Administrative Sciences

19 pages, 567 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Followership in Business Transformation: Hyundai Motor Group Case

by Kyounghee Sunwoo, Jinhee Choi and Victor Blazquez

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 309; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14120309 - 21 Nov 2024

This study explored the employees’ perception of followership and its evolution in business transformation, given the case of the Hyundai Motor Group (HMG). Using a case study approach for explorative research, we conducted informal conversations and in-depth interviews with twenty participants to solicit [...] Read more.

This study explored the employees’ perception of followership and its evolution in business transformation, given the case of the Hyundai Motor Group (HMG). Using a case study approach for explorative research, we conducted informal conversations and in-depth interviews with twenty participants to solicit employees’ and stakeholders’ perceptions of followership and its cultural formation through interpersonal relationships. Drawing on Kelley’s followership typology, we found three characteristics in participants’ followership perceptions: Ill-sa-bul-lan (extraordinarily well-organized), speed, and devotion. To explore the cultural formation of followership between leaders and followers, which is under-explored in Kelley’s theory, we adopted alternative theories (i.e., responsible leadership and implicit followership) to analyze the interpersonal relationship during the business transformation. Consequently, we found that the HMG followership, shaped by the relationships between leaders and followers within the Korean cultural context, evolved to facilitate successful business transformation. Initiated by top management, new and diverse elements from outside spurred the drive for business transformation and instigated changes in organizational culture, including perceptions of followership. This evolution of followership, in turn, reinforced the business transformation, creating a virtuous cycle. This study offers valuable insights into the dynamics of followership and its impact on organizational performance, providing a foundation for further empirical research in this underexplored area of followership. Full article

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11 pages, 498 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Customer Reviews of Accommodation as an Important Factor in Choosing and Booking Accommodation: Analysis of Conditions in V4 Countries

by Stela Kolesárová, Anna Šenková, Erika Kormaníková and Kristína Šambronská

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(12), 308; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14120308 - 21 Nov 2024

Abstract

Customer reviews represent an important aspect when choosing accommodation from the customer’s point of view. The customer assumes that if the facility has a higher number of positive reviews from other customers, his experience with the services of the selected accommodation will be [...] Read more.

Customer reviews represent an important aspect when choosing accommodation from the customer’s point of view. The customer assumes that if the facility has a higher number of positive reviews from other customers, his experience with the services of the selected accommodation will be similar. This paper focuses on the importance of customer reviews of accommodation facilities in the context of V4 countries (Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia). The aim of the paper was to analytically evaluate customer reviews of accommodation facilities in V4 countries as an important factor in the selection and reservation of accommodation services, such as gastronomic services, accommodation and additional services. We focused primarily on examining the differences in customer evaluations of accommodation facilities in these V4 countries. The findings highlight the importance of positive and negative reviews in influencing guest satisfaction and loyalty. At the end of the paper, we offer recommendations for accommodation facilities that are focused on positive as well as negative reviews. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tourism and Hospitality Marketing: Trends and Best Practices)

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30 pages, 4323 KiB

Open AccessReview

Transforming Strategy and Value Creation Through Digitalization?

by Sónia Gouveia, Daniel H. de la Iglesia, José Luís Abrantes and Alfonso J. López Rivero

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 307; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110307 - 20 Nov 2024

Abstract

Digital transformation (DT) directly influences organizational competitiveness, reshaping value creation and necessitating adaptation across industries. This study investigates how DT redefines strategic imperatives and the mechanisms of value creation within organizations, synthesizing findings from five thematic clusters: “Strategic Management in Digital Transformation of [...] Read more.

Digital transformation (DT) directly influences organizational competitiveness, reshaping value creation and necessitating adaptation across industries. This study investigates how DT redefines strategic imperatives and the mechanisms of value creation within organizations, synthesizing findings from five thematic clusters: “Strategic Management in Digital Transformation of Organizations”, “Emerging Trends in Digital Entrepreneurship and Sustainability”, “Digital Capabilities and Business Model Innovation”, “Digitalization and Transformation of SMEs”, and “Value Creation through Innovation and Digital Transformation”. The analysis uncovers crucial insights, including the shift towards business-to-business (B2B) value-oriented sales, the role of big data analytics in collaborative innovation, and the integration of AI-driven business models across retail, logistics, and healthcare. Strategic alignment between technological advances and organizational goals emerges as essential, especially for SMEs facing resources, regulatory compliance, and skills development challenges. Despite these insights, significant gaps remain. Future research should delve into the underexplored area of cross-industry best practices, particularly how SMEs can leverage digital tools to enhance resilience and adaptability in market volatility. Further investigation into the long-term impacts of digital entrepreneurship on sustainability is recommended, including metrics for measuring social and environmental value creation. Additionally, digital leadership roles, such as Chief Digital Officers, warrant more in-depth examinations to identify how these leaders can navigate the complexities of DT and maximize value co-creation. This systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis aim to consolidate current knowledge, address critical gaps, and lay the groundwork for future studies that support resilient and sustainable growth in an increasingly digital economy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategic Innovation and Emerging Markets: Trends, Issues and Future Directions)

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23 pages, 587 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Effects of Entrepreneurial and Digital Orientations on the Competitive Advantage of Saudi Firms: Is Strategic Agility the Missing Link?

by Wassim J. Aloulou, Amin K. Alsadi, Faouzi M. Ayadi and Thamir H. Alaskar

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 306; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110306 - 19 Nov 2024

Abstract

This study explores the intricate relationships between entrepreneurial orientation (EO), digital orientation (DO), strategic agility (SA), and competitive advantage (CA) in Saudi firms. We investigate whether strategic agility serves as the missing link in these relationships. We examine direct and indirect effects among [...] Read more.

This study explores the intricate relationships between entrepreneurial orientation (EO), digital orientation (DO), strategic agility (SA), and competitive advantage (CA) in Saudi firms. We investigate whether strategic agility serves as the missing link in these relationships. We examine direct and indirect effects among these constructs using structural equation modeling on data collected from 307 Saudi firms. The results confirm the direct positive links between EO and SA with CA. However, the findings also reveal a surprising result—there is no direct link between DO and CA. At the same time, both DO and EO exerted significant positive influences on SA. This study emphasizes the mediating role of SA. We find that SA partially mediates the relationship between EO and CA, underlining the importance of EO while pointing out the additional value given to this relationship by SA. Additionally, SA fully mediates the relationship between DO and CA, suggesting that firms must develop SA to translate their digital capabilities into CA. These results contribute to the strategic management literature by explaining the interplay between strategic orientations, agility, and competitive advantage in the Saudi context. They also provide practical implications for managers seeking to enhance the competitiveness of their firms during this digital age by showing that investing in SA in conjunction with entrepreneurial and digital resources is of paramount importance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Future of Entrepreneurship: Emerging Technologies and Opportunities)

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20 pages, 371 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Work Engagement and Performance of Romanian School Teachers During the COVID-19 Pandemic: The Impact of Sociodemographic and Contextual Factors

by Ecaterina Coman, Ionela Stoicov, Laurențiu Gabriel Țîru, Gabriel Brătucu, Eliza Ciobanu, Florin Nechita, Lorant Bucs and Claudiu Coman

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 305; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110305 - 18 Nov 2024

Abstract

The pandemic has led to significant changes in teaching environments, which may have affected teacher engagement and performance. The aim of the paper is to investigate the levels of work engagement (WE) and work performance (WP) during the pandemic among teachers in primary [...] Read more.

The pandemic has led to significant changes in teaching environments, which may have affected teacher engagement and performance. The aim of the paper is to investigate the levels of work engagement (WE) and work performance (WP) during the pandemic among teachers in primary and lower secondary schools in Romania and to identify if the dimensions of these two concepts differ according to gender, age, residence, status, teaching degree, and course profile, filling a gap in the specialized literature regarding these variables in Romanian education. We conducted a survey between February and March 2022 on a sample of 1051 teachers using the Utrecht Work Engagement Scale (UWES) and the Individual Work Performance Questionnaire (IWPQ 0.3). Teachers reported a high level of engagement and work performance, higher levels of WE being identified among female teachers and those teaching in rural areas. Younger teachers showed the lowest work engagement, despite their familiarity with the digital tools used during the COVID-19 pandemic. Interestingly, while gender and employment status did not have a significant impact on job performance, contextual performance was higher among tenured teaching staff and women. In addition, the profile of subjects taught significantly affected engagement and performance. The results of this research can contribute to a more dynamic and supportive educational system, ultimately leading to improved outcomes for teachers and students. Full article

11 pages, 238 KiB

Open AccessArticle

How Much Does the CEO’s Age Impact Corporate Performance Under a Changing Environment?

by Joohee Han and Sung Jun Jo

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 304; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110304 - 18 Nov 2024

Abstract

The recent technological innovations and the consequences of the pandemic are rapidly changing the management paradigm. Organizations that seek to survive and remain competitive must adapt to these changes. One strategy to cope with these environmental changes is to hire a younger CEO. [...] Read more.

The recent technological innovations and the consequences of the pandemic are rapidly changing the management paradigm. Organizations that seek to survive and remain competitive must adapt to these changes. One strategy to cope with these environmental changes is to hire a younger CEO. This study aims to empirically analyze how the age of the CEO affects the performance of the firm based on upper echelons theory. Using a sample of 706 CEOs of companies listed on the South Korean public stock market (KOSPI) as of 2023, we found that CEO age is positively related to financial performance. We also found that CEO age is negatively related to risk-taking behavior and innovation. These findings have both practical and theoretical implications, suggesting that the recent shift to the relationship between a long-term perspective and innovation have positive implications. Young CEOs often seek these perspectives and are more willing to be aggressive in investment and risk-taking behaviors in the interests offor an innovative business. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Strategic Management)

14 pages, 295 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of E-HRM Tools on Employee Engagement

by Katarína Stachová, Zdenko Stacho, Peter Šamalík and Filip Sekan

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 303; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110303 - 15 Nov 2024

Abstract

The examination of the impact of digital innovations on employee motivation and engagement is crucial given the rapid technological advancements. This study focused on digital HRM practices, such as digital interaction platforms. The results indicated that respondents generally had positive to neutral views [...] Read more.

The examination of the impact of digital innovations on employee motivation and engagement is crucial given the rapid technological advancements. This study focused on digital HRM practices, such as digital interaction platforms. The results indicated that respondents generally had positive to neutral views on these practices, with big data analytics receiving the highest rating for its potential to enhance organizational performance and employee engagement. The study revealed a moderately strong positive correlation between the use of digital platforms and big data analytics, suggesting a holistic approach to digital transformation in HRM. However, a weak correlation between digital innovations and engagement suggests that the direct impact of digital tools on employee engagement is limited by other factors. Larger companies tend to implement advanced digital HRM practices more due to their greater resources. The study’s limitations include a restricted sample from the Central and Eastern European region and reliance on self-assessed data. Future studies should include more diverse regions and long-term studies, combining quantitative data with qualitative insights. Digital innovations in HRM offer promises for process improvement and data-driven decision-making, but their impact on employee engagement is complex and requires an integrated approach of technological and managerial practices. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Challenges and Directions in the Development of Human Resource Management)

24 pages, 750 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Looking Through the Entrepreneurial Kaleidoscope—Examining Stereotypes Against Commercial, Social, Environmental, and Community Entrepreneurs in Kenya and Germany

by Philipp Kruse and Pauline Wangari Kamau

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 302; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110302 - 15 Nov 2024

Abstract

For the greater part of entrepreneurial history, entrepreneurship’s primary target was commercial, i.e., money generation for the entrepreneur and his or her stakeholders. However, starting in the 1980s, hybrid forms of entrepreneurship fusing the creation of non-financial value with entrepreneurial means have gained [...] Read more.

For the greater part of entrepreneurial history, entrepreneurship’s primary target was commercial, i.e., money generation for the entrepreneur and his or her stakeholders. However, starting in the 1980s, hybrid forms of entrepreneurship fusing the creation of non-financial value with entrepreneurial means have gained traction. Currently, several conceptually different forms, e.g., social, environmental, and community entrepreneurship, exist. Research yields various differences comparing commercial and hybrid entrepreneurship, particularly in the stereotypical perceptions of different entrepreneurs. Notwithstanding notable insights, entrepreneurial stereotype research suffers from three major shortcomings. First, stereotype differences are primarily examined by comparing commercial to hybrid entrepreneurs, neglecting stereotype differences inside hybrid entrepreneurship. Second, the scope of stereotypes investigated (e.g., warmth and competence) remains vague and lacks entrepreneurial specificity. Third, the robustness of entrepreneurial stereotypes under different institutional circumstances, e.g., in economy and culture, is unclear. The current study addresses these three shortcomings. Analyzing two samples from Kenya and Germany (N_total = 286) with repeated-measures analyses of co-variance, we find notable stereotype differences (i) inside hybrid entrepreneurs; (ii) regarding warmth, competence, and entrepreneurship-specific success indicators; and (iii) under different institutional circumstances. Despite acknowledgeable limitations, our work extends previous stereotype research by highlighting the necessity for a more fine-grained, specific, and inter-country perspective on entrepreneurial stereotypes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Future of Entrepreneurship: Emerging Technologies and Opportunities)

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20 pages, 2021 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Framework for Agile Transformation: Guiding Organizations Through Cultural, Structural, and Competency Shifts in Project Management

by Valentina Ndou, Alessandro Ingrosso and Anna Di Girolamo

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 301; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110301 - 14 Nov 2024

Abstract

This paper aims to provide a framework for guiding organizations toward Agile practices for project management. Through a case study analysis conducted in an information technology company, the paper aims to explore the interplay between current organization structure and project management approaches, the [...] Read more.

This paper aims to provide a framework for guiding organizations toward Agile practices for project management. Through a case study analysis conducted in an information technology company, the paper aims to explore the interplay between current organization structure and project management approaches, the set of competencies, and the cultural change required for a transition toward Agile transformation. The paper provides a framework comprising four main blocks necessary for guiding organizations toward Agile practices for successful project management. The framework proposed demonstrates that for organizations to be nimble and to improve teamwork performance, it is necessary to undertake a set of changes in culture, competencies, structure, and approaches. The findings highlight the importance of a structured approach to Agile transformation, with particular emphasis on top management support and continuous learning. By formalizing Agile initiatives through structured approaches and continuous engagement, organizations can foster a shared sense of purpose among team members, ensuring sustained commitment and facilitating smoother transitions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations, Projects, Challenges and Changes in A Digital World)

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12 pages, 265 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Crowdsourcing of Inventive Activities, AI, and the NIH Syndrome

by Thierry Burger-Helmchen

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 300; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110300 - 13 Nov 2024

Abstract

This study examines how crowdsourcing can support innovation in companies. It focuses on the Not Invented Here (NIH) syndrome—a reluctance to adopt external ideas—that varies depending on which organizational boundaries are considered, such as power, competence, and culture. By analyzing how these boundaries [...] Read more.

This study examines how crowdsourcing can support innovation in companies. It focuses on the Not Invented Here (NIH) syndrome—a reluctance to adopt external ideas—that varies depending on which organizational boundaries are considered, such as power, competence, and culture. By analyzing how these boundaries influence resistance to crowdsourced solutions, this study finds that although crowdsourcing brings valuable diversity and insights, many organizations struggle to leverage these effectively. Moreover, with the rise of generative AI, many organizations are increasingly focused on internal data and AI-driven innovation, which further intensifies NIH syndrome by deprioritizing external insights. We discuss why and how companies that have managed NIH syndrome effectively may be better positioned to overcome resistance to AI. Full article

27 pages, 1464 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Business Transformation in a Distinctive Institutional Setting: A Study of Regional Development Banks in Indonesia

by Audy Thuda, Mohammad Hamsal, Dezie Leonarda Warganegara and Pantri Heriyati

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 299; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110299 - 12 Nov 2024

Abstract

Limited research exists on business transformation strategy within the Indonesian banking sector, particularly regarding regional development banks, which play a crucial role in regional economic advancement. This study investigates the drivers of successful business transformation in Indonesian RDBs and their impact on organizational [...] Read more.

Limited research exists on business transformation strategy within the Indonesian banking sector, particularly regarding regional development banks, which play a crucial role in regional economic advancement. This study investigates the drivers of successful business transformation in Indonesian RDBs and their impact on organizational performance, examining the moderating role of regional government intervention. Employing structural equation modeling, the study analyzed data from 255 branch managers across 27 RDBs. Results reveal that talent development, transformational leadership, and digital adoption significantly drive successful business transformation, which in turn enhances organizational performance. Contrary to expectations, regional government intervention did not demonstrate a moderating effect. This study provides valuable insights for RDB managers and policymakers, emphasizing the imporace of talent development, leadership, and digital adoption as key pillars of successful transformation and highlighting the need for a nuanced understanding of institutional influences within this sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Strategic Management)

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20 pages, 1662 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Blockchain-Enabled Supply Chain Finance: A Bibliometric Review and Research Agenda

by Asaduddin Abdullah, Arif Satria, Heti Mulyati, Yandra Arkeman and Dikky Indrawan

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 298; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110298 - 11 Nov 2024

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed weaknesses in traditional supply chain finance systems, highlighting the need for digital change. Blockchain technology, with its ability to create secure and transparent records of transactions, offers a potential solution. This study uses bibliometric analysis and a literature [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic has revealed weaknesses in traditional supply chain finance systems, highlighting the need for digital change. Blockchain technology, with its ability to create secure and transparent records of transactions, offers a potential solution. This study uses bibliometric analysis and a literature review to examine research on blockchain-enabled supply chain finance, drawing on a database of 446 articles from ScienceDirect and Scopus. The findings show a growing interest in how blockchain can improve transparency, efficiency, and security in supply chain finance, addressing challenges like information asymmetry. This study suggests future research should focus on real-world applications of blockchain, how it can be used with other technologies, regulations and governance, and the social and environmental impacts of blockchain-based supply chain finance. This research also highlights the different priorities of the Global North and South in blockchain-enabled supply chain finance. The North focuses on efficiency and traceability, while the South emphasizes adding value and transparency. A lack of research on fair pricing, especially in the Global South, points to a critical gap that future research needs to address to ensure fairness in global trade. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Supply Chain in the New Business Environment)

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24 pages, 1228 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Resilience for Sustainability: The Synergistic Role of Green Human Resources Management, Circular Economy, and Green Organizational Culture in the Hotel Industry

by Ibrahim A. Elshaer, Alaa M. S. Azazz, Chokri Kooli, Khaled M. A. Alqasa, Jehad Afaneh, Eslam Ahmed Fathy, Amr Mohamed Fouad and Sameh Fayyad

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 297; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110297 - 9 Nov 2024

Abstract

This research explores the extent to which Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) practices in the Egyptian hotel sector contribute to the adoption of Circular Economy (CE) practices and, eventually, organizational resilience. Using a sample of 402 employees from green-certified Egyptian hotels, the current [...] Read more.

This research explores the extent to which Green Human Resource Management (GHRM) practices in the Egyptian hotel sector contribute to the adoption of Circular Economy (CE) practices and, eventually, organizational resilience. Using a sample of 402 employees from green-certified Egyptian hotels, the current study applied Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) on the data collected. The results show the positive effect of GHRM on the adoption of a circular economy that significantly enhances both internal and external organizational resilience. In addition, high Green Organizational Culture (GOC) strengthens the positive relationship of GHRM with the adoption of a circular economy. From this work, some empirical evidence is provided to show that circular economy practices can play a partial mediating role between GHRM and organizational resilience. These findings also present valuable insights for hotel managers and policymakers on how to achieve sustainability and resilience by means of integrated GHRM and circular economy strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tourism and Hospitality Marketing: Trends and Best Practices)

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17 pages, 1188 KiB

Open AccessArticle

SMEs in a Digital Era: The Role of Management

by Irena Mladenova

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 296; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110296 - 9 Nov 2024

Abstract

This article aims to explore the role of management in translating the external factors’ and internal barriers’ impacts on the level of adoption of digital technologies as a lever for change in business operations and processes in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). SMEs [...] Read more.

This article aims to explore the role of management in translating the external factors’ and internal barriers’ impacts on the level of adoption of digital technologies as a lever for change in business operations and processes in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). SMEs face a distinct set of challenges when adopting digital technologies, often lacking resources and knowledge. On the other hand, they have certain characteristics, such as simpler organisational structures and processes, that make them more flexible than larger firms in leveraging technologies into new business models. Data for this study are obtained from 989 SMEs in Bulgaria in the manufacturing and services sectors. A PLS–SEM analysis confirms eight hypotheses raised on the relationships between environmental factors and government support and internal factors (management support, organisational flexibility, and risk-tolerant culture) that impact digital business intensity. Environmental factors’ impact is stronger than government support, while internal barriers are found to have no statistically significant relationship. The research findings highlight the important role of management support in guiding digital transformation through supporting organisational flexibility and promoting a risk-tolerant culture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalyzing Growth: Nurturing Innovation and Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Business Development)

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12 pages, 269 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Six Sigma and DEA Framework for Quality Assessment in Banking Services

by Enrique Delahoz-Domínguez, Adel Mendoza-Mendoza and Rohemi Zuluaga-Ortiz

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 295; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110295 - 8 Nov 2024

Abstract

This study proposes a methodology that combines Six Sigma and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) to measure the quality of banking services. The proposed framework emphasizes seven essential quality dimensions: prompt response, efficient channels, fraudulence, processes, dependable service, credibility, customer satisfaction, and risk management. [...] Read more.

This study proposes a methodology that combines Six Sigma and Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) to measure the quality of banking services. The proposed framework emphasizes seven essential quality dimensions: prompt response, efficient channels, fraudulence, processes, dependable service, credibility, customer satisfaction, and risk management. Integrating both techniques enables a holistic approach to quality evaluation and provides valuable information for the banking industry’s continual improvement. To validate the properties of the methodology, we developed a case study involving 25 Colombian banks. Using Six Sigma metrics, DEA models, and slacks analysis, the results provide a comprehensive study of the quality performance, identifying each bank’s relative strengths and weaknesses in several quality dimensions. The data indicate that some banks perform better on quality characteristics such as customer happiness, dependable service, and procedures. However, this study also reveals a promising finding: banks still have the potential for development, particularly in their response time, channel efficiency, fraud, and credibility, offering hope for the future of banking services. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations and Change in Service Industry Management)

24 pages, 4791 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Restrictions on Public Funding and Management of R&D Projects Arising from Legislation: The Case of the Spanish Context

by Pablo Coca, Amabel García-Domínguez and Juan Claver

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 294; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110294 - 7 Nov 2024

Abstract

This article examines the challenges posed by national legislative frameworks in the European Union Member States regarding the management of publicly funded research and development (R&D) projects. Taking the case of Spain and its General Subsidies Act as an example, this study analyzes [...] Read more.

This article examines the challenges posed by national legislative frameworks in the European Union Member States regarding the management of publicly funded research and development (R&D) projects. Taking the case of Spain and its General Subsidies Act as an example, this study analyzes 55 R&D funding calls published by the Spanish Central Administration in 2021 and 2022. This research identifies key challenges associated with change management in these projects. This research performed a detailed review of relevant legislation and its application to R&D projects, alongside an analysis of regulatory bases making use of a flexibility index (FI) to assess the adaptability of grant conditions. Also, quantitative methodologies like Pearson’s correlation coefficient and principal component analysis were employed. The findings reveal that flexibility in project management, particularly concerning changes in scope, budget, and timeframes, is limited due to the rigidity of the legal framework. This lack of flexibility means a significant challenge for effective project execution, which inherently requires adaptability to manage uncertainty. This research suggests that future reforms should prioritize greater legal flexibility to improve the efficiency and success of publicly funded R&D initiatives. These findings contribute to the broader understanding of how regulatory constraints impact innovation management. Full article

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24 pages, 1126 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Purchase Determinants in a Peripheral Region of Europe: How Can Green Marketing Influence Consumers’ Decisions? The Mediating Role of Green Awareness of Price

by João M. Lopes, Luis Filipe Silva, Ilda Massano-Cardoso and Ana Galhardo

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 293; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110293 - 7 Nov 2024

Abstract

As environmental concerns continue to arise, companies are increasingly turning to green marketing strategies and promoting green purchasing decisions to meet consumer demand for sustainable products and services. Peripheral regions, often overlooked in discussions about sustainability, have a unique opportunity to position themselves [...] Read more.

As environmental concerns continue to arise, companies are increasingly turning to green marketing strategies and promoting green purchasing decisions to meet consumer demand for sustainable products and services. Peripheral regions, often overlooked in discussions about sustainability, have a unique opportunity to position themselves as leaders in environmentally responsible practices through green marketing strategies. This can represent an opportunity to boost economic growth while protecting the environment for future generations. This paper studies the influencers of consumer purchasing decisions in a country located in the periphery of Europe. One thousand two hundred fifty-five responses were collected. A multiple linear regression analysis was conducted. It was found that the decision to purchase green products seems to be influenced by factors such as environmental awareness, the perceived quality of green products, the desire to purchase them, and the prospect of a greener future. This study’s key findings indicate that price awareness acts as a mediator, amplifying the influence of environmental concerns, perceived quality, willingness to purchase, future estimations, and perceived benefits on consumers’ green purchasing decisions. This underscores the importance of consumers’ awareness of the pricing for green products. Understanding the factors influencing green purchasing behavior in peripheral regions of Europe is crucial for businesses and policymakers seeking to promote sustainable consumption practices. The current study offers insights for promoting more sustainable consumption practices in these regions. Full article

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23 pages, 903 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High-Involvement Human Resource Management Practices and Employee Resilience: The Mediating Role of Employee Technology Adaptation—A Case Study of South Sumatra

by Afriyadi Cahyadi, Taufiq Marwa, József Poór, Ahmad Maulana and Katalin Szabó

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 292; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110292 - 6 Nov 2024

Abstract

In the post-COVID-19 era, the need for a resilient workforce to maintain a competitive advantage has become increasingly critical. Despite advancements, there is a research gap in understanding how employee resilience is influenced by high-involvement human resource management practices and employee technology adaptation. [...] Read more.

In the post-COVID-19 era, the need for a resilient workforce to maintain a competitive advantage has become increasingly critical. Despite advancements, there is a research gap in understanding how employee resilience is influenced by high-involvement human resource management practices and employee technology adaptation. This study addresses this gap by developing and empirically testing a mediation model linking to employee technology adaptation and resilience. Theoretical frameworks include the resource-based view, human co-adaptation, and positive organizational behavior. A cross-sectional survey of 322 employees from small and medium enterprises in South Sumatra was conducted. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the mediating role of employee technology adaptation in the relationship between high-involvement human resource management practices and employee resilience. The results indicate that high-involvement human resource management practices positively affects both technology adaptation and resilience. Employee technology adaptation partially mediates this relationship. The findings offer practical insights for human resource managers, suggesting that fostering technology adaptation through high-involvement human resource management practices can enhance employee resilience. This study concludes with a discussion on the theoretical and practical implications contributing to the development of small and medium enterprises in the digital era post COVID-19. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Human Resource Management Innovation and Practice in a Digital Age)

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24 pages, 977 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Typology of Business Incubators in Spain According to the Stages of Startups Incubation

by Ana Asensio-Ciria, Carmen De-Pablos-Heredero, Francisco José Blanco Jiménez and Antón García Martínez

Adm. Sci. 2024, 14(11), 291; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci14110291 - 5 Nov 2024

Abstract

The aim of this work was to classify the business incubators in Spain according to the four phases of the startup’s incubation process. Considering that the graduation rate implies greater survival and business success of the incubated companies, they have been identified at [...] Read more.

The aim of this work was to classify the business incubators in Spain according to the four phases of the startup’s incubation process. Considering that the graduation rate implies greater survival and business success of the incubated companies, they have been identified at each stage of the incubation (spread of entrepreneurship, pre-incubation, advanced incubation, and graduation). The activities that present higher impacts on the success of the incubated companies and the activities carried out by the business incubator that have a greater relevance on the graduation of the companies have concretely been considered. Principal component (PC) cluster analysis has been applied. All the incubation variables were used simultaneously, reducing their number and grouping them into factors. Finally, the cases were grouped according to these latent variables. Principal component analysis reduced dimensionality to eight factors with a 74% explained variance. Factor 1 was positively related to pre-incubation variables; factor 2 was linked to training and collaboration variables within the entrepreneurship diffusion phase. Factor 3, named activity monitoring and control, was related to phase 3, or basic incubation variables. Cluster analysis facilitates the grouping of business incubators into three clusters: Group 1 (16% of the total), incubators with strong deficits in incubation phases 1, 2, and 3. They are small-sized business incubators, often located in rural areas or cities, with a low graduation rate. Group 2 (30%), business incubators with a very high graduation rate and strongly positive values in factors 1 and 2. Factor 3, although positive, is susceptible to improvement. They are the largest group of business incubators and usually located in industrial and technological parks. Group 3 (54%) is the majority, with values close to clusters 2 and 3. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Moving from Entrepreneurial Intention to Behavior)

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