Search results

1 – 10 of over 7000
Open Access
Article
Publication date: 12 March 2024

Arthur Ribeiro Queiroz, João Prates Romero and Elton Eduardo Freitas

This article aims to evaluate the entry and exit of companies from local productive structures, with a specific focus on the sectoral complexity of these activities and the…

Abstract

Purpose

This article aims to evaluate the entry and exit of companies from local productive structures, with a specific focus on the sectoral complexity of these activities and the complexity of these portfolios. The study focuses on empirically demonstrating the thesis that related economic diversification exacerbates the development gap between more and less complex regions.

Design/methodology/approach

The article uses indicators formulated by the economic complexity approach. They allow a relevant descriptive analysis of the economic diversification process in Brazilian micro-regions and provide the foundation for the econometric tests conducted. Through three distinct estimation strategies (OLS, logit, probit), the influence of complexity and relatedness on the entry and exit events of firms from local portfolios is tested.

Findings

In all estimated models, the stronger relationship between an activity and a portfolio significantly increases its probability of entering the productive structure and, at the same time, acts as a significant factor in preventing its exit. Furthermore, the results reveal that the complexity of a sector reduces the probability of its specialization in less complex regions while increasing it in more complex regions. On the other hand, sectoral complexity significantly increases the probability of a sector leaving less complex local structures but has no significant effect in highly complex regions.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the data used, the indicators are calculated considering only formal job numbers. Additionally, the tests do not detect the influence of spatial issues. These limitations should be addressed by future research.

Practical implications

The article characterizes a prevailing process of uneven development among Brazilian regions and brings relevant implications, primarily for policymakers. Specifically, for less complex regions, policies should focus on creating opportunities to improve their diversification capabilities in complex sectors that are not too distant from their portfolios.

Originality/value

The article makes an original contribution by proposing an evaluation of regional diversification in Brazil with a focus on complexity, introducing a more detailed differentiation of regions based on their complexity levels and examining the impact of sectoral complexity on diversification patterns within each group.

Details

EconomiA, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1517-7580

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 15 August 2023

Sapna Malya

This paper aims to study the efficacy of the business model (BM) diagram in the companies’ integrated reports. Diagrams and graphics are an effective way of communicating the…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to study the efficacy of the business model (BM) diagram in the companies’ integrated reports. Diagrams and graphics are an effective way of communicating the complex processes of a business. However, these diagrams should have complete and appropriate content in a gist for easy understanding.

Design/methodology/approach

A study of BM diagrams published in the integrated reports of 65 Indian listed companies was carried out. The contents of these diagrams were compared to the requirement of BM as per the international <IR> framework.

Findings

While companies presented the BM diagram, there seemed to be a lack of clarity in the definitions of input, output and outcome capitals. Measurable metrics that give a clear understanding regarding the use and generation of resources were missing. The diagram was presented with some information because it had to be, but the purpose of the BM, which is the core of <IR>, was not conveyed. Also, the diagram did not display value creation or erosion effectively.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is one of the first studies on the BM diagram in the <IR> space. It emphasises that the diagram can capture the value-creation aspect of the <IR>. Thus, the BM diagram can be used as an effective and concise communication tool for the users of this report.

Details

Journal of Financial Reporting and Accounting, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1985-2517

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 24 March 2023

Nidhi Agarwala, Ritu Pareek and Tarak Nath Sahu

Amidst the growing awareness regarding the social accountability of corporates, the study has attempted to investigate how firm characteristics like size and performance influence…

Abstract

Purpose

Amidst the growing awareness regarding the social accountability of corporates, the study has attempted to investigate how firm characteristics like size and performance influence corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities in India.

Design/methodology/approach

236 Indian firms listed on the National Stock Exchange (Nifty 500 index) have been selected for the empirical analysis. The independent variable firm size has been defined through total assets, operation scale and resource access. Another important factor, firm's performance, is also considered as the independent variable. CSR, the dependent variable, has been measured using Bloomberg's Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) disclosure scores.

Findings

Findings of the dynamic panel data analysis have revealed an inversed U-shape relationship between companies' size and CSR, i.e. CSR participation is positively related with small-sized firms, but as the firms become larger in size, their relationship with CSR becomes negative. A negative relationship has also been found between firm performance and CSR, while the age of the firm exhibits a positive association with CSR participation.

Originality/value

Poor performance of the larger firms suggests that government regulatory bodies need to take strict steps to enhance supervision. Clear regulations are required to be framed and enforced upon large companies to promote consistent participation in CSR. The present study has endeavoured to offer a distinct viewpoint by considering firm size and CSR to be related in a non-linear manner and has brought forward relevant information from the perspective of an emerging economy like India.

Details

International Journal of Emerging Markets, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1746-8809

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 30 March 2023

Seyed Ashkan Zarghami and Ofer Zwikael

A variety of buffer allocation methods exist to distribute an aggregated time buffer among project activities. However, these methods do not pay simultaneous attention to two key…

Abstract

Purpose

A variety of buffer allocation methods exist to distribute an aggregated time buffer among project activities. However, these methods do not pay simultaneous attention to two key attributes of disruptive events that may occur during the construction phase: probability and impact. This paper fills this research gap by developing a buffer allocation method that takes into account the synergistic impact of these two attributes on project activities.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper develops a three-step method, calculating the probability that project activities are disrupted in the first step, followed by measuring the potential impact of disruption on project activities, and then proposing a risk-informed buffer allocation index by simultaneously integrating probability and impact outputs from the first two steps.

Findings

The proposed method provides more accurate results by sidestepping the shortcomings of conventional fuzzy-based and simulation-based methods that are purely based on expert judgments or historical precedence. Further, the paper provides decision-makers with a buffer allocation method that helps in developing cost-effective buffering and backup strategies by prioritizing project activities and their required resources.

Originality/value

This paper develops a risk-informed buffer allocation method that differs from those already available. The simultaneous pursuit of the probability and impact of disruptions distinguishes our method from conventional buffer allocation methods. Further, this paper intertwines the research domains of complexity science and construction management by performing centrality analysis and incorporating a key attribute of project complexity (i.e. the interconnectedness between project activities) into the process for buffer allocation.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 18 January 2024

Cai Yang, Zhi Yang, Shengmei Wu and Yu Zheng

Training activities organized by maker-spaces have become the most important channel through which makers acquire new external knowledge related to problem solving and thus…

Abstract

Purpose

Training activities organized by maker-spaces have become the most important channel through which makers acquire new external knowledge related to problem solving and thus contribute significantly to makers' innovation performance. Is it true that the more training activities in which makers participate, the better their innovation performance? Following the logic of process analyses, this paper empirically verifies the effects of the scope and frequency of makers' participation in training activities on their innovation performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a survey of 134 makers in China, this paper employed the procedure recommended by Preacher and Hayes (2008) to empirically test the total effects, direct effects and indirect effects of the scope and frequency of participation in training activities on makers' innovation performance via their ability to exploit new knowledge.

Findings

The research findings show that the scope (frequency) of participation in training activities has a positive (negative) effect on makers' innovation performance via the mediating effect of the makers' ability to exploit new knowledge. Time pressure acts as a negative moderator.

Originality/value

This paper sheds light on a considerably overlooked research area by investigating the effects of the scope and frequency of makers' participation in training activities on their innovation performance. The authors further identify and empirically test the theoretical mechanism by considering the mediating effect of makers' ability to exploit new knowledge. The research findings also provide a managerial training activity arrangement strategy for makerspaces and government.

Details

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

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 2 February 2023

Shan Shan Lu, Ruwen Tian and Dickson K.W. Chiu

The study aims to investigate the characteristics of the current situation of library programs and explore the possible reasons behind the low participation in Hong Kong. It…

Abstract

Purpose

The study aims to investigate the characteristics of the current situation of library programs and explore the possible reasons behind the low participation in Hong Kong. It focuses on the development of library programs in the era of digital technology, which can lead to discussion and reflections on the further development of library programs with innovative technology services.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applied a mixed-method research approach to investigate the current situation of library programming and the reasons for low participation in Hong Kong. The first part analyzes the characteristics of library programs offered by the Hong Kong Public Libraries (HKPL) through data collection from the HKPL website. The second part of this study investigated the reasons behind the low participation in library programs through quantitative research through an online survey.

Findings

The findings show that current library programs were dominated by reading activities and children's programs to a great extent, which both users and non-users are not very interested in. Further, most respondents expressed more interest in cultural and leisure events and hands-on activities (especially new technologies related) than traditional library programming. Many lapsed and non-users chose not to attend the library programs for boredom and uselessness. As a result, there is a need for HKPL to adjust its services to stay relevant to the needs and interests of local communities.

Originality/value

Scant studies explored the reasons behind non-users of public library programs, especially in Asia. This research contributes to the literature by analyzing and proposing the characteristics of the current situation of library programs and exploring the possible reasons behind the low participation in Hong Kong.

Details

Library Hi Tech, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0737-8831

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 8 September 2023

Önder Halis Bettemir and M. Talat Birgonul

Exact solution of time–cost trade-off problem (TCTP) by the state-of-the-art meta-heuristic algorithms can be obtained for small- and medium-scale problems, while satisfactory…

Abstract

Purpose

Exact solution of time–cost trade-off problem (TCTP) by the state-of-the-art meta-heuristic algorithms can be obtained for small- and medium-scale problems, while satisfactory results cannot be obtained for large construction projects. In this study, a hybrid heuristic meta-heuristic algorithm that adapts the search domain is developed to solve the large-scale discrete TCTP more efficiently.

Design/methodology/approach

Minimum cost slope–based heuristic network analysis algorithm (NAA), which eliminates the unfeasible search domain, is embedded into differential evolution meta-heuristic algorithm. Heuristic NAA narrows the search domain at the initial phase of the optimization. Moreover, activities with float durations higher than the predetermined threshold value are eliminated and then the meta-heuristic algorithm starts and searches the global optimum through the narrowed search space. However, narrowing the search space may increase the probability of obtaining a local optimum. Therefore, adaptive search domain approach is employed to make reintroduction of the eliminated activities to the design variable set possible, which reduces the possibility of converging into local minima.

Findings

The developed algorithm is compared with plain meta-heuristic algorithm with two separate analyses. In the first analysis, both algorithms have the same computational demand, and in the latter analysis, the meta-heuristic algorithm has fivefold computational demand. The tests on case study problems reveal that the developed algorithm presents lower total project costs according to the dependent t-test for paired samples with α = 0.0005.

Research limitations/implications

In this study, TCTP is solved without considering quality or restrictions on the resources.

Originality/value

The proposed method enables to adapt the number of parameters, that is, the search domain and provides the opportunity of obtaining significant improvements on the meta-heuristic algorithms for other engineering optimization problems, which is the theoretical contribution of this study. The proposed approach reduces the total construction cost of the large-scale projects, which can be the practical benefit of this study.

Details

Engineering, Construction and Architectural Management, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0969-9988

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 23 January 2024

David James Schmidtke, Mai Nguyen and Sharyn Rundle-Thiele

This paper aims to provide an overview of a social marketing intervention that aimed to increase physical activity (aligned to UN SDG 3) among adolescents in Bali, Indonesia.

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an overview of a social marketing intervention that aimed to increase physical activity (aligned to UN SDG 3) among adolescents in Bali, Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

Three sequential phases were followed to deliver the social marketing intervention. Phrase 1 (formative research) gained insights that guided a subsequent social marketing intervention. Phase 2 (pilot intervention) gathered preliminary results, to support the development of the final intervention. Phase 3 (intervention) evaluated the effectiveness of the two-month social marketing intervention.

Findings

The results from the intervention tested in this paper identified significant behaviour change in physical activity, demonstrating the effectiveness of the intervention. Furthermore, the paper identifies which intervention inputs contribute to behaviour change and which do not.

Research limitations/implications

This paper describes the outcomes from an eight-week pilot programme that aimed to increase rates of physical activity for Indonesian adolescents and provides early evidence of impact.

Practical implications

This study found that providing adolescents with the opportunity to play team sports increases physical activity behaviour.

Originality/value

There is a lot of ground that needs to be made in terms of designing programs capable of achieving impact in the Global South. The approach reported in this paper can serve as a best-practice model for researchers wanting to drive lasting behaviour change to overcome known inequities in the Global South.

Details

European Journal of Marketing, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0309-0566

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 March 2024

L. Jean Harrison-Walker and James A. Mead

Most research has investigated the fear of missing out (FOMO) in the context of online activities, often associated with negative personal outcomes such as fatigue and stress…

Abstract

Purpose

Most research has investigated the fear of missing out (FOMO) in the context of online activities, often associated with negative personal outcomes such as fatigue and stress. However, given the increased desire to be informed and included associated with FOMO, organizations that can effectively meet these needs may develop or strengthen social and structural bonds, thereby turning short-term customers with FOMO into lifelong patrons. This study aims to examine the relationship between FOMO and favorable organizational outcomes as mediated by several constructs associated with the desire for information and inclusion.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was conducted within the higher education sector of the service industry. FOMO served as the IV. The mediators represented context-specific aspects of campus involvement and inclusion. Organizational outcomes related to the long-term services relationship served as the DVs. The sample consisted of 435 students recruited from research pools at two southern universities in the USA. Exploratory factor analysis, OLS regression and the Hayes–Macro were used to examine the data.

Findings

The results demonstrate that FOMO is positively associated with students’ desires for information and inclusion (informal peer interaction, campus involvement, informal faculty interaction, campus information media use and a preference for in-person course scheduling), which are associated with the desirable university outcomes of satisfaction, connection and alumni donation/activity intentions.

Practical implications

If a university fosters unstructured time spent with faculty and peers, and promotes campus information media involvement, students with higher levels of FOMO are more likely to be satisfied, feel connected to the university and report intentions to donate time and money as alumni.

Originality/value

Prior research on FOMO is generally focused on internet and social media use; this study takes a broader perspective and identifies the effect of FOMO on a desire for information and inclusion within a novel context (a service environment). It also associates FOMO with favorable long-term service relationship outcomes that fortify social and structural bonds.

Details

Journal of Services Marketing, vol. ahead-of-print no. ahead-of-print
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0887-6045

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 29 January 2021

Orlando Troisi, Anna Visvizi and Mara Grimaldi

The purpose of this paper is to explore the emergence of innovation in smart service systems to conceptualize how actor’s relationships through technology-enabled interactions can…

2958

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the emergence of innovation in smart service systems to conceptualize how actor’s relationships through technology-enabled interactions can give birth to novel technologies, processes, strategies and value. The objectives of the study are: to detect the different enablers that activate innovation in smart service systems; and to explore how these can lead dynamically to the emergence of different innovation patterns.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical research adopts an approach based on constructivist grounded theory, performed through observation and semi-structured interviews to investigate the development of innovation in the Italian CTNA (Italian acronym of National Cluster for Aerospace Technology).

Findings

The identification and re-elaboration of the novelties that emerged from the analysis of the Cluster allow the elaboration of a diagram that classifies five different shades of innovation, introduced through some related theoretical propositions: technological; process; business model and data-driven; social and eco-sustainable; and practice-based.

Originality/value

The paper embraces a synthesis view that detects the enabling structural and systems dimensions for innovation (the “what”) and the way in which these can be combined to create new technologies, resources, values and social rules (the “how” dimension). The classification of five different kinds of innovation can contribute to enrich extant research on value co-creation and innovation and can shed light on how given technologies and relational strategies can produce varied innovation outcomes according to the diverse stakeholders engaged.

Details

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

Keywords

1 – 10 of over 7000