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Article
Publication date: 30 July 2024

Harini K.N. and Manoj T. Thomas

Over the years, the impact of the business cycle on firm strategy has been neglected in the area of strategic management and remains one of the most important but least developed…

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Abstract

Purpose

Over the years, the impact of the business cycle on firm strategy has been neglected in the area of strategic management and remains one of the most important but least developed research streams in management scholarship. Studies in this area are scattered across time and domains, therefore, there is a need to consolidate this fragmented literature to provide a comprehensive review and thus avenues for further research. This study aims to address this gap.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, the systematic literature review (SLR) method is used to select and examine research articles in the area of firm responses and decisions during recession. This SLR examines 127 studies and carries out a thematic synthesis of the literature.

Findings

Based on the SLR and thematic synthesis of the literature, the themes identified in this study include – severity of recession impact (Theme 1); firm specific characteristics (Theme 2); resource adjustment activities (Theme 3); and firm performance (Theme 4), based on these themes and analysis this paper maps and proposes various relationships and linkages in this research domain that can be explored further for the development of scholarship in this field of study.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills the need for a systematic review of the extant literature on firms’ responses during recession. The study synthesizes literature and carries out a thematic analysis from 1980 till the period February 2024 to provide directions to advance this domain of literature.

Details

Journal of Business & Industrial Marketing, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0885-8624

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 22 July 2024

Matthew Osivue Ikuabe, Clinton Aigbavboa, Chimay Anumba and Ayodeji Emmanuel Oke

Cyber-physical systems (CPS) offer improved delivery of facilities management (FM) mandates through their advanced computational capabilities. Using second-order multivariate…

Abstract

Purpose

Cyber-physical systems (CPS) offer improved delivery of facilities management (FM) mandates through their advanced computational capabilities. Using second-order multivariate analysis, this study explores the drivers of the espousal of this digital technology for FM.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a deductive approach underpinned by a post-positivist philosophical stance using a quantitative technique aided by a well-structured questionnaire. Data retrieved from the study’s respondents were analysed with descriptive statistics, Kruskal–Wallis h-test, exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis.

Findings

The result of the analysis conducted portrayed evidence of convergence and good measures while the estimated model parameters all attained prescribed fit indexes. Also, it was revealed that the most influential drivers for the uptake of CPS for FM mandates are resource allocation for system procurement, top management willingness, system stability and compatibility with the previous system.

Practical implications

The study’s findings unravel the necessitated parameters that would instigate the adoption of CPS for the delivery of FM activities by organisations while also propelling the digital transformation of construction project delivery at the post-occupancy phase.

Originality/value

This is the first study to empirically assess the propelling measures for incorporating CPS for FM using second-order multivariate analysis. Consequently, the study's outcome helps close this knowledge gap.

Details

Smart and Sustainable Built Environment, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2046-6099

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 December 2023

Vaishali Dhiman and Manpreet Arora

Foresight J's journey started in 1999, and in 2022, it marked the conclusion of its 24 years of publication. This paper aims to provide an overall overview of important research…

Abstract

Purpose

Foresight J's journey started in 1999, and in 2022, it marked the conclusion of its 24 years of publication. This paper aims to provide an overall overview of important research trends published in Foresight J between 1999 and 2022 by conducting a quantitative analysis of the journal’s literature. The overarching goal is to provide valuable insights into the dynamics of scholarly communication, aiding researchers, institutions and policymakers in assessing the significance and influence of academic work, guiding future research directions and academic evaluation.

Design/methodology/approach

The two bibliometrics methodologies that make up the methodology of this article are scientific mapping and performance analysis. Authors have explained the development and composition of the Foresight J using these methods. The SCOPUS database is being used in current research to analyse several dimensions, such as the evolution of publications by year, the most cited papers, core authors and researchers, leading countries and prolific institutions. Moreover, the conceptual structure, scope, burst detection and co-occurrence analysis of the journal are mapped using network visualization software such as VOSviewer, CiteSpace and RStudio.

Findings

With a strong track record of output over the years, Foresight J has continued to develop in terms of publications. It is determined that “Saritas” is the author with the greatest overall impact. However, according to SCOPUS bibliometric data, “Blackman” and “Richardson” are the authors with the greatest relevance in terms of the quantity of articles. In addition, it becomes apparent that the USA, Australia and the UK are very productive nations in terms of publications. The most popular fields of the journal have always been forecasting, foresight, scenario planning, strategic planning, decision-making, technology and sustainable development. These are also the author keywords that appear the most frequently. In contrast, new study themes in the Foresight J include digital technologies, innovation, sustainability, blockchain, artificial intelligence and sustainability.

Research limitations/implications

Several noteworthy research implications are provided by the bibliometric study of Foresight J. “Saritas” is the author with the most overall impact, indicating that the precise contributions and influence of this researcher in the fields of forecasting, foresight and related fields. Given that “Blackman” and “Richardson” are well-known writers, it is also critical to examine the scope and complexity of their contributions to potentially identify recurring themes or patterns in their writing. The geographic productivity results, which show that the USA, Australia and the UK are the top three countries for Foresight J publications, may encourage more research into regional differences, patterns of collaboration and the worldwide distribution of research endeavours in the context of forecasting and foresight. Popular fields including scenario planning, forecasting, foresight and sustainable development are consistent, indicating persistent research interests. Examining the causes of these subjects’ ongoing relevance can reveal information about the consistency and development of scholarly interests over time.

Practical implications

Foresight J’s bibliometric analysis has real-world applications for many stakeholders. It helps editors and publishers make strategic decisions about outreach and content by providing insights regarding the journal’s influence. Assessing organizational and author productivity helps institutions allocate resources more effectively. Policymakers acquire an instrument to evaluate research patterns and distribute funds efficiently. In general, bibliometric study of a journal helps decisionmakers in academic publishing make well-informed choices that maximize the potential of options for authors, editors, institutions and policymakers.

Social implications

The societal ramifications of bibliometrically analysing Foresight J from 1999 and 2022 are substantial. This analysis highlights, over the past 24 years, research trends, technological developments and societal priorities have changed by methodically looking through the journal’s articles. Gaining knowledge about the academic environment covered by the journal can help raise public awareness of important topics and promote critical thinking. In addition, the analysis can support evidence-based decision-making by alerting decision makers to the influential research that was published in Foresight J. This could have an impact on the course of policies pertaining to innovation, technology and societal development.

Originality/value

This study presents a first comprehensive article that provides a general overview of the main trends and patterns of the research over the Foresight J’s history since its inception. Also, the paper will help the scientific community to know the value and impact of Foresight J.

Details

foresight, vol. 26 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1463-6689

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 6 August 2024

Victoria Valdebenito, Isabel Benjumeda, Valentina Hadler and Sofía Guzmán

Although our understanding of mental health and well-being is continually evolving, certain populations such as individuals deprived of liberty remain understudied and…

Abstract

Purpose

Although our understanding of mental health and well-being is continually evolving, certain populations such as individuals deprived of liberty remain understudied and stigmatized. Despite ongoing research in various countries, mental health exploration in Chile lags behind nations like the USA. Recognizing this gap, this study aims to address this disparity by analyzing subjective well-being and mental health levels within a Chilean prison setting in the postpandemic context.

Design/methodology/approach

Design was nonexperimental, cross-sectional, descriptive and relational using quantitative techniques. Data was collected using Ryff and brief DASS-21 scales into three different sections of the studied prison. In total, 97 people participated. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis.

Findings

Levels of subjective well-being range from mild to low, with best scores in environmental mastery and worst in autonomy. Women obtained best scores on purpose in life and positive relations with others. Mental health levels measured in terms of anxiety, depression and stress showed worst levels in males. A positive correlation was observed between mental health and substance use and between mental health and violence.

Research limitations/implications

Answers depend on the victim's report, which is biased by its interpretation, along with fearing consequences from the answers and distrust in authorities. This can lead to altered (unrealistic) values in relation to substance use, violence suffered and levels of subjective well-being, among others. Another limitation is the number of participants of this study, along with the fact that it was carried out in only one penitentiary center in Chile.

Practical implications

A challenge and a practical implication of this study is the need to do more work to promote mental health and well-being. Specifically, within this limited context where survey can send bias responses, a challenge is to work and promote mental health from a gender a perspective.

Social implications

Results presented here also highlight the relevance of studying in depth prisoners’ mental health, considering gender differences across well-being and mental health variables. Moreover, it shows the importance and urgence to advance in respecting human rights, as democratic and diverse societies, and in terms of ethical aspects linked to research of this type in vulnerable populations like prisoners.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the understanding on the intricated interplay between subjective well-being, mental health and various factors within prison environments, offering valuable insights for targeted interventions and policy considerations.

Details

International Journal of Prison Health, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2977-0254

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 September 2024

Sonali Singh and Sridhar Manohar

Education is one among the major service sectors which is continuously growing and contributing significantly to a country’s economy. Students’ positive feedback through…

Abstract

Purpose

Education is one among the major service sectors which is continuously growing and contributing significantly to a country’s economy. Students’ positive feedback through word-of-mouth (WOM) is one of the key influences attracting new admissions thereby providing competitive advantage for a university to sustain. There are numerous antecedents identified and implemented to enhance positive WOM and increase intakes in higher education however the students’ choice is still being unpredicted. This study attempts to develop a framework that exemplifies the links between service quality (SQ), relational trust (RT) and students' attitudes toward institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

A correlational research design was adopted with a non-probability convenience sampling technique, the data were collected from students in public and private higher education institutions (HEIs) across India. Multivariate regression was the statistical tool used to estimate the path model. SmartPLS 3.0 software performing structural equation modelling (SEM) helped in determining the coefficient values.

Findings

The result of the study indicated the magnitude and directional relationship between SQ and trust and justified that they are the key determinants of building a positive attitude towards the institution, enhancing the intention to recommend it among peer groups.

Research limitations/implications

Academic institutions and their public relations departments must prioritize reducing SQ gaps and create strategies to build strong RT among all institution stakeholders to gain a competitive advantage. Socially, this study aims in assisting universities in establishing high-quality education.

Originality/value

The empirical estimation of the relationships between trust, attitude, quality and intention provides the reasons for incorporating and building positive WOM among students’ benefit institutions over the long run.

Details

International Journal of Educational Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0951-354X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 June 2024

Mamta Solanki and Satyawan Baroda

Many conceptual, empirical and exploratory studies on perceived organizational performance have been conducted in various domains. But, no attempt has been made to provide a…

Abstract

Purpose

Many conceptual, empirical and exploratory studies on perceived organizational performance have been conducted in various domains. But, no attempt has been made to provide a comprehensive scientific analysis of that area. Thus, by synthesizing knowledge structures, the aim of this study is to highlight the research field's trend.

Design/methodology/approach

A collection of 115 paper were included from Scopus and Web of science database covering the years 1994–2023. A bibliometric study was conducted on the perceived performance of the organization. The research used Biblioshiny, an online application part of the R-language Bibliometrix package (Aria and Cuccurullo, 2017). Significant journals, authors, countries, articles and topics were discovered using the automated workflow feature of the program. Both social network analysis and conceptual network analysis were done.

Findings

The outcomes display how the themes of perceived organizational performance have evolved as an interdisciplinary field. Initially, the field's analysis progressively expanded to include subjects like leadership and corporate social responsibility. The social structure of the domain is revealed by this research beside the conceptual structure. This study provides valuable new knowledge on areas that require more research.

Practical implications

This study offers significant insights regarding the perceived performance of organizations. It directs the reader toward the potential topics for research while highlighting the most discussed concerns in the field. By revealing the social and conceptual structure of the field, it gives upcoming academics knowledge about novel topics, contexts and collaborative opportunities.

Originality/value

In the past, several cross-national conceptual and empirical investigations in various areas have been carried out. This study's main contribution is the combining of the scattered literature on this topic and the identification of significant authors, sources and documents associated with perceived organizational performance.

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: 29 May 2024

Mohanad Rezeq, Tarik Aouam and Frederik Gailly

Authorities have set up numerous security checkpoints during times of armed conflict to control the flow of commercial and humanitarian trucks into and out of areas of conflict…

Abstract

Purpose

Authorities have set up numerous security checkpoints during times of armed conflict to control the flow of commercial and humanitarian trucks into and out of areas of conflict. These security checkpoints have become highly utilized because of the complex security procedures and increased truck traffic, which significantly slow the delivery of relief aid. This paper aims to improve the process at security checkpoints by redesigning the current process to reduce processing time and relieve congestion at checkpoint entrance gates.

Design/methodology/approach

A decision-support tool (clearing function distribution model [CFDM]) is used to minimize the effects of security checkpoint congestion on the entire humanitarian supply network using a hybrid simulation-optimization approach. By using a business process simulation, the current and reengineered processes are both simulated, and the simulation output was used to estimate the clearing function (capacity as a function of the workload). For both the AS-IS and TO-BE models, key performance indicators such as distribution costs, backordering and process cycle time were used to compare the results of the CFDM tool. For this, the Kerem Abu Salem security checkpoint south of Gaza was used as a case study.

Findings

The comparison results demonstrate that the CFDM tool performs better when the output of the TO-BE clearing function is used.

Originality/value

The efforts will contribute to improving the planning of any humanitarian network experiencing congestion at security checkpoints by minimizing the impact of congestion on the delivery lead time of relief aid to the final destination.

Details

Journal of Humanitarian Logistics and Supply Chain Management, vol. 14 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2042-6747

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 July 2024

Eddy Balemba Kanyurhi, Deogratias Bugandwa Mungu Akonkwa, Bonheur Murhula Lusheke, Patrick Murhula Cubaka, Paul Kadundu Karhamikire and Célestin Bucekuderhwa Bashige

The study has two objectives: (1) expand our knowledge of the relationship between unethical behaviour and both trust and satisfaction and (2) demonstrate that unethical behaviour…

Abstract

Purpose

The study has two objectives: (1) expand our knowledge of the relationship between unethical behaviour and both trust and satisfaction and (2) demonstrate that unethical behaviour research should be examined multi-dimensionally.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected by resorting to a mixed methods approach. First, individual interviews were performed with 31 bank consumers from six main commercial banks in Bukavu city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Interview notes were submitted for content analysis to identify items and components that underpin the unethical practices construct. Second, a quantitative survey was conducted with 410 consumers from the same six banks. An aggregated-disaggregated structural equations modelling approach was used to test the impact of unethical practices on relationship outcomes through two studies. Study 1 tested a model that links unethical behaviour as a one-dimensional construct to trust and satisfaction. Study 2 tested a model that directly connects the four specific unethical behaviour components to both trust and satisfaction.

Findings

Results from study 1 reveal that perceived unethical behaviour negatively influences consumer trust. Results also confirm that trust positively influences customer satisfaction. Results from study 2 confirm that unresponsive, disrespect and lying behaviours negatively influence both trust and satisfaction. Banks which are involving in those specific unethical behaviours can neither satisfy their consumers, nor maintain a sustainable and profitable relationship with them. Therefore, unethical behaviours harm the relationships outcomes in the banking sector.

Research limitations/implications

The perceived unethical behaviour scale derives from a single data set and its reliability and validity need to be improved. Relationships between constructs are tested in a more direct way and ignore moderating variables. Perceived unethical behaviour is connected to relationship outcome variables while its impact on firms’ metrics have been ignored.

Practical implications

Banks have to understand customers’ perception of unethical behaviours and find a way to overcome them. Banks should recruit, motivate and retain employees who demonstrate an ethical inclination in the service encounter and create structures and mechanisms in order to monitor and manage unethical practices.

Social implications

Banks employees' unethical behaviour and practices not only damage the trust and reputation of banks but also can lead to frustration on the part of customers and damage their relationship with the institution. Our paper is a warning of this danger and might improve the social interactions between organisations (in general) and customers.

Originality/value

Unethical behaviour is measured with a four-component scale in contrast to previous studies that have used bi-dimensional or one-dimensional scales. The study tests a disaggregated model that links four components of perceived unethical behaviour to relationship outcome variables. Perceived unethical behaviours are analysed from the customers’ perspective by resorting to mixed methods strategy.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 3 July 2020

Fernando F. Padró, Karen Trimmer, Heejin Chang and Jonathan H. Green

The purpose of this study is to investigate the extent to which TQM has influenced the legal system in Australia, an area seldom investigated in the quality or legal literature.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the extent to which TQM has influenced the legal system in Australia, an area seldom investigated in the quality or legal literature.

Design/methodology/approach

Documentary and policy analysis of legislation, rules and rulemaking documentation based on a partial application of historical-policy analysis (HPA). Textual analysis was based on Dean and Bowen's (1994) definition of TQM and Vinni's (2007) review of new public management and Swiss (1992) “reformed TQM” concepts.

Findings

Australia's Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency Act of 2011 and supporting legal documents such as Guidance Notes include language reflective of TQM principles, providing evidence that present-day administrative law schemes include TQM practices and tools to undergird procedures of regulatory expectations (sometimes in the form of standards), monitoring and general operations. Oftentimes, it is the supporting legal documentation where TQM practices are found and operationalized.

Research limitations/implications

This is a proof-of-concept research study to determine the feasibility to identify TQM concepts within the existing language of legal statutes and supporting regulatory documentation. As such this study worked out the preliminary research challenges in performing this type of analysis.

Practical implications

Understanding TQM's impact on legal systems expands the system's perspective of organizations that do not always factor in the influence government policy has on organizational behaviours and outlooks. More specifically, understanding TQM's influence sheds insight on regulatory requirements imposed on a sector and the normative aspects of regulatory compliance that impact the operations and strategic planning of organizations.

Social implications

The article provides an example of how legal administrative rulemaking influences organizational operational and strategic activities to remain viable in the organization's business or industrial sector.

Originality/value

There are few research papers or literature reviews pertaining to the subject of TQM concepts embedded in laws and regulations, most of which date from the 1980s through early 2000s.

Details

The TQM Journal, vol. 36 no. 7
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1754-2731

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 April 2024

Alex Iddy Nyagango, Alfred Said Sife and Isaac Eliakimu Kazungu

Despite the vast potential of mobile phone use, grape smallholder farmers’ satisfaction with mobile phone use has attracted insufficient attention among scholars in Tanzania. The…

Abstract

Purpose

Despite the vast potential of mobile phone use, grape smallholder farmers’ satisfaction with mobile phone use has attracted insufficient attention among scholars in Tanzania. The study examined factors influencing satisfaction with mobile phone use for accessing agricultural marketing information.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a cross-sectional research design and a mixed research method. Structured questionnaire and focus group discussions were used to collect primary data from 400 sampled grape smallholder farmers. Data were analysed inferentially involving two-way analysis of variance, ordinal logistic regression and thematic analysis.

Findings

The findings indicate a statistically significant disparity in grape smallholder farmers’ satisfaction across different types of agricultural marketing information. Grape smallholder farmers exhibited higher satisfaction levels concerning information on selling time compared to all other types of agricultural marketing information (price, buyers, quality and quantity). Factors influencing grape smallholder farmers’ satisfaction with mobile phone use were related to perceived usefulness, ease of use, experience and cost.

Originality/value

This study contributes to scientific knowledge by providing actionable insights for formulating unique strategies for smallholder farmers’ satisfaction with agricultural marketing information.

Details

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

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 5000