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Open Access
Article
Publication date: 6 July 2023

Hong-Lei Mu, Jiang Xu and Sijing Chen

The main purposes of this research are: first of all, to re-classify the types of corporate social responsibility (CSR) into primary stakeholder-oriented CSR and secondary…

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Abstract

Purpose

The main purposes of this research are: first of all, to re-classify the types of corporate social responsibility (CSR) into primary stakeholder-oriented CSR and secondary stakeholder-oriented CSR from the perspective of stakeholders and, second, to investigate empirically how and which types of CSR can better impact employees' job satisfaction and happiness management.

Design/methodology/approach

An online self-administered questionnaire was adopted to test the conceptual model. Questionnaires were sent to Chinese employees and restrict the data to those whose companies had experience implementing CSR. The study employed the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique for data analysis using SmartPLS 4.0 software.

Findings

For factors of happiness management, both primary stakeholder-oriented CSR and secondary stakeholder-oriented CSR had significant and positive effects on happiness management. In addition, both primary and secondary stakeholder-oriented CSR positively and significantly affected job satisfaction, with primary stakeholder-oriented CSR way larger than secondary stakeholder-oriented CSR. Job satisfaction, in turn, was positively and significantly associated with happiness management. The results showed that the control variables of gender and education background had significant effects on happiness management.

Practical implications

First, the results provide useful empirical evidence in support of the feasibility that firms could develop competitive and sustainable development strategies by paying more attention to CSR practices. In terms of the primary stakeholder-oriented CSR, managers are recommended to put employees' benefits as a priority and invest in the to offer a healthy and safe working environment or employee support programs. In terms of the secondary stakeholder-oriented CSR, managers are suggested to denote parts of earnings to charity and to people in need. Second, in order to create job satisfaction, firms should put a stronger emphasis on CSR practices. When considering job satisfaction, managers should treat their employees in a socially responsible way and fulfill their demands and rights and place this at the core of their CSR activities.

Originality/value

First, this study makes a contribution to the existing literature by classifying the four important CSR practices into two types from the perspective of stakeholder theory. By incorporating a series of CSR practices and the stakeholder theory, this study provides a comprehensive and reasonable CSR classification, which has not been considered by prior research. Second, this study adds to the literature by defining the construct of happiness management explicitly along with identifying the dimensions of happiness management. Third, to the best of the authors' knowledge, this is one of the first studies exploring the relationship between CSR and happiness management. Finally, this study is among the first to investigate the correlation between job satisfaction and happiness management.

Details

Management Decision, vol. 62 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0025-1747

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 August 2022

Jin Cai, Zhongfu Li, Yudan Dou, Yue Teng and Mengqi Yuan

Contractor selection is critical in green buildings (GBs) since the preferred contractor has the responsibility to achieve construction sustainability as well as relationship…

Abstract

Purpose

Contractor selection is critical in green buildings (GBs) since the preferred contractor has the responsibility to achieve construction sustainability as well as relationship sustainability. The developer satisfaction reflecting requirements can boost the cooperative relationship among stakeholders and act as an evaluation scale for the success of GB projects, which needs to be emphasized in the selection process but little involved in the existing research. This study explores improving GB contractor (GBC) selection by integrating developer satisfaction into selection procedures.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic framework of GBC selection including twenty-five criteria from literature review and experts survey is firstly constructed. Both tactical and strategic criteria are further classified into Kano categories (must-be, one-dimensional, and attractive categories) using the fuzzy Kano model (FKM), and weighted by the developer satisfaction index. The model proposed by this study combining FKM and TOPSIS divides the selection process into the filtration phase and selection phase by Kano categories. The proposed model is finally verified through performance comparison among multiple methods in a case.

Findings

Selection criteria are measured linearly and nonlinearly, showing criteria having nonlinear satisfaction change accounts for two-thirds of all. Criteria at tactical level tend to be must-be or one-dimensional categories for the developer, and most strategic criteria are classed as the attractive category, indicating that adding strategic criteria is necessary for long-term cooperation. The proposed model, using developer satisfaction to improve the selection process, ensures the selected GBC to be the most satisfactory with requirements of the developer and makes the performance of GBCs easily distinguishable.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge for promoting relationship sustainability by supplementing an integrated model with emphasis on developer satisfaction in GBC selection, so as to establish a good initial foundation due to the match between performances of GBCs and needs of developers. It not only helps maximize developer satisfaction in GBC selection by applying satisfaction to pre-construction management, but also instructs GBCs to prioritize performance improvements. The framework is also conducive for developers to classify selection criteria and select other participants (like green suppliers) from the satisfaction perspective in GBs.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 30 no. 10
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 March 2024

Tuan Son Nguyen, Sherif Mohamed and Sherif Mostafa

This study delves into the dynamics between Agile Response to Change (AR), Adaptive Scoping (AS), Stakeholder Engagement (SE) and Project Performance (PP), with a special focus on…

Abstract

Purpose

This study delves into the dynamics between Agile Response to Change (AR), Adaptive Scoping (AS), Stakeholder Engagement (SE) and Project Performance (PP), with a special focus on the moderating influence of Project Complexity (PC). The research, grounded in a thorough literature review, identifies critical gaps in these areas and examines the extent to which PC moderates the effects of AR, AS and SE on PP, offering new perspectives for managing complex projects.

Design/methodology/approach

The research develops a conceptual model based on a critical analysis of existing literature. A comprehensive questionnaire was designed, incorporating 28 items to measure AR, AS, SE, PP and PC. Data was collected from 136 project managers across various industries, and the responses were analysed using structural equation modelling (SEM) to explore the complex interplay between these variables.

Findings

The analysis revealed that internal AR (ARint) significantly enhances both quantitative (PPqt) and qualitative aspects of PP (PPql). AS and SE were found to positively influence PPql, but their impact on PPqt was not significant. Interestingly, PC was observed to negatively moderate the relationship between ARint and PPql, while its moderating effect on the relationship between ARint and PPql was not significant. The study also notes that PC does not significantly alter the positive correlations between AS, SE and PPql.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by elucidating the relationships between ARint, AS, SE and different dimensions of PP. It uniquely explores the role of PC as a moderating variable in these relationships, offering valuable insights for practitioners and researchers in the field of complex project management.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 22 January 2024

Rim Ghezal

This study aims to explore the determinants of engagement with and of stakeholders in corporate social responsibility (CSR) decision-making.

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to explore the determinants of engagement with and of stakeholders in corporate social responsibility (CSR) decision-making.

Design/methodology/approach

Using stakeholder theory, this study is mainly based on business ethics and CSR literature to develop a model depicting social and organizational contextual factors for engagement in the context of CSR decision-making.

Findings

This study identifies nine antecedents for engagement with and of stakeholders in CSR decision-making. Based on stakeholder perspective, the author explores how engagement constructs are influenced at both social and organizational levels by the determinants stakeholder pressure, stakeholder roles, stakeholder resources, stakeholder relationships, stakeholder management, two-way communication, procedural justice, interactional justice and stakeholder proactive strategy.

Practical implications

This study provides insights for companies regarding the determinants underlying engagement to reflect its importance in the context of CSR decision-making.

Social implications

A better understanding of the determinants of engagement is critical because engagement contributes to achieving “win-win” solutions that ensure increased stakeholder satisfaction.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this paper is one of the first to explore the determinants of engagement with and of stakeholders in CSR decision-making at both social and organizational levels by referring to stakeholder theory.

Details

European Business Review, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0955-534X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 January 2022

Guus Keusters, Hans Bakker and Erik-Jan Houwing

Civil engineering projects around the world have been underperforming for a long time. While the complexity of these projects will continue to increase, there is an urgent need to…

Abstract

Purpose

Civil engineering projects around the world have been underperforming for a long time. While the complexity of these projects will continue to increase, there is an urgent need to perform better. Although the integrated design process is critical for project success, the literature lacks studies describing the link to project performance. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the dominant variables that affect the integrated design process and consequently project performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A multiple case study was conducted to determine the dominant variables that affect the integrated design process and project performance. The research included four projects. Semi-structured interviews were the main source of data.

Findings

The cases indicated that the extent to which an integrated approach is achieved in the design process is essential for project performance. This applies to the integration of stakeholders’ interests as well as the integration of disciplines. Above all, it was concluded that the project team participants’ competencies for integration are a dominant factor for project performance, as the integrated design process has changed from a technical challenge to an integrative one.

Originality/value

This study provides insights into the dominant variable of the integrated design process that affects project performance, which is underexposed in the literature. The study results reveal the importance of competencies related to integration and adoption of the design problem context, which are not yet included in civil engineering design methods. In this respect, empathy is introduced as a new and critical competence for the civil engineering industry, which needs further research.

Details

Journal of Engineering, Design and Technology , vol. 22 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1726-0531

Keywords

Book part
Publication date: 17 November 2023

Simon Ofori Ametepey, Clinton Ohis Aigbavboa and Wellington Didibhuku Thwala

It is essential for developed nations to have adequate and functional infrastructure to sustain economic growth and well-being. Despite efforts to reduce the chances of…

Abstract

It is essential for developed nations to have adequate and functional infrastructure to sustain economic growth and well-being. Despite efforts to reduce the chances of infrastructure problems, several scholars have expressed concern about infrastructure standards deteriorating at an alarming rate and the need to ensure their sustainability. To achieve sustainable infrastructure development (SID), Sahely et al. (2005) proposed an uncomplicated strategy based on fundamental cooperation between infrastructure and ecological, economic, and social frameworks. Sustainable infrastructure is defined as the development and dependable management of a safe built environment based on efficient resource utilization and environmental standards. SID aims to mitigate or eliminate ecological problems and challenges while maximizing the potential social and economic benefits. United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN-ESCAP, 2007) defines SID as infrastructure compatible with continued financial and environmental sustainability. Sustainable road development infrastructure (SRID) is a procedure for constructing infrastructure that incorporates all the essential sustainable development (SD) parameters and is complicated by the interdependence of multiple factors. Stakeholders are essential for the successful execution of infrastructure projects, and a comprehensive evaluation of stakeholder interests and requirements is necessary to achieve SRID goals while meeting the needs of all parties involved. To achieve SRID, it is necessary to understand the relationship between road infrastructure development (RID) processes and SD standards and to implement criteria and indicators that accurately depict the long-term viability of a development process. Al Sanad (2015) identified several factors that may impede the implementation of SD in the infrastructure sector. Shafii et al. (2006) identified insufficient knowledge of SID, lack of SID training, a perception of SID as expensive, acquisition concerns, administrative issues, expert capacities, and motivational factors for manufacturing local materials as potential obstacles. Serpell (2013) identified four categories of SID challenges, including knowledge, economic and financial, organizational, and go. Darko and Chan (2016) identified the most prevalent barriers as a lack of data, training, research, information, and expertise, high cost, government interest, premium and demand, and the absence of SID standards of practice. Azis et al. (2012) identified improved project efficiency, waste reduction in the construction industry, and energy efficiency as advantages of SID. Ametepey and Aigbavboa (2014) identified energy savings, environmental protection, contribution to a higher standard of living and a healthy work environment, resource preservation for future generations, reduction in lifecycle costs, promotion of sustainable economic development, and stakeholder satisfaction as the top benefits of sustainable construction (SC). Du Plessis (2007) identified technological factors, Al Sanad (2015) identified educational programmes, Serpell et al. (2013) identified transformation, economic, and stakeholder engagement as drivers of SC, and Hankinson and Breytenbach (2012) identified enhanced SC awareness. This chapter reviewed the literature on international infrastructure and sustainability development, discussing factors, and benefits promoting SID.

Details

Sustainable Road Infrastructure Project Implementation in Developing Countries: An Integrated Model
Type: Book
ISBN: 978-1-83753-811-9

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 29 November 2023

Harish Kumar Singla and Sitara Sunil Chammanam

The purpose of this study is to develop a financial performance measurement model for real estate business.

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop a financial performance measurement model for real estate business.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses balanced scorecard (BSC) proposed by Kaplan and Norton (1996) as a theoretical support. The study, being exploratory in nature, uses survey method to collect data on several dimensions of BSC as well as on other performance measures used by real estate businesses in India. The survey data collected is analyzed using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to explore the model constructs. This is followed by building an integrated conceptual model for measuring the financial performance of a real estate business. The model is tested using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The study finds that the financial performance of the real estate business revolves around customer satisfaction, employee satisfaction and external networks. The right alignment of these components lead to superior financial performance. It also provides a competitive advantage to the real estate business. These three components (customer satisfaction, employee satisfaction and external networks) have direct and indirect influences on the financial performance of real estate business.

Research limitations/implications

A small sample size (78 respondents), as well as the respondent’s geographical concentration in India, are the limitations of the study. Hence, generalization of findings may be difficult until the findings are validated across the globe.

Practical implications

The conceptual performance measurement model suggested in this research provides an effective tool to plan and strategize to achieve superior financial performance, particularly for stakeholders in the real estate business.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge and belief, this is the first attempt to develop a comprehensive financial performance measurement model for real estate business and test it using EFA and PLS-SEM.

Details

Journal of Financial Management of Property and Construction , vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1366-4387

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 5 December 2023

Francesco Di Maddaloni and Roya Derakhshan

The study emphasizes the importance of human perception in engaging stakeholders and sheds light on the way the often “disregarded” actors (i.e. local communities) make sense of…

Abstract

Purpose

The study emphasizes the importance of human perception in engaging stakeholders and sheds light on the way the often “disregarded” actors (i.e. local communities) make sense of an organization's behavior at the corporate, project and individual level.

Design/methodology/approach

Departing from the normative stance of stakeholder theory, this conceptual paper aims to unfold the benefits of a more holistic and inclusive organizational approach to stakeholders. The conceptual framework is elucidated through the lens of attribution theory, which points to communication as the source of stakeholders' attributional processes and thus their perception of fairness.

Findings

Focusing the authors’ attention on construction and infrastructure projects, this research suggests that early transparent and informative communication with local community stakeholders motivates them to perceive fairness, from both the process of decision-making (distributive) and the outcome of decisions (procedural), as well as the way in which they are treated (interactional). Such communications lead to less biased attributions as they reduce the influence of personal beliefs in achieving a conscious and non-biased attribution mode.

Originality/value

In this paper, the authors adopt attribution theory as their lens with which to interpret the process whereby individuals attempt to make sense of an organization's behavior. Focusing on secondary stakeholder engagement such as local community, the authors’ conceptualization shapes both a framework highlighting communication as the mediator for shaping human perceptions, and a process model to guide project organizations and practitioners to embrace an inclusive approach toward the often-disregarded stakeholders, which is aimed at enhancing their perception of fairness at the corporate, project and individual levels. The authors highlight the need for organization to provide clear and transparent communication to a broader range of stakeholders, such as those that have had little to say in the decision-making process (the often-disregarded voices). By seeking collaboration rather than manipulation, a project organization might promote stakeholders' non-biased perception of fairness, in terms of both the process and outcome of the project.

Details

International Journal of Managing Projects in Business, vol. 17 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1753-8378

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 November 2022

Jiaqi Liu and Jicai Liu

This paper aims to determine the demand category and level of government and investors in public–private partnership (PPP) projects. It emphasizes the importance of meeting the…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to determine the demand category and level of government and investors in public–private partnership (PPP) projects. It emphasizes the importance of meeting the demands of stakeholders and controlling the unreasonable demands. This study aims to improve the demand management of stakeholders in the PPP project and lay a foundation for the research on behavior based on the motivation theory.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper opted for a questionnaire survey to collect data based on indicators identified through literature. The participants come from the government and private sector (investors, contractors, operators, etc.) in China PPP Lecture Hall. The reliability, validity and variance analyses are used to test the reliability of data. Factor analysis and entropy method are used to determine demand categories and weights.

Findings

The government’s 14 demands are divided into four groups: satisfy public activities, self-interest, responsibility and relief financial pressure; 6 investor's demands are divided into development ability and satisfy social activities. The self-interest of government is higher than that of the publicity in PPP projects; investor's social reputation is most important, it is a foundation for obtaining external resources and achieving enterprise development.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the chosen research approach, the demand indexes cannot be exhausted. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to enrich relevant contents further.

Practical implications

This paper includes implications for a targeted demand control mechanism and for managing the unreasonable demand.

Originality/value

This paper comprehensively identifies the demand hierarchy of the government and investors, and provides the theoretical basis for the target management of stakeholders.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 31 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 28 June 2022

Sy Tien Do, Viet Thanh Nguyen and Nghia Hoai Nguyen

This study aims to examine the mutual influence of causes of variation orders (VOs), claims/disputes (CDs) on project performance (PP) and stakeholder performance (SP).

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to examine the mutual influence of causes of variation orders (VOs), claims/disputes (CDs) on project performance (PP) and stakeholder performance (SP).

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, this study identifies the VOs, the CDs, criteria for measuring the PP and criteria for measuring the SP. Then, a survey questionnaire is created to collect data from stakeholders in construction projects. Using the factor analysis method, this study discovers the constructs of the VOs, CDs, PP and SP. The relationships among the constructs are then uncovered using a structural equation model.

Findings

The research findings confirm that the VOs and CDs have a direct effect on the PP, as well as the PP’s effect on SP, whereas the VOs and CDs have no effect on the SP. It is strongly recommended that critical factors such as poor management, construction method change, design/scope problems, uncontrollable objective problems, impediment problems, lack of commitment among parties and lack of experience and competence of parties should be given special attention to improve the SP.

Originality/value

The results of the study fill the gap in knowledge by examining the mutual influence of the VOs, the CDs, the PP and the SP. Discovering the mutual influence will assist managers in improving the PP and the SP.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. 30 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 3000