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1 – 10 of 27
Article
Publication date: 9 April 2024

Marco Savastano, Isabelle Biclesanu, Sorin Anagnoste, Francesco Laviola and Nicola Cucari

The contemporary business environment is characterised by an increasing reliance on artificial intelligence, automation, optimisation, efficient communication and data-driven…

Abstract

Purpose

The contemporary business environment is characterised by an increasing reliance on artificial intelligence, automation, optimisation, efficient communication and data-driven decision making. Based on the limited academic literature that examines the managerial perspective on enterprise chatbots, the paper aims to explore organisational needs and expectations for enterprise chatbots from a managerial perspective, assesses the relationship between managerial knowledge and managerial opinion regarding enterprise chatbots, and delivers a framework for integrating chatbots into the digital workforce.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a quantitative design. An online, self-administered survey yielded 111 valid responses from managers in service and manufacturing organisations based on convenience and snowball sampling strategies. Given the nature of the data and the research questions, the research was conducted using principal component analysis, parallel analysis, correlation, internal consistency and difference in means tests.

Findings

This research explores the managerial perspective on enterprise chatbots from multiple perspectives (i.e., adoption, suitability, development requirements, benefits, barriers, performance and implications), presents a heat map of the average level of chatbot need across industries and business units, highlights the urgent need for education and training initiatives targeted at decision makers, and provides a strategic framework for successful chatbot implementation.

Practical implications

This study equips managers and practitioners dealing with enterprise chatbots with knowledge to effectively leverage the expected benefits of investing in this technology for their organisations. It offers direction for developers in designing chatbots that align with organisational expectations, capabilities and skills.

Originality/value

Insights for managers, researchers and chatbot developers are provided. The work complements the few academic studies that examine enterprise chatbots from a managerial perspective and enriches related commercial studies with more rigourous statistical analysis. The paper contributes to the ongoing discourse on decision-making in the context of technology development, integration and education.

Details

Management Decision, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

Abstract

Details

Mixed-Income Housing Development Planning Strategies and Frameworks in the Global South
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83753-814-0

Content available
Book part
Publication date: 14 December 2023

George Okechukwu Onatu, Wellington Didibhuku Thwala and Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa

Abstract

Details

Mixed-Income Housing Development Planning Strategies and Frameworks in the Global South
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83753-814-0

Article
Publication date: 1 May 2023

Md. Touhidul Islam

This study’s goal is to research and describe developing green technology and green business models, as well as their commercial advantages. However, it focuses on how old…

Abstract

Purpose

This study’s goal is to research and describe developing green technology and green business models, as well as their commercial advantages. However, it focuses on how old business breakthroughs and models may be transformed into new green technologies and innovations that can affect the global business environment. This research concentrates on the technology component of green technologies and provides information on a variety of relevant emerging green business models and innovations such as energy efficiency, renewable energy consumption, commodities and systems, environmental protection, nontoxic materials, and waste minimization, among others. Additionally, this research connects Emerging Green Technology (EGT) innovations to the business for sustainability. It also emphasizes the advantages of green technology adoption in business specially in developing economies.

Design/methodology/approach

For that purpose, a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) was performed based on the “inclusion/exclusion criteria” and “PRISMA flow diagram method”. The first screening and quality evaluation rejected 67 publications, 8 in eligibility and 10 in credibility. In the subsequent round, 45 papers out of 210 that met the search parameters were included to access the findings.

Findings

This study provides a foundation for future research into sustainable economic potential by examining the development, breakthroughs, obstacles, future trends and new research prospects of EGTs. As such, this research will serve as a helpful resource for economically growing nations looking to foster long-term growth in their businesses through sustainable development strategies.

Research limitations/implications

The first limitation of the study is the generalization of the findings. The sample size of the study is limited. For that purpose, an SLR and “PRISMA flow diagram” methods were performed by “inclusion/exclusion criteria” for literature review. Except these, there are many new techniques of SLR. Further research with more sampling and sophisticated tests could produce better results for this study.

Practical implications

This research provides valuable insights for businesses and politicians seeking to protect the environment, promote economic growth and create a sustainable society. The findings will be particularly useful for emerging nations grappling with issues related to technical innovation, safe environmental practices, reliable renewable energy sources, and ecological and economic growth.

Originality/value

This study’s findings will aid in the design and implementation of new green technology and innovations in current businesses, which will assist in limiting climate change and eventually affect their move to sustainable growth paradigms. For emerging nations, this study will be useful in addressing issues about technical innovation, safe environmental conditions, reliable renewable energy sources as well as ecological and economic growth. According to our research results, the authorities of developing nations would gain from utilizing green business models and technology to spur economic development. Our findings should thus add to the current body of knowledge.

Article
Publication date: 18 May 2022

Dinuja Perera, Parmod Chand and Rajni Mala

The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has justified the simplification of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) for small- and medium-sized enterprises…

Abstract

Purpose

The International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) has justified the simplification of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) for small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in several ways, but no effective justification for this simplification has been made based on the information needs of users. This study aims to provide empirical evidence of the decision usefulness of IFRS for SMEs from a prominent user group of SME financial statements – the banks.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a mixed-method approach. First, a survey was conducted on commercial bank lending officers to assess the usefulness of different disclosure items included in the SME financial statements. Second, semi-structured interviews were conducted with commercial bank lending officers to gain an in-depth insight into the appropriateness and economic consequences of the requirements of IFRS for SMEs on their lending decisions.

Findings

The findings show that commercial bank lending officers did not consider all the disclosure requirements presented to them to be equally important. Hence, to facilitate the actual needs of the users’ decision usefulness, it is imperative that when given the opportunity, users participate in the development of accounting standards.

Originality/value

The findings of this study will be of interest to accounting regulators for evaluating the successful implementation of IFRS for SMEs and planning the next review of IFRS for SMEs. The IASB and SME Implementation Group are presently considering ways to increase user involvement for the next review of IFRS for SMEs, and the findings of this study signify the need for user involvement in the standard setting process.

Details

Meditari Accountancy Research, vol. 31 no. 5
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2049-372X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 27 April 2022

Massimiliano Vesci, Antonio Botti, Rosangela Feola, Emanuela Conti and Ayman El Tarabishy

Humane entrepreneurship (HumEnt) has been theoretically proposed as a new model of entrepreneurship supporting the idea of an enlarged entrepreneurial strategic posture. The aim…

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Abstract

Purpose

Humane entrepreneurship (HumEnt) has been theoretically proposed as a new model of entrepreneurship supporting the idea of an enlarged entrepreneurial strategic posture. The aim of paper is to frame humane entrepreneurial orientation’s (HEO) characteristics by showing how firms apply the HumEnt approach, and to offer suggestions to build an HEO measurement scale.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a case study approach, focusing on five Italian small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Findings

The study (1) identifies which are the characteristics of HEO strategic posture in the enterprises under examination; (2) shows that entrepreneurs' personal values and credos are fundamental to having an HEO strategic posture adopted; (3) provides indications on the development of a measurement scale through a discussion of emerging HEO themes.

Originality/value

The value of the study is that emerging themes of HEO strategic posture was derived from the analysis of five Italian SMEs. Entrepreneur's personal values have been proven to be relevant in the implementation of HEO. Based on the emerging HEO themes, the study contributes to the literature opening the way toward the building of an all-encompassing HEO measurement scale.

Details

Journal of Small Business and Enterprise Development, vol. 30 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1462-6004

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 10 November 2023

Helen Poltimäe, Kärt Rõigas and Anneli Lorenz

The purpose of this paper is to identify how different factors of antecedents and processes affect the outcomes of an internship, measured in terms of competency development.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify how different factors of antecedents and processes affect the outcomes of an internship, measured in terms of competency development.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used an internship questionnaire designed for the University of Tartu in Estonia. Responses were obtained from 178 students across different disciplines – humanities and the arts, social sciences, natural sciences and medicine – who had recently taken an internship. Based on current academic literature, the authors create a three-level model: antecedents-processes-outcomes. The antecedents and processes were both differentiated into three factors and tested with a structural equation model.

Findings

The model demonstrates that there are different antecedents that have an effect on internship outcomes, but these only work through internship processes. For example, the objective of the internship and clarity of instructions will only have a positive effect if there is relevant support from the supervisor at the employing company and if the student can use the knowledge and skills gained at university.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based on survey data filled in by students, i.e. based on self-perception. Based on the results of the study, the authors claim that an active role and initiative-taking by students in finding suitable internships should be further encouraged.

Originality/value

Whilst previous studies have used a two-level model of internship (or a three-level model for students satisfaction as an outcome) the authors create and test a three-level model measuring competency development as the outcome of an internship.

Details

Education + Training, vol. 65 no. 10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0040-0912

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 May 2023

Megan Lee, Tyra Byers and Alyssa Powell

This study aims to examine factors that impact participation of diverse university students in an academic sustainability certificate and Office of Sustainability internships at…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine factors that impact participation of diverse university students in an academic sustainability certificate and Office of Sustainability internships at the University of Georgia, recognizing the need for diverse voices and perspectives in addressing sustainability challenges and the current lack of diverse representation in the field.

Design/methodology/approach

A convenience sample of 77 student organizations and 35 departments, schools and colleges associated with the university was identified. The questionnaire was created using the Qualtrics online survey platform and distributed via email to potential participants. A total of 234 completed responses were collected. Descriptive statistics were calculated to determine the demographic composition of the sample. One-way ANOVAs were performed to examine the relationship between respondent demographics and perceptions of sustainability and participation in campus sustainability programs. Post hoc tests were conducted using Fisher’s least significant difference procedure.

Findings

Significant relationships were observed between perceptions of sustainability and race and current gender. A significant relationship was observed between race and participation in campus sustainability programs. Overall, students from diverse backgrounds believe that sustainability efforts contribute to racial justice and equity. Additionally, students from diverse backgrounds do want to participate in campus sustainability programs; however, there may be barriers preventing their participation.

Originality/value

This study examines how students from diverse backgrounds perceive sustainability efforts, as well as their interest in participating in campus sustainability programs. The results of this study can be used to inform recruitment and program development strategies for sustainability programs at higher education institutions. At the time of publication, no study could be located that examines the current study outcomes.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 24 January 2024

Kanokpan Wiboolyasarin, Watcharapol Wiboolyasarin, Ruedee Kamonsawad, Phornrat Tiranant, Poomipat Boonyakitanont and Nattawut Jinowat

The use of three-dimensional virtual worlds (3DVWs) is increasingly becoming a common practice in language education to provide digital learning environments for second-language…

Abstract

Purpose

The use of three-dimensional virtual worlds (3DVWs) is increasingly becoming a common practice in language education to provide digital learning environments for second-language (L2) communicative classes. This study aimed to identify the key factors underlying communication in 3DVWs that can improve the communication skills of L2 learners.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve this, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were conducted to validate the identified factors affecting communication in 3DVWs. A self-reported questionnaire with 47 items on a five-point Likert scale was administered to 513 pre-service teachers, teachers and lecturers in the field of language education.

Findings

The results of the EFA revealed four factors that contribute to communication in 3DVWs, namely learner motivation, interaction pattern, language development and learner autonomy. CFA results provided support for the updated model, with statistically significant Chi-square results (χ² (df = 83) = 181.049, p < 0.001) indicating a good fit between the model and the data.

Originality/value

The findings suggest that the four EFA-derived parameters are valid and can assist instructional designers and L2 instructors in creating 3DVWs that enhance L2 learners' communication abilities. This study provides valuable insights for educators, instructional designers and researchers in the field of language education and technology-enhanced learning.

Details

The International Journal of Information and Learning Technology, vol. 41 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2056-4880

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 November 2023

Cristalan Ness

Recent library and information science literature suggests transgender and nonbinary populations are not treated, served and represented on an equal or equitable basis as…

Abstract

Purpose

Recent library and information science literature suggests transgender and nonbinary populations are not treated, served and represented on an equal or equitable basis as cisgender populations are in libraries. This article aims to assess the prevalence of bias and inclusion efforts in Illinois libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

This quantitative, cross-sectional, descriptive study utilizes a critical queer theory lens and includes a Likert scale survey with a demographic question on gender identity to measure four constructs and determine if there is a relationship between gender identity and bias, inclusion efforts, and knowledge of transgender and nonbinary user needs.

Findings

Results suggest respondents' biases reinforce structural cisgenderism in Illinois libraries and may account for the unequal conditions trans and nonbinary populations experience. Additionally, there is a correlation between cisgender-identifying Illinois LIS professionals and biased attitudes and behaviors, use of inclusive practices, and knowledge of transgender and nonbinary user needs.

Originality/value

This study contributes quantitative data, analysis and practical implications to a body of predominantly qualitative library literature on transgender and gender diverse experiences in libraries.

Details

Reference Services Review, vol. 52 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0090-7324

Keywords

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