mental and general health deficits are amplified, even among those who eventually regain homeownership. Though there are cross-country differences, the similarities across these financialised housing systems are more striking.

Practical implications

The well-being premium traditionally associated with owner occupation is under threat at the edges of the sector in all three jurisdictions. In this, there is cross-national convergence. There may therefore be scope to introduce policies to better support households at the edges of ownership that work across the board for debt-funded ownership-centred housing systems.

Originality/value

This paper extends the duration of a previous analysis of the impact of tenure transitions and financial transactions on well-being at the edges of ownership in the UK and Australia. The authors now track households over nearly two decades from the start of the millennium into a lengthy (post-global financial crisis) era of declining housing affordability. This study adds to the reach of the earlier study by adding a general health variable and a third jurisdiction, the USA.

Details

International Journal of Housing Markets and Analysis, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8270

Keywords

41 – 50 of 59