This study employed Google Scholar and Scopus to systematically review the role of microfinance in enhancing the performance of women-owned small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). It was guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 protocol. The researcher identified, screened, assessed eligibility, and included 22 articles among the 90 articles that were consulted. The study applied thematic analysis, in which the studies were appraised, and the risk of bias was assessed to determine their inclusion. Studies in English, published between 2000 and 2025, with titles that included terms such as microfinance, SME performance, and SSA, were included in the analysis. The study excluded master's dissertations, PhD theses, and non-peer-reviewed publications. The analysis revealed that more studies were conducted in Nigeria and Kenya than in other SSA countries. Regression analysis, the most widely used data analysis technique, was used, while longitudinal and comparative studies, as well as individual country-level studies, were lacking. Moreover, access to microcredit was the most widely covered microfinance service by scholars. Most scholars have reported the positive influence of microfinance on women SMEs' performance and profitability, which are the most commonly used indicators of SME performance. The findings further revealed that higher interest rates, collateral requirements, and a lack of gender-anchored, microfinance-sensitive policies limit microfinance's role in improving the performance of women-led SMEs. Policymakers should design policies that address microfinance barriers to improve the performance of women’s SMEs. .
Triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic, the spring 2020 shift to remote work in higher education offers lessons on how to navigate future institutional disruptions. This case study examines the well-being of staff who engaged in remote work at the Oulu University of Applied Sciences (OUAS) before and during the pandemic, with the aim of building crisis resilience in higher education. The study involved quantitative and qualitative analysis of a two-wave, cross-sectional, institution-wide online survey administered in June 2020 and June 2021 (n=77 and n=145). Identical items enabled comparisons; quantitative summaries and hybrid content analysis were mapped to a physical, cognitive, and organisational ergonomics framework. The findings highlight the importance of meaningful face-to-face interaction between staff and students. Reduced contact increased the need for a “sense of belonging” and “student guidance”, although roughly one quarter of respondents reported being largely satisfied with remote arrangements. Reported downsides included “non-stop work” patterns and perceived suboptimal workplace ergonomics. Overall, remote work was associated with diminished social interaction, with potential negative effects on staff wellbeing, collaboration, and the generation of new ideas, patterns consistent with prior pandemic-era research. Translating these insights into resilience principles for HEIs, we recommend: (1) designing hybrid routines that preserve peer contact and student touchpoints; (2) instituting workload boundaries and clear rhythms to prevent continuous work; (3) providing ergonomic support (equipment, micro-break norms, guidance) for home offices; and (4) segmenting support to accommodate differing staff needs while monitoring wellbeing over time. These measures can help HEIs purposefully sustain remote-work wellbeing during future disruptions.
The adoption of financial technology (FinTech) options varies among stakeholders in the form of early minority and late majority, which is also dependent on several factors. Previous studies have focused on the process of business integration and the active use of point of sale (POS) terminals for daily operations, with limited evidence of how ease of use, perceived usefulness and social norms have influenced adoption. Therefore, this study seeks to investigate how perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, social norms and perceived barriers influence the adoption of POS systems among diverse stakeholders in Nigeria’s business environment. The study adopts a cross-sectional research design and obtains primary data from 258 participants using a validated questionnaire. The study is woven around the technology acceptance model and provides empirical explanations within the Nigerian context. The results show that most of the study participants (92.2%) are aware of point of sale (POS) technology, and most of them (95.3 %) have adopted the use of POS at one time or another. The analysis further shows that the majority (91.0 %) of participants reported that the utilisation of POS terminals substantially enhances their payment processes and eliminates the need to carry physical cash, suggesting greater convenience and security. The binary logistic regression revealed that perceived usefulness greatly influenced POS adoption among the participants. Although the perceived subjective norm posits a higher likelihood of influence on the adoption of POS, it was not statistically significant. The implications of the study were highlighted with appropriate recommendations for operators, policy and practice.
Generative AI (Artificial Intelligence) mechanisms such as Gemini, Microsoft Copilot, Grammarly, and more are becoming a significant part of message creation in organisations. However, algorithmic bias creates an ethical, psychological, and strategic dilemma for organisational employees. In this research, the authors explored the impact of automation, authenticity, and trust in corporate messaging on employees' perceived corporate credibility, transparency, and integrity. The authors used a mixed methodology. A survey study was conducted with 246 participants. Further, semi-structured interviews were performed with communication and marketing executives. The research was grounded in Signalling Theory, TAM (Technology Acceptance Model) and Media Richness Theory. The results revealed that while AI helps organisations with communication efficiency, precision and personalisation, it also creates a “credibility gap”, reducing authenticity and accountability. For practical purposes, this research suggests applying co-creation to maintain corporate credibility in the era of algorithmic communication by connecting human creativity with AI-assisted mechanisms. This research contributes to the continued discourse on technological advancements, generative AI and human authenticity in a continuously changing corporate ecosystem.
Foreign market entry represents a multidimensional strategic decision requiring the alignment of internal capabilities, external market conditions, risk exposure, and organizational knowledge. Although the literature offers numerous analytical models—ranging from the resource-based view and dynamic capabilities to internationalization theories such as the Uppsala model and growth frameworks including Ansoff’s matrix—these models are often applied in isolation. Such fragmentation may weaken decision quality and strategic coherence. This study develops and empirically applies an integrated triangulation-based framework for foreign market entry decision-making. The framework combines internal environmental analysis (resources, capabilities, and knowledge management), external market analysis (market attractiveness and institutional risk), and the strategic selection of entry and market positioning models. Methodologically, the research adopts a qualitative case study design, integrating semi-structured managerial interviews, analysis of internal company databases and strategic documents, and secondary market data. The triangulation of data sources and theoretical lenses serves not only to enhance validity but to structure decision-making under uncertainty. The empirical findings demonstrate that foreign market entry is justified when internal organizational readiness, experiential knowledge, and adaptive capabilities align with moderate external risk and sustainable market potential. The study further shows that incremental entry logic, consistent with the Uppsala model, combined with market development positioning (Ansoff) and an operationalized marketing mix, provides a coherent and risk-adjusted strategic pathway. The paper contributes by demonstrating how classical strategic and international business frameworks can be integrated into a unified decision architecture. It offers both theoretical implications and a practical roadmap for managers evaluating foreign expansion under uncertainty.
This paper examines how growth hacking strategies, combined with user experience optimisation and data-driven experimentation, enhance business performance and long-term competitiveness in e-commerce. The study employs a quantitative, data-driven methodology using Google Analytics 4 to collect and analyse six months of e-commerce user data through descriptive, comparative, and behavioural analytics (including segmentation, funnel, and cohort analysis) to evaluate user behaviour, conversion performance, and UX optimisation opportunities. Findings: Integrating growth hacking and UX optimisation significantly improves e-commerce performance by increasing traffic, conversions, and customer retention through data-driven experimentation, SEO, personalisation, and continuous user experience enhancements. The originality and value of this study lie in its integrated, data-driven framework that combines growth hacking and user experience optimisation to demonstrate how their synergy drives sustainable e-commerce performance, offering both empirical insights and practical guidance for digital transformation.
Performance appraisal systems are central components of human resource management; however, limited empirical clarity exists regarding how these systems influence employee motivation within public sector institutions. While performance assessments are widely institutionalized in bureaucratic environments, they are often examined as administrative procedures rather than as motivational mechanisms embedded within HR systems. This study quantitatively assesses the relationship between job performance assessments and employee motivation within the Limpopo Provincial Legislature in Lebowakgomo. Using structured survey data collected from employees subject to formal performance appraisal processes, the study evaluates the association between perceptions of performance assessments and motivational outcomes. The findings indicate a significant relationship between job performance assessments and employee motivation, suggesting that appraisal systems function as influential HR governance mechanisms within public sector settings. By situating performance assessment within HR systems theory, this study contributes to ongoing debates concerning the behavioural implications of performance management in bureaucratic institutions. The results refine understanding of performance appraisal as not merely an evaluative tool, but as a structural mechanism shaping motivational alignment within public sector organizations.
Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are important for growth, jobs, and new ideas in South Africa's fast-changing economy. But they still can't use and integrate Competitive Intelligence (CI), which is a strategic tool for making businesses more sustainable and responsive to the market. The objective of this study is to look at how many SMEs in South Africa are using CI right now and to find the main things that make it easier or harder to use. The research specifically examines the impact of structural difficulties, including financial limitations, insufficient management and technical competence, inadequate infrastructure, and regulatory complications, on the strategic utilization of CI for the sustainability of SMEs. A quantitative study design was utilized, employing a self-administered web-based questionnaire sent to 400 SMEs in Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal, yielding 179 valid replies. To make sure the data was reliable and to find relevant patterns, we used descriptive statistics, exploratory factor analysis, and Cronbach's alpha. The results show that there are big gaps in CI awareness, resource allocation, and strategy integration. They also show that there are ways to make things better through focused interventions, capacity building, and supporting legislative frameworks. This study enhances comprehension of CI dynamics in resource-limited SMEs contexts and offers practical guidance for policymakers, development agencies, and SMEs stakeholders. The research aids the strategic progression of SMEs in accordance with South Africa’s National Development Plan and its objectives for inclusive economic transformation by tackling the obstacles and utilizing the facilitators of CI adoption.
The food retail sector is increasingly shaped by changing consumer preferences towards sustainable, locally sourced, and organically certified food products. This study examines consumer purchasing behaviour in Slovenia, with a particular focus on the role of ECO labels in influencing food choice decisions. Using a quantitative research design, data were collected through an online survey conducted among 200 consumers aged 18–65. The analysis evaluates the relative impact of environmental, psychological, and economic factors on purchasing behaviour, as well as differences across age groups. The results indicate that environmental responsibility and psychological factors, especially trust in ECO labels, have a statistically significant and stronger influence on purchasing decisions than economic considerations such as price sensitivity. Younger consumers demonstrate higher levels of environmental awareness and place greater importance on eco-friendliness when selecting food products. Although ECO labels are perceived as influential by a substantial share of respondents, limited familiarity and partial skepticism towards label credibility remain evident. The findings highlight the importance of transparent, standardized, and credible ECO labeling systems, alongside targeted consumer education initiatives. This study contributes empirical evidence from a smaller European market and provides practical implications for policymakers and food retailers aiming to promote sustainable consumption and environmentally responsible purchasing behavior.
This study analyses the trends in total factor productivity (TFP) in Germany and the USA during the period 2000–2017 using a combination of classical and Bayesian methods. First, TFP was calculated with the Cobb–Douglas production function and the Solow residual, and trends were estimated using linear and interaction models. Parametric estimates confirmed statistically significant higher TFP growth in the USA, while nonparametric permutation tests did not confirm these differences, highlighting the limitations of short time series. The Bayesian panel model made it possible to incorporate prior knowledge about the production function and provided more stable estimates, while posterior tests confirmed good model fit and robustness of the results. Despite the short time span and limited sample, the study offers a meaningful methodological framework for comparative productivity analysis that combines frequentist and Bayesian approaches. Such an approach can also be applied in studies of other countries or over longer time periods.
The research examines how Small, Medium, and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs) in Ekurhuleni Municipality can use technological production management tools to improve their sustainable manufacturing operations. The research involved surveying 300 manufacturing SMMEs through an online questionnaire developed by Google Forms from a total population exceeding for improving operational performance and sustainability. The research team used SPSS v28.0 to evaluate the 4,000. Response of 223 presenting 74.3% response indicated agreement or strong agreement with statements (B1 through B13) the need of access to technological production manufacturing tools of the business, showing that the majority recognize the importance of technological production management tools despite challenges in full utilization. The survey tool evaluated how well SMMEs access technological resources and their effectiveness difference between what manufacturers value in technological tools and their current ability to access these resources. The research results show that numerous businesses understand the worth of these tools, yet they do not have the necessary infrastructure or skills to deploy them. The research results identify three main obstacles which prevent technological adoption through high implementation expenses and insufficient digital skills and insufficient policy backing. The research results provide essential guidance for developing strategies to boost technological adoption in this business sector.
Managing change is a pivotal phenomenon in fostering various sources of business financing to alleviate the worrisome issues often associated with promoting economic development and enhancing SME performance. The study objectives include examining available funding options, the relationship between financing access and business success, and the challenges of securing funds. The study employs a quantitative cross-sectional survey design, utilising two-stage sampling techniques of the clustered and purposive stratified sampling for the selection of three local governments with the highest presence of domiciled SMEs in Lagos State, Nigeria. A questionnaire was administered to a sample of 186 SMEs across the country, based on operational years, relevance, and accessibility. Data were analysed using Pearson's correlation and multiple regression. The study shows that effective management of change in SME financing increases performance, as revealed by results indicating that self-funding is the most commonly used financing option, with other methods showing a positive relationship. Profitability, market share growth, and operational efficiency are indicators of success in creating a user-friendly alternative financing mechanism. At the same time, high interest rates and limited access to information are the primary drivers of challenges for SMEs’ effectiveness. Implementing funding timeliness and availability to encourage key aspects of business performance, reinforce growth sustainability, and improve funding processes, interest rate percentages, literacy awareness programs, and flexible collateral to lower lenders’ risk perception. Study limitations include sample size, reliance on self-collected data, choice of statistical tools, and the use of a mixed-methods approach, all of which could be improved.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) now emerges as an engine in education, with online assessments feeling its most immediate reverberations. This systematic literature review examines the connection between AI tools and the dynamics of the labour market, focusing on scholars in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). Anchored in Herzberg’s Two‑Factor Theory, the review interrogates how AI‑powered assessment platforms shape institutional support, retention tactics, and pedagogical practice. As Gen X declines in the labour market, millennials digital natives seeking innovative and supportive environments have become the prevailing cohort on campuses, pushing universities to rethink assessment practices. AI promises scalable, personalized, and streamlined feedback solutions, yet its rollout raises concerns about staff workload, institutional culture, and digital readiness. To investigate these tensions, the research team applied the (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‑Analyses) PRISMA systematic‑review protocol. A total of 1267 records were retrieved, with 477 duplicates excluded. 790 titles and abstracts were screened, of which 412 were excluded for irrelevance. 378 full‑text articles were assessed, and 292 were excluded for insufficient methodological rigor or lack of AI assessment focus. Finally, 86 studies were retained for synthesis The review connects retention, institutional backing, and generational transitions to the growing use of AI in assessment. Findings show that AI can lift achievement and reduce administrative burdens, but its promise depends on alignment with millennial values and strong institutional endorsement. This study enhances understanding of how AI can sharpen assessment methods while supporting talent retention. In closing, the paper outlines take‑aways for HEIs, acknowledges limitations, and offers directions for future research into AI’s pedagogical and workforce repercussions.
The main objective of this study is to develop a structural causal model that integrates both direct and indirect relationships among the study variables to measure the causal link between digital transformation and enterprise performance, with knowledge management acting as a mediating variable. Data were collected from 72 personnel working in Tramway Management enterprises in Western Algeria (SETRAM), responsible for urban transportation in Oran, Mostaganem, and Sidi Bel Abbes—cities characterised by high population densities. A purposive (judgmental) sampling method was employed, and the collected data were analysed using the PLS-SEM approach. The research demonstrates a strong, direct positive relationship between digital transformation and knowledge management, as well as between knowledge management and enterprise performance. Although digital transformation also exerts a positive and statistically significant influence on enterprise performance, this effect is not particularly strong. Importantly, knowledge management exhibits a partial mediating role in the link between digital transformation and enterprise performance. The study offers insights into how government-supervised institutions perform during digital transformation. Findings emphasise the need to invest in digital transformation and knowledge management to maintain institutional continuity in line with Algeria’s economic reforms. This empirical study contributes to the ongoing debate by demonstrating that digital transformation enhances enterprise performance, particularly through the mediating role of knowledge management.
The abolition of corporal punishment in South African schools has significantly reshaped classroom management and disciplinary practices. This study explores how principals and teachers in Umlazi District navigate teaching and learning in the absence of corporal punishment. Using a qualitative interpretivist approach, the research draws on the lived experiences of 16 school management team members across four secondary schools. Findings reveal a disconnect between policy ideals and classroom realities, with educators facing increased learner defiance, strained teacher-student relationships, and emotional burnout. The study identifies systemic challenges such as inadequate training, limited resources, and inconsistent parental support. Despite these constraints, some educators have adopted restorative and learner-centred strategies, including behaviour tracking and collaborative learning. The Concerns-Based Adoption Model (CBAM) provides a framework for analysing educators’ responses to disciplinary reform, highlighting varied levels of adaptation and use. International comparisons underscore the need for culturally responsive and contextually grounded approaches to discipline. The study contributes to ongoing debates on post-corporal punishment education and offers practical insights for policymakers, teacher educators, and school leaders seeking to foster inclusive, respectful, and effective learning environments.
This study explored the financial management capabilities of school committees in selected primary and secondary schools in the Manzini and Lubombo regions. Effective financial management is essential for transparency, accountability, and the proper use of educational resources. In Eswatini, school committees play a central role in managing school finances. Guided by Agency Theory and Financial Governance Theory, this study examines how school committees in Eswatini manage financial resources and exercise accountability. The research used a phenomenological design and qualitative approach to explore the experiences of school committee members and principals. The study was conducted in five public schools across the two regions. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with ten participants and analysed using thematic analysis. The findings revealed five linked themes: limited financial literacy, weak budgeting processes, reliance on manual record-keeping, inadequate accountability mechanisms, and unclear role boundaries between principals and committee members. Together, these issues reduce transparency and hamper sound financial decision-making. The study concludes that decentralisation without proper capacity building leads to financial inefficiencies and undue dependence on school committees. It recommends continuous financial management training, the adoption of digital accounting systems, and a clearer definition of roles and responsibilities to strengthen accountability and governance in Eswatini’s education sector.
Because of its potential to improve the quality, accessibility, and effectiveness of educational systems worldwide, the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) into educational management has drawn the attention of numerous academics in the field. This study examines the uses and challenges of AI in educational management. The study uses resources such as Google Scholar, ResearchGate, ScienceDirect, and Scopus to synthesise material published between 2023 and 2025, employing a scoping review approach. According to the findings, the use of AI in educational management can improve student performance and engagement, automate repetitive tasks, facilitate data-driven decision-making, increase administrative efficiency, improve the quality and efficiency of management work, personalise learning experiences, support equity and inclusivity in education, optimise resources, and facilitate communication and engagement. Nevertheless, its use is hampered by issues like data privacy and security breaches, the digital divide, ethical concerns, high implementation costs, a lack of technical know-how, infrastructure constraints, a lack of AI-integrated curricula, restricted access to technology, and resistance to change. This review highlights the critical need for a more thorough understanding of AI in educational management and identifies key topics, gaps, and future research objectives in the fragmented literature. Future research should examine flexible approaches to integrating AI into educational administration, emphasising the value of ongoing studies in this area.
Purpose: This study attempts to examine how ABCD (Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Cloud, and Data) technologies influence postsecondary learning measurements. It specifically examines students' beliefs, behavior, and action intentions, and how the ABCD technologies impact customized learning, academic integrity, collaboration, and belief in grading. Study design/methodology/approach: A quantitative design was applied with a structured survey distributed to university students. Statistical tests of correlation and regression tests were carried out to test the relationships between Perceived Usefulness (PU), Perceived Ease of Use (PEU), and Behavioral Intention (BI) in the adoption of ABCD technologies. Findings: Results did not imply a strong correlation between Perceived Usefulness, Perceived Ease of Use, and Behavioral Intentions, stating students' adoption of ABCD technologies is less likely to be accounted for by individual factors, i.e., institutional support, infrastructure, and faculty participation. Although students are aware of potential benefits of ABCD technologies in terms of enhancing assessment efficiency and security, concerns over fairness, usability, and engagement remain barriers to greater adoption. Originality/value: The present research adds to the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Constructivist Learning Theory (CLT) by emphasizing the role of context and institutional drivers in the adoption of technology. It presents pragmatic advice to educational institutions for improving faculty development, digital infrastructure, and policy mechanisms for efficient and moral utilization of ABCD technology in assessment in learning.
