PurposeCountry comparative studies especially in Africa on public procurement reforms toward financial control and accountability of public expenditure are limited. Meanwhile, these kinds of studies have potential for providing useful insights on how value for money through public procurement is being ensured across Africa. This paper attempts to provide this. The purpose of this paper is to highlight several policy recommendations for public management aimed at improving public procurement and public financial management (PFM) systems in Africa. Design/methodology/approachThe paper adopts a qualitative case study using secondary data drawn from Global Integrity Index (GII) of the Transparency International and the World Bank’s Country Policy and Institutional Assessments databases to investigate variables that influence public procurement practices in three purposively selected African countries. The comparative approach for presenting some of the experiences of countries in public procurement methods is used in this paper. FindingsThe findings suggest three main variables, namely, government structure and economic variables, complicated by socio-cultural values interact to influence public procurement and PFM systems in the case study countries. Research limitations/implicationsData for the GII indicators used were only available from 2013, which restricted the discussion of those indicators to a short span (2013–2015). Social implicationsThe socio-cultural milieu within which public procurement takes place has implications for how governance structures function to deliver value-for-money public procurement. Originality/valueThis study adds value by comparing three countries within Africa to reveal common variables which influence public procurement and PFM systems.
PurposeAlthough the significance of digital innovation readiness for organizations has been widely acknowledged, the factors that contribute to it remain underexposed and fragmented. Therefore, this scoping review aims to comprehensively map and synthesize the existing literature on factors contributing to digital innovation readiness. Design/methodology/approachThis review uses Arksey and O'Malley's (2005) methodological framework to identify factors that contribute to digital innovation readiness. Five electronic databases were systematically searched, and to validate findings from that literature search and add insights that do not appear in the literature, six semi-structured interviews were conducted among senior digital innovation experts. Thematic analysis with a deductive and inductive approach was used to analyze interview transcripts. FindingsFive factors and 13 sub-factors were identified from these studies. The interviews validated the 13 sub-factors and suggested one more – resource allocation. Thus, five main factors and 14 sub-factors were identified to contribute to digital innovation readiness. Originality/valueFindings from this study offer clarity on factors that contribute to digital innovation readiness.
Purpose This study aims to develop a human-centric Generative AI (GenAI)-enabled decision-support framework for sustainable agroecology supply chains under the Industry 5.0 paradigm. The framework integrates fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP) and fuzzy C-Means (FCM) clustering to bridge digital innovation with ecological and social sustainability, ensuring participatory and adaptive decision-making in organic and community-based farming systems. Design/methodology/approach The research employs a hybrid FAHP-FCM model supported by ChatGPT as an interpretive reasoning layer. ChatGPT translates qualitative expert judgments and field narratives into structured fuzzy inputs, enhancing contextual adaptability and interpretability. The model is validated through a case study of a long-established agroecological community in India, where ten organic farming alternatives are evaluated across Functional-, Biological-, and Practice-Based Knowledge domains. Findings The integrated framework identified a set of bridging practices that effectively connect scientific innovation with farmers' experiential ecological wisdom. Through interpretive reasoning, ChatGPT uncovered overlaps among diverse knowledge domains, transforming complex numerical outputs into transparent, context-sensitive insights accessible to both farmers and decision-makers. These outcomes highlight how human-AI collaboration can foster adaptive, transparent, and socially inclusive agroecological transformation. Practical implications The framework enables decision-makers to prioritize sustainable agroecological practices by integrating digital, biological, and experiential knowledge. It enhances transparency, adaptability, and participatory governance within sustainable supply chains. Social implications By combining human reasoning with AI interpretability, the framework promotes inclusivity, ecological resilience, and community empowerment. It supports farmers in making informed, context-aware decisions aligned with Industry 5.0 values. Originality/value This research establishes a conceptualization of a GenAI-integrated fuzzy decision-support system that unites scientific, digital, and indigenous knowledge bases. It advances the Industry 5.0 vision of human-centric, participatory, and knowledge-driven management for sustainable agroecology supply chains.
PurposeIt is important to understand the risks, challenges, and adverse effects on Sustainable development goals (SDGs) associated with the accelerated growth of AI. New green initiatives are also evolving to mitigate these challenges. Therefore, it is imperative to analyse the relationship dynamics between the risks involved, their mitigating initiatives, and the SDGs.Design/methodology/approachThis study employed an extensive literature review, discussions with experts, and an examination of causality loops in AI challenges to achieve the SDGs. The stepwise weight assessment ratio analysis (SWARA) was deployed to identify the key challenges, and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP)facilitated an understanding of the relationships between AI challenges and mitigating initiatives.FindingsThe final synthesised outcome from AHP has prioritized the seven challenges from accelerated AI growth. The top three challenges - human inequality and biases, the increased digital divide, and unsustainable energy consumption constitute 79% of the impact of the challenges to the growing AI applications.Research limitations/implicationsThe prioritised factors identified will serve stakeholders in developing relevant policies, investing in the right areas, and facilitating where to focus in the sustainability journey. AHP results have prompted the need for an index-the SDG Achievement Index (SAI). The index is expected to find application in real business.Originality/valueThe application of the AHP methodology to analyse the hierarchy and priorities in AI challenges and green initiatives is the original contribution of this research study. The suggested measure, SAI, is a useful approach for quantifying and tracking the trends of the impact of Green AI initiatives on the SDGs. The current research study is topical, enriching the literature, and insightful to practitioners.
Purpose - This study aims to evaluate the relative efficiency of 12 major Indian ports by applying neutrosophic data envelopment analysis (NDEA), a novel technique that extends traditional DEA by incorporating the dimensions of indeterminacy, falsity and truth. The research addresses the need for uncertainty-informed efficiency assessment in the context of India's synchromodal logistics landscape, where ports serve as critical nodes for flexible modal transitions. Design/methodology/approach - The study employs both classical DEA and NDEA to assess port performance. NDEA is particularly suited for handling the layered uncertainties present in port operations such as fluctuating cargo volumes, imprecise manpower data and variable waiting times. The analysis is theoretically grounded in the dynamic capability theory (DCT) and the natural resource-based view (NRBV). Waiting time is interpreted through the lens of DCT as a reflection of operational agility, while manpower and port capacity are linked to NRBV as sustainable, valuable and inimitable resources. Findings - The comparative analysis reveals that traditional DEA may overestimate efficiency scores by overlooking data ambiguity. In contrast, NDEA offers a more realistic portrayal of efficiency under uncertain conditions. It highlights which ports are operationally resilient and which are more vulnerable to performance variability. These differentiated insights are valuable for logistics planning and infrastructure policy-making in a dynamic and uncertain environment. Originality/value - To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is among the first to apply neutrosophic DEA in evaluating port performance, introducing a novel methodological contribution to the operations and supply chain management literature.
PurposeIn the present scenario, a smartphone is a necessity in our daily lives. Over the last few years, smartphone usage has shown extraordinary progress. The Indian telecom market is one of the major revenue contributors to the Indian gross domestic product. Due to the increased use of smartphones, concerns are rising about the impact of electromagnetic radiation from towers and mobile phones. The purpose of the study is to understand the risk perception and attitudes towards the Electro-Magnetic Fields (EMF) associated with the smartphone.Design/methodology/approachThe variables for the study were taken from the present literature assessment and finalised with the support of professionals from industry and academia. Around these variables, a semi-structured interview was conducted, and responses were collected from a different segment of telecom experts and consumers. The study provides essential implications for practitioners and academicians.FindingsThe research used a case study method to understand the scientific evidence and ground reality of the smartphone and tower radiations. In this study, the Situation Actor Process-Learning Action Performance (SAP-LAP) Hills framework has been used to describe learning from the relationships between the variables.Research limitations/implicationsThe case study has also revealed some relevant facts for policymakers. Supportive government policy, entrepreneurial growth, and global competitiveness have been the strategic variables for the telecom industry, and low R&D investment has been the most significant barrier to the growth of the telecom ecosystem. This study provides the foundation for one of the least studied areas in smartphones.Originality/valueThe case study technique has been used to study the impact of telecom tower radiation on consumer perception. Regulatory authorities are primarily concerned with tower regulations and the effect of EMF on the impact on human life. Government policy provides precautionary guidelines for the service provider and smartphone manufacturers. The trust towards the regulatory authority plays an essential part in producing public confidence. The regulatory authority guidelines have a significant impact on the performance of telecommunications companies. Therefore, the government needs to make strict regulations for smartphone manufacturers and telecom companies to protect their users.
PurposeDrawing upon the social exchange theory (SET), this study aims to explore the relationship between organizational injustice and employees' thriving at work by examining organizational cynicism as a mediator and psychological safety as a moderator.Design/methodology/approachData were collected from 310 employees working in Vietnamese service enterprises using a purposive sampling technique. Partial least squares structural equation modeling in SmartPLS 4.0 was used to test the proposed hypotheses.FindingsThe results showed a negative relationship between organizational injustice and employees' thriving at work. Notably, this negative relationship was partially mediated by organizational cynicism. Moreover, psychological safety moderated the negative relationship between organizational injustice and thriving at work, such that the effect is weaker when psychological safety is higher.Research limitations/implicationsThe study employed a cross-sectional research approach to examine employees' perceptions at a certain time. Therefore, it is advised that future research employ longitudinal surveys to capture perceptions at the appropriate moment.Practical implicationsThis study contributes practical implications by minimizing the unfair behaviors and cynical attitudes in the organization. The finding also indicates that fostering psychological safety could mitigate the negative effects of unfair behaviors in the workplace and promote employee vitality and learning.Originality/valueThis study is one of a few empirical studies examining how and when organizational injustice negatively impacts employees' thriving at work in a collectivistic, Confucian Asian culture. It sheds light on how organizational injustice can hinder employees' ability to thrive through organizational cynicism, which disrupts reciprocal exchanges of benefits and resources, leading to adverse outcomes such as impaired thriving at work. Furthermore, it shows that the negative influence of organizational injustice on employees' thriving at work varies across different levels of psychological safety.
PurposeThe main goal is to reconsider the number of servers to a specified value so that the sum of the traveling cost of every customer to servers, as well as the sum of the input costs relative to each server, is minimized. To this end, we propose a mathematical programming model and to solve the proposed model, we propose a two-level genetic algorithm.Design/methodology/approachIn this article, we propose a novel allocation-location problem, considering the efficiency concept based on data envelopment analysis. In most location models, a predetermined capacity is associated with each server. In this article, we propose a new joint model in the efficiencies of the servers are considered as their capacities.FindingsWe apply our models in the transportation of high school's students in Shahrood city, who are faced with a low rate of new entrants and the number of high schools needs to be reconsidered. In other words, the aim is to reconsider (reducing in our case) the number of schools regarding the rate of student entrance and population size.Originality/valueWe propose a novel allocation-location problem, considering the efficiency concept based on data envelopment analysis. In most location models, a predetermined capacity is associated with each server. In this article, we propose a new joint model in the efficiencies of the servers are considered as their capacities.
PurposeIn recent years, the concept of metaverse, where individuals can interact amongst each other and digital objects, has gained popularity. The metaverse has the potential to revolutionize how businesses operate by enabling remote work, immersive staff training and virtual events for customers. The metaverse presents opportunities for various industries, including gaming, real estate, education and retail, to develop digital and sustainable platforms. This study aims to identify and evaluate the potential readiness factors of digitalization among stakeholders in an organization for effective businesses.Design/methodology/approachInitially, a thorough examination of existing literature is conducted, and input gathered from the experts was used to identify 15 readiness factors that drive digitalization within the metaverse environment. Next, the best-worst method is adopted to prioritize the identified readiness factors based on their importance and total interpretive structural modelling and the Cross-Impact Matrix Multiplication Applied to Classification technique are employed to analyse the interrelationships among the readiness factors.FindingsThe results from the study indicate that the most significant readiness factors for digital platforms in the metaverse are user-centred design concepts, artificial intelligence and machine learning skills, data management and privacy, real-time data analytics and insights and scalable and adaptable architecture and technological infrastructure.Originality/valueThis study aims to make a valuable contribution to the existing body of knowledge on organizations' intentions to transition to the digital and sustainable platform in a methodical manner that benefits both decision-makers and end-users.
PurposeThe stock market helps in channelising the savings to the companies, thereby providing the necessary capital to the companies and economies to grow. The stock markets have reached their ever-highest level, and when the stock market is green and bullish, and study aims to explore investors' motives to invest in the stock market. The study aims to develop a model incorporating attitude and subjective norms from the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) along with expected return, dividends and financial literacy in investigating the motives of investors to invest in the stock market in India.Design/methodology/approachQuantitative data were collected using a survey method where 280 questionnaires were sent, and 195 useable questionnaires were returned, thus yielding a response of 77.38%. The respondents were individual investors who were investing in the stock market in all regions of India. The constructs were analysed using exploratory factor analysis and the model was developed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM).FindingsThe study found that attitude, expected returns and financial literacy have a direct and positive impact, while subjective norms and dividends are not strong predictors of investors' motives to invest in the stock market. The R2 of the model is 0.409, which gives an acceptable predictability of the independent variables of the investor's motives to invest in the stock market.Research limitations/implicationsThe study was conducted in an emerging economy, namely India; therefore, the results of the study may not apply to other developed nations. In addition to this, the study is conducted when the stock markets are at their peak; a similar study at different times may yield different results.Practical implicationsThe results of the study offer managerial implications to companies and financial advisors by providing insights into the motives of investors to invest in the stock market. This can further help in increasing the retail participation of investors in the stock market. Policymakers can take a cue from the study's results and organise seminars and discussions to promote financial literacy, which will help more investors invest in the stock market.Social implicationsThe economy can grow if it can direct the savings of individuals towards the formation of capital by providing a platform. Thus, the study has social value as it helps in unearthing the motives of investors to invest in the stock market.Originality/valueThe study and its results are important to the body of knowledge as they explored the motives of investors, and to the best of the author's knowledge, no study has studied motives in the emerging countries. The study shows that dividend is not a motive to invest in the stock market, which is the study's unique contribution.
PurposeThe study's primary objective is to examine the impact of Climate Policy Uncertainty (CPU) on corporate commitment to climate change action. Furthermore, it explores whether the firms improve their carbon performance in response to increased uncertainty around climate policies.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses a sample of S&P 500 firms for a period spanning from 2015 to 2021. It employs the ordered logistic and fixed effect regression models to test the hypotheses.FindingsThe study finds a positive likelihood of corporate commitment to climate change action amid increased CPU, but it varies with the firms' level of commitment towards climate change action. Firms with a low commitment tend to increase their efforts to negate the adverse effects of rising CPU, while firms with a high commitment are not concerned. The study also demonstrates a positive relationship between the CPU and carbon performance of the firm, indicating that increased CPU reduces firm-level carbon emissions. However, this relationship varies at different levels of corporate commitment to climate change action.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the existing literature by examining the effects of the CPU on corporate commitment to climate change action. The study is the first to enhance the understanding of firms' climate change-related response to CPU. Furthermore, the study reveals that the rising CPU improves the firm-level carbon performance.
PurposeThis study aims to identify and analyze the critical drivers for the effective implementation of circular supply chain practices in Indian micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).Design/methodology/approachA mixed-methods approach is used in this study. The qualitative literature review approach and expert help are employed to identify drivers. Further, the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method is applied for quantitative analysis to analyze the interrelationship and causal relationship among identified drivers.FindingsThe study modeled critical drivers for circular supply chain management (CSCM) implementation for Indian MSMEs. The ranking of identified drivers and their influence and differentiation based on cause and effect is analyzed by using the DEMATEL approach. The study sheds light on the areas of improvement and interdependencies among the drivers for strategic interventions.Research limitations/implicationsThe study offers significant implications to all the supply chain stakeholders. The policymakers, practitioners and researchers will benefit substantially from the findings of this research. The analysis will help the MSMEs shift towards circular supply chain practices. The findings help policymakers to foster economic growth and sustainability by supporting the specific needs of MSMEs. Researchers have the opportunity to explore other such dimensions of CSCM and MSMEs.Originality/valueThe study employed the DEMATEL method for analyzing and modeling CSCM implementation drivers. A distinctive perspective is offered to propagate the circular practices in Indian MSMEs. The mixed method of identifying and analyzing drivers strengthened the study and made it more resilient to the unpredictable and complex nature of MSME operations in the Indian context.
PurposeThe organic reconfiguration in supply chain practices significantly varies with restaurant types, customers and the extent of the degree of serving organic food. The purpose of this study is to develop a quantitative application to measure the degree of serving Organic Food for Restaurant Supply Chains.Design/methodology/approachThe detailed semi-structured interviews, onsite visits and secondary customer reviews of 60 restaurants of different sizes, locations and cuisines from India are used to explore typologies of organic supply chains. In the second stage, an approach for evaluating the degree of organic food serving is developed on the basis of Supply Chain Operations Reference (SCOR) attributes, and differences between typologies are statistically tested using non-parametric Mann-Whitney U-test.FindingsThe results show that the degree of serving organic food differs with the type of restaurants across SCOR attributes. Based on the variations in SC practices, the work presents two types of restaurant supply chains - Organic Food Enthusiast (Type-I) and b) Village Voyagers (Type-II). The difference between the degree of serving organic food for the "Make" and "Enable" attributes is statistically insignificant. Despite variations in the strategic positioning, customer type and geographical context, both the organic supply chains tend to preserve their core making process.Practical implicationsThe degree of serving organic food for each individual element of the SCOR model can be used by practitioners and managers to identify specific problems and opportunity areas where practical actions could be defined and taken to improve the organic food-based supply chain reconfiguration.Originality/valueThis paper proposes the quantitative approach to evaluating organic food serving capabilities of restaurant supply chains. Further, it empirically demonstrates the typologies of organic food serving supply chains.
PurposeThe impact of word of mouth on the diffusion of innovation is multifaceted. Researchers have primarily focused on the positive effect of word of mouth on customer decisions, leaving the negative aspect largely unexplored. In this study, the authors have addressed this gap and examined the influence of negative word-of-mouth on current and potential customers, and proposed an innovation adoption process.Design/methodology/approachPromotional activities play a critical role in re-establishing customer trust and fostering a positive brand perception in the presence of customer churning. However, implementing promotions haphazardly, whether for an extended or shorter duration can result in exorbitant costs. Therefore, to strike a balance between the effectiveness of the promotion and associated expenditures, the authors have proposed an optimization model to determine the optimal promotional duration in the presence of negative word of mouth.FindingsThe proposed model has been validated using a few real-life data sets, ensuring its reliability and accuracy. The obtained results significantly validate and support the proposal's successful implementation. The findings demonstrate the practical feasibility of implementing the adoption modeling.Originality/valueEmbracing a proactive strategy enables firms to optimize their promotional efforts with greater efficiency, thereby regaining the confidence of potential customers and reviving their brand's reputation in a prudent and economically viable manner.
The objective of this study is to offer a comprehensive review of the role of decision support systems (DSS) in enhancing performance monitoring and decision-making in public administration (PA). The study aims to address the fragmented nature of existing literature on DSS in PA and provide a holistic overview of its applications and potential benefits. A systematic literature review following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines was conducted, analyzing peer-reviewed studies from Scopus and Web of Science databases published over two decades (2004–2024). A thematic synthesis approach was used to align findings with three research questions concerning DSS significance, adoption barriers and emerging trends in public governance. Our review demonstrates that DSS significantly enhances administrative efficiency, transparency and policy responsiveness, contributing to Sustainable Development Goal 16. However, the literature remains fragmented, with limited understanding of implementation barriers, impact measurement and governance improvements enabled by DSS. Emerging trends highlight the integration of artificial intelligence, blockchain technologies and ethical frameworks for decision automation. The study offers a detailed synthesis of DSS applications in PA and outlines a forward-looking research agenda that addresses key adoption challenges and technology-led governance reforms. It also provides actionable guidance for policymakers and technology developers to support the strategic implementation of DSS across various administrative settings.
PurposeThis study develops a Strategic Knowledge Management (KM) Framework for Helicopter Operations (SKMF-HO) to address the challenges of tacit expertise, frequent crew rotations, and complex maintenance, which are unique to helicopter operations. The framework aims to convert tacit operational knowledge into digital intelligence and strengthen aviation safety and performance. Additionally, the study introduces two helicopter-specific knowledge dynamics - Tacit Knowledge Velocity (TKV) and Tacit Knowledge Fragility (TKF) - to explain how knowledge transfer speed and vulnerability influence safety outcomes in rotary-wing environments.Design/methodology/approachA triangulated mixed-method strategy integrates a literature review, case studies, and a survey of 42 professionals from the civil and military helicopter sectors. Validation is strengthened through triangulation with safety-repository data and practitioner assessments. The study operationalizes Tacit Knowledge Velocity (TKV) and Tacit Knowledge Fragility (TKF) using survey indicators and case evidence, enabling an integrated assessment of knowledge flow efficiency and vulnerability.FindingsSystemic barriers were identified, including cultural resistance to reporting, overreliance on tacit knowledge, and the underutilisation of Health and Usage Monitoring Systems (HUMS). Case evidence suggests that digital Knowledge Management (KM) tools, predictive maintenance, and AI-driven analytics are associated with improvements such as approximately 20-30% fewer safety occurrences and 10-15% higher fleet availability, although these remain context-dependent. The framework is structured around five pillars: Leadership and Culture, Knowledge Infrastructure, Knowledge Processes and Governance, Learning and Continuous Improvement, and Safety Integration. Tacit Knowledge Velocity (TKV) and Tacit Knowledge Fragility (TKF) offer a theoretical basis for analysing how knowledge-flow speed and fragility shape operational risk.Research limitations/implicationsThis study was based on a pilot survey and selected case studies, which may limit its generalizability. Wider cross-operator validation and longitudinal studies are recommended to strengthen its applicability. Tacit Knowledge Velocity (TKV) and Tacit Knowledge Fragility (TKF) also provide measurable constructs for future KM maturity assessment across rotorcraft operators.Practical implicationsSKMF-HO offers helicopter operators a structured, practice-oriented roadmap to institutionalize learning, reduce operational risks, and align with the ICAO, FAA, and IATA safety standards. Tacit Knowledge Velocity (TKV) and Tacit Knowledge Fragility (TKF) further enable diagnostic assessment of knowledge-flow gaps and high-risk knowledge dependencies.Social implicationsStrengthening KM practices through SKMF-HO enhances societal safety by reducing incident likelihood, improving mission reliability, and ensuring safer helicopter operations across civil, defence, and EMS sectors. By institutionalising tacit knowledge and addressing fragile knowledge dependencies, the framework minimises repeat errors and reduces safety vulnerabilities linked to crew turnover and operational complexity. Communities benefit directly through more reliable medical evacuation, disaster response, and search-and-rescue missions. A stronger reporting culture and faster knowledge transfer reinforce transparency, accountability, and public trust in aviation systems. Collectively, these improvements support broader societal expectations for safe, resilient, and knowledge-driven helicopter services.Originality/valueThis framework advances existing KM and SMS research by providing a helicopter-specific integration of tacit expertise, structured KM processes, and digital enablers for rotary-wing aviation. The introduction of Tacit Knowledge Velocity (TKV) and Tacit Knowledge Fragility (TKF) represents a novel theoretical contribution that enriches KM scholarship by capturing the dynamic and fragile nature of knowledge flows in helicopter operations - an area largely overlooked in existing aviation KM studies.
PurposeThis study examines the relationships among cross-functionality, the fuzzy front end (FFE) and organisational performance. Specifically, it investigates how two distinct dimensions of cross-functionality - integration between functions (IBF) and multifunctional employees (MFE) - interact with the FFE in shaping performance outcomes. Drawing on the knowledge-based view, this study conceptualises cross-functionality as a knowledge resource and the FFE as a capability for resource utilisation.Design/methodology/approachUsing data from manufacturing plants across 13 countries in the fourth round of the High Performance Manufacturing Project (2013-2016), this study employs partial least squares structural equation modelling to examine the direct, mediating and moderating relationships among FFE activities, cross-functionality dimensions and multiple performance metrics, including new product development (NPD) success, quality and customer satisfaction.FindingsThe results reveal that FFE activities significantly influence not only immediate NPD success but also longer-term outcomes such as quality and customer satisfaction. Moreover, the two dimensions of cross-functionality play distinct roles: IBF primarily serves as a knowledge resource that enhances FFE effectiveness, while MFE acts as a critical moderator, strengthening the relationship between FFE and performance outcomes.Originality/valueThis study advances the literature by (1) providing the first empirical evidence of FFE's impact on long-term performance outcomes, (2) demonstrating how different cross-functionality dimensions distinctly influence the FFE-performance relationship and (3) offering a comprehensive framework for understanding the complex interplay between FFE activities and cross-functional integration in driving both immediate and long-term performance.
Purpose This paper aims to provide an overview of the air transport sector with a focus on the sustainable management of airports. It explains the challenges and approach to managing an airport in a sustainable manner. The paper brings out the need for and importance of sustainable management of an airport. Design/methodology/approach The study uses qualitative research methodology by reviewing theories, concepts and past studies related to airports and their sustainable management. The paper brings out the importance of the airports and the complexity involved in managing their operations. The approach to manage an airport sustainably is also explained in the article. Some examples of best practices in sustainable airport management are also given. Findings The airports are one of the largest and most complex systems in the world. Airports are major contributors to carbon emissions, primarily due to their large-scale infrastructure and around-the-clock operations. Although many airports are exceeding regulatory standards to enhance sustainability, there is still limited emphasis on addressing social factors. Significant progress has been made in reducing carbon footprints, but greater attention must be given to social sustainability. In the future, sustainability efforts are expected to expand to prioritize human well-being, aligning with the evolving sustainability framework. Originality/value The paper adds to the literature on airport sustainability by reviewing key concepts and approaches in sustainable airport management, while also highlighting various sustainable practices implemented by airports.
PurposeWithin the banking industry, gamification is a strategic response to customer hedonic and interaction-oriented preferences. However, many gamification programs fail due to improper game mechanism selection and not considering customer expectations. To increase the effectiveness of gamification programs, this study has been conducted to optimize their design by aligning them with customers' preferences and elements of interest.Design/methodology/approachThis research is designed in the form of three consecutive studies. In the first study, the elements of gamification programs have been identified through a systematic review. In the second phase, the sensitivity analysis of a multilayer perceptron neural network has been used to determine the importance of these elements. In the third study, 22 test profiles were evaluated based on the full profile model of conjoint analysis.FindingsThe results highlight that goals (importance 0.146), rewards (0.139) and customization (0.098) significantly influence banking customers. Conjoint analysis indicates a strong preference for investment-focused gamified financial programs (partial utility 3.379), continuous feedback (0.565), storyline exploration (0.399) and absence of time pressure (0.383).Practical implicationsThis article contains suggestions for increasing the effectiveness of gamification programs and determines what customers want from a gamification program and what factors in these programs are attractive to them.Originality/valuePrevious research has rarely addressed customer expectations and preferences in the design of gamification programs. The results of this study can increase the success rate of gamification and provide the possibility of saving the costs allocated to the programs.
PurposeThis study aims to explore the non-financial parameters (NFPs) of strategic investment decision-making (SIDM) and their impacts on corporate financial performance (CFP).Design/methodology/approachIn this quantitative study, first, primary data were collected through a survey questionnaire from the managers of listed Pakistani manufacturing firms during 2018 via personal visits to companies, and 142 valid responses were received. The secondary data included annual reports and stock market data, which were used to measure CFP with indicators such as profitability growth and Tobin's q. Principal component analysis (PCA) was applied to identify the NFP focus in SIDM, such as top management or firm strategy emphasis. Various regression models were used to thoroughly consider the impact of the NFPs on financial performance.FindingsThe study shows that the different emphases of SIDM cannot explain financial performance very well. However, there is an indication that the firm strategy component (emphasis) is positively linked to the profitability growth and share price growth. Moreover, top-level management emphasis seems to influence Tobin q.Research limitations/implicationsThis study highlights how, for example, the management may contribute to operational performance. Understanding these dynamics provides insights into how businesses create value for shareholders and for the society.Practical implicationsFor example, top-level management can impact SIDMs and CFPs, but managers also need to consider company-specific aspects of the decisions and performance.Originality/valueThe study enriches the academic and managerial literature by explicitly analyzing the impact of SIDM in a developing country context.
