Abstract Purpose This study examines how CEO overconfidence influences business model innovation (BMI) through organizational exploration and investigates the governance and managerial conditions under which exploratory initiatives generate sustained innovation outcomes. Specifically, it explores the complementary roles of board expertise, board power, managerial advice-seeking capabilities, and coordination flexibility in transforming strategic risk-taking into adaptive innovation. Design/methodology/approach Drawing on upper echelons theory, corporate governance research, organizational exploration, and the dynamic managerial capabilities perspective, this study develops and tests a multi-level conceptual framework. Multi-source survey and archival data were collected from 319 publicly listed and large private firms operating in Malaysia. The proposed relationships were analysed using structural equation modelling. Findings The findings indicate that CEO overconfidence positively influences organizational exploration, but its impact on BMI depends on effective governance and managerial capabilities. Board expertise and board power strengthen the positive effects of exploratory initiatives by directing executive risk-taking towards productive opportunities. Furthermore, managerial advice-seeking capabilities enhance exploration breadth, while coordination flexibility facilitates the conversion of exploratory activities into business model innovation. The results demonstrate that alignment among executive cognition, governance structures, and managerial capabilities is essential for sustaining innovation in technologically dynamic environments. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature by conceptualizing organizational exploration as a coordinated multilevel governance process linking executive cognition, board oversight, and managerial capabilities. It extends understanding of how governance mechanisms and dynamic managerial capabilities jointly transform strategic exploration into business model innovation, offering a more integrated explanation of adaptive innovation under conditions of environmental uncertainty and technological disruption.
Abstract Purpose The article investigates how young adults in Poland (aged 18–30) adjust their self-presentation on social media in response to cybervetting. It compares two strategies—preventive profile privacy settings and reactive self-censorship—across professional and general platforms. It also explores whether the amount of time spent online correlates with the intensity of these actions. Design/methodology/approach An online survey (conducted March–April 2025) was completed by 126 respondents. Ordinal scales measured the level of profile privacy and frequency of self-censorship. Due to significant deviations from normal distribution, the Mann–Whitney U test was used. The relationship between time spent online and strategies was assessed using Spearman’s correlation. Findings Users of professional platforms reported stricter privacy settings; self-censorship did not differ. Time spent online was not related to self-censorship but was slightly negatively correlated with privacy settings. Research limitations/implications. Self-reported measures, simplified platform classification, non-random sampling, and lack of demographic subgroup analysis limit generalizability. Originality/value This is one of the first studies in Poland to compare preventive and reactive strategies toward cybervetting across platform types, combining impression management and context collapse theories. It shows that platform type, versus time online, drives privacy choices.
Abstract Purpose The Industrial Revolution 4.0 and technological development have resulted in a digital transformation. This research aims to build a theoretical model for digital pedagogies and quality management of HEIs with reference to a Finnish university. Methodology The qualitative research explored the question: ‘What factors build the theoretical model of digital pedagogies and quality management of HEIs?’ The study was conducted at Laurea University in Helsinki as a single case study. Data collection included document analysis, classroom observations and semi-structured interviews. This provided a multidimensional picture of the changes stemming from digital transformation in learning and quality management. Findings The results section discusses the empirical outcomes, supported by direct quotes from interviewees and structured codifications, and a proposition of model dynamics. The study produced a theoretical model of digital pedagogy and quality management in practice-orientated HEIs, consisting of four interrelated nodes: Digital Learning Foundation – the pedagogical and technological basis; Enabling Factors – digital flexibility and learning support facilitating implementation; Institutional Quality Control – ensuring standards through frameworks such as DigCompEdu; and Challenges – pedagogical, technical and economic barriers. Originality/value The article presents a new perspective on digital technologies in HEIs. The results offer understanding of how digital pedagogy supports the teaching process and becomes a key element of quality management strategy. The authors provide insights to university authorities, educators and policymakers into how digital transformation affects digital pedagogies and quality management in HEIs.
Abstract Purpose This article develops a theoretical framework explaining how artificial intelligence (AI), gamification, and behavioral psychology converge to construct adaptive reinforcement architectures in digital marketing environments. It conceptualises AI as a structural habit architect embedded within gamified engagement systems. Design/methodology/approach The study employs an integrative literature review (ILR) to synthesise interdisciplinary research across behavioral psychology, marketing, human–computer interaction, and AI ethics. By integrating conditioning theory, motivational frameworks, gamification design principles, and reinforcement learning logic, the analysis develops a layered conceptual model of adaptive engagement. Findings The proposed adaptive reinforcement architecture consists of three interdependent layers: behavioral foundations, gamification interface structures, and algorithmic adaptation mechanisms. Their interaction generates recursive processes of motivational alignment, reinforcement calibration, and feedback modulation, enabling AI-driven systems to dynamically shape engagement trajectories and behavioral persistence. Practical implications The framework provides a system-level lens for designing adaptive marketing environments that balance engagement optimization with user autonomy. It offers conceptual guidance for managers and designers developing AI-enhanced gamified systems across sectors. Social implications By embedding ethical inflection points within the reinforcement architecture itself, the study highlights structural risks associated with behavioral overreach and algorithmic persuasion. It underscores the importance of transparency, proportionality, and contestability in adaptive optimization systems. Originality/value The article advances digital marketing theory by integrating previously fragmented research streams into a theoretically bounded model of adaptive reinforcement. Beyond governance-level discussions of AI ethics, the framework specifies how ethical exposure emerges within reinforcement calibration processes, thereby providing a foundation for empirical operationalization and structural evaluation.
Abstract Purpose This study explores the influence of paradoxical leadership (PXL) on employee innovative performance (EIP), highlighting the increasing demand for innovation in the information and communication technology (ICT) sector, which is characterized by paradoxes. Grounded in paradox theory, the framework posits that job crafting (JC) serves as a mediator, illustrating how employees proactively reshape their roles in response to PXL dynamics, thereby enhancing EIP. Additionally, the study investigates the moderating role of job autonomy (JA), examining how it strengthens two relationships: (1) the effect of PXL on JC, and (2) the effect of JC on EIP. Data were collected from 326 employees working in ICT firms across four major cities in Pakistan, given the inherent contradictions in their demands. Validated instruments were employed to assess the constructs, and data analysis was conducted using PLS-SEM in RStudio, with the PLSPM and SEMINR packages. The results indicate that JC mediates the positive impact of PXL on EIP. In addition, this relationship is high when job autonomy (JA) moderates the relationship between PXL and JC. The study offers potential insights into the theoretical and managerial implications for the ICT sector.
Abstract Purpose Innovation management in the tourism industry over the past two decades has focused on the concept of open innovation. The dynamic nature of this sector, combined with the need for collaboration based on the sharing of specialized knowledge among various stakeholders, makes the effective implementation of innovative practices challenging. The aim of this study is to identify research contributions, findings, and the intellectual structure of studies on open innovation in the field of tourism. A particular focus is placed on examining the connection between the concept of open innovation and the functioning of tourism enterprises. Design/methodology/approach To achieve this, a bibliometric analysis of scientific publications available in the Scopus database was conducted, employing both a holistic approach—emphasizing collaboration, knowledge sharing, and innovation development in tourism—and a narrow approach—strictly analyzing studies explicitly addressing open innovation in this domain. Findings The results of the bibliometric analysis indicated a significant increase in the intensity of research on open innovation in tourism in a broader perspective (referring to collaboration, knowledge sharing, and network co-creation), while at the same time revealing that the area of open innovation strategies at the level of tourism enterprises remains an open field for further research. Originality/value The analyses allowed for the identification of dominant clusters of research areas, referencing key attributes of open innovation and highlighting potential future research directions.
Abstract Purpose This article examines pro-environmental behaviours among hotel suppliers in Poland, focusing on their relationship with organisational factors. The study was motivated by the increasing importance of sustainability in the hotel sector and limited empirical knowledge about suppliers' environmental practices. Its aim is to identify the most common pro-environmental behaviours among hotel suppliers and assess how company size, legal form, capital origin, degree of integration, and years of operation influence these behaviours. Design/methodology/approach A sequential exploratory mixed-methods approach was applied. Qualitative research (literature review, interviews, and observation) supported the identification of key behaviours and organisational factors. This was followed by a quantitative survey of 85 suppliers cooperating with six hotels located in major Polish cities. Statistical analyses included descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests. Findings The most frequently reported pro-environmental behaviours were related to energy and water conservation, as well as waste management; behaviours related to transport and environmental education were less common. Higher levels of pro-environmental behaviours were observed among medium and large enterprises, companies with corporate legal form, suppliers financed by foreign or mixed capital, and those with a longer history of market presence. Practical implications The findings highlight the need to promote pro-environmental behaviours among suppliers, improve supplier evaluation processes, and support smaller-scale suppliers that operate locally. Social implications Strengthening pro-environmental behaviours in hotel supply chains may contribute to improved environmental performance, increased environmental awareness, and more sustainable development in the hospitality sector. Originality/value The study addresses a research gap by focusing on hotel suppliers (a relatively underexplored group), and provides empirical insights into organisational factors associated with pro-environmental behaviours.
Abstract Purpose Intellectual property is an important component that builds an organization’s value and future productivity. The generation of goods protected by intellectual property, especially by copyrights, characterizes the cultural sector’s activity. Despite the significance of intellectual property rights in museum management, there remains a need for further systematization and analysis of the latest trends and practices implemented in cultural institutions. The article scrutinizes the relationship of intellectual property, general management, and the cultural sector – especially in museums. Methodology I based my study on the methodology of systematic literature review to determine the current state of knowledge, the main thematic fields discussed, and the existing research gaps regarding intellectual property management in museums. Findings The preliminary findings indicate that the knowledge on intellectual property management needs to be deepened and systematized. Scholars analyze this topic within three fields: 1) intellectual property as a museum’s valuable asset; 2) intellectual property management as a process composed of functions; and 3) the museum as a cultural organization dealing with intellectual property rights. Originality/value Intellectual property management in museums still requires systematization and thorough analysis. The topic is important because appropriate management of rights allows an institution to collaborate with its environment and stabilize its own operation effectively.
Abstract Purpose The study aims to estimate the influence of CSR (environmental and social dimensions) on customer value (quality, price, emotional, social, and reputation dimensions) and customer loyalty in the hotel industry in Poland and China. Design/methodology/approach Data was gathered from respondents in Poland (n = 560) and China (n = 560) who spent holidays in hotels with a CSR orientation. The study employs PLS-SEM. Findings The study results show that CSR has a positive influence on both customer value and loyalty. The mediating effect of customer value between CSR and customer loyalty is observed. Furthermore, we find that CSR’s effect on customer value is greater for Polish hotel guests than for Chinese hotel guests. In contrast, the influence of customer value on loyalty is greater for Chinese hotel guests than for Polish hotel guests. Practical implications Based on our study findings, we suggest that hotel managers can design CSR strategies that effectively address the needs of customers from different countries. The study suggests that while CSR influences customer value and loyalty, its effects vary by country, underscoring the importance of tailored CSR practices to enhance customer loyalty. Social implications This research highlights the role of CSR in promoting sustainable practices and building customer loyalty in the hotel industry. Examining customers from two different countries underscores how CSR can bring positive social change and community well-being. Originality The study contributes to the body of knowledge on CSR’s role in the hotel industry from a customer value perspective across countries and provides useful insights into how CSR is perceived in different contexts.
Abstract Purpose This exploratory study aims to assess the dynamic development of gender and corporate governance themes in academic publishing over the last three decades. It identifies and depicts key stages and trends of this research evolution, by including publication and citation structure, leading research priorities and trends, major themes, transformations, and/or discontinuities. Design/methodology/approach This study scientifically reviews 984 academic papers extracted from the Scopus database, published from 1995 to 2023, based on PRISMA. The methodology of the analysis performed employs the SciMAT software. Findings The findings reveal several promising sub-fields that warrant further systematic literature reviews. In particular, they highlight a rich and expanding body of research examining how the inclusion of women in corporate governance influences both financial and non-financial corporate performance, as well as monitoring and control functions, and, ultimately, overall corporate governance effectiveness. However, the results also indicate a clear thematic separation between corporate governance and business ethics, with the latter historically tending to undervalue gender inclusiveness. Moreover, the complex interplay between internal, resource-based factors and external, institutional factors shaping gender dynamics in corporate governance emerges as an important area for systematic investigation. Originality/value This study utilizes SciMAT software for longitudinal scientific mapping analysis, presenting an innovative update to research on gender-related and corporate governance topics. Accordingly, it overcomes the limitations of previous systematic literature reviews in the field.
The aim of this article is to assess the measures introduced in leading coastal destinations in Southern Europe in response to the growing dissatisfaction of local communities related to overtourism caused by cruise shipping companies and propose possible solutions to this problem. The research conducted for this article is qualitative in nature. The methodology of the research is based on the framework developed by E. Bell et. al. (2019). The research process consisted of eight stages. The analysis showed that local authorities take the problem of overtourism seriously and undertake a number of measures to minimize the negative effects of overtourism. Local authorities initiated cooperation with cruise port authorities, leading to agreements aimed at reducing the number of cruise vessels handled simultaneously. The findings contribute valuable knowledge to the field of sustainable tourism and destination governance, offering practical guidance for regions grappling with similar challenges. These findings could guide other coastal regions facing similar challenges, as careful analysis may reveal effective strategies to mitigate adverse impacts and ensure a fairer distribution of benefits among residents and show that preserving cultural heritage and protecting the environment remain essential for sustaining the long-term appeal of these valuable tourist hotspots. This study provides original insights by focusing specifically on the impacts of cruise tourism in coastal destinations. This paper examines targeted, local policy responses and the interplay between municipal authorities, port administrations, and local communities. The research offers a deeper understanding of the socio-political processes that drive decision-making.
Abstract Purpose The study presents an innovative approach to the acceptance of sustainability communication conducted by tourism enterprises. It provides a detailed understanding of audience perception and the factors influencing their reception of sustainability messages. Design/methodology/approach A set of 402 structured questionnaires, each consisting of 40 respondent-answered questions, was used in the research. To investigate the proposed relationships, the study applied the PLS-SEM method. The model used nine constructs from well-established theoretical frameworks on technology acceptance and purchase intentions related to eco-friendly products. Findings The results of the study show satisfaction as a major determinant when choosing a vacation destination. The relationship existing for service quality and satisfaction is particularly significant, as is the effect of trust on quality perception. Engaging guests in sustainability-related activities—by showing which activities are beneficial—can positively affect their perceptions of service quality. Empathy also enhances trust, indicating that guests who feel at ease with their hosts and better grasp their circumstances are more trusting of the solutions provided to them. The sense of moral obligation, attitude, offer, and quality of services influence the preferred form of sustainable development communication. Originality/value Understanding how individuals accept sustainability communication is essential for communication and marketing design. This framework explains the factors contributing to the positive reception of sustainability messages and the adoption of offerings from businesses implementing sustainable development strategies.
This study aims to explore the phases of the coopetition life cycle (CLC), identify the perceived importance of characteristics attributable to coopetition in those phases, and recognize if the perception of the identified importance of considered characteristics changes across the phases of the CLC. The explorative research was conducted within the manufacturing companies operating in Poland. A comprehensive survey was conducted on a large scale, involving 1231 firms. The coopetition characteristics - 2 strategic, 6 relational, and 5 behavioral - were operationalized using scales already available in the literature whereas to operationalize the specific phases of the CLC (i.e., initiation, development, maintenance, evaluation, continuation, dormancy, termination, and reactivation) and two focus group interviews were conducted. Data analysis was implemented using descriptives and non-parametric ANOVA tests. The research findings showed which phase of CLC predominates in practice, i.e., the maintenance phase. Furthermore, the study revealed that all considered characteristics are meaningful throughout nearly all phases of the CLC. However, there were slight variations in the perceived significance of coopetition characteristics among managers representing both low-tech and high-tech firms. It is the first research on CLC therefore as a contribution it offers the framework for the CLC, results regarding the phases in which coopetition is the most frequently utilized by manufacturing companies as well as the results showing the perceived relevance of a wide range of coopetition characteristics across particular phases of the CLC.
This paper elaborates on the potential of integrating thinking and the challenges of Integrated Reporting (IR) in SMEs. Based on the piloting-phase results of the INTEREST project, we present the lessons learned from participants' experiences. The primary data for the research study was collected using a questionnaire. We use single-country evidence and apply the dialectical constructivist approach. Integrated thinking is still in its infancy in SMEs; thus, IR is not a common reporting practice. Our evidence suggests that data collection and materiality assessment were the most challenging tasks in developing integrated reports. The data obtained in SMEs contains gaps due to simplified record-keeping and reporting, causing problems in accessing relevant information, especially that of a non-financial nature, needed in integrated reporting. IR implementation often requires changes in ways of thinking around business. Dialectical constructivism highlights the contextual nature of knowledge construction and prepares the participants of the IR process to adjust their newly-acquired knowledge to fit the conditions of specific SMEs. Critical thinking and reflection led the project participants to question the underlying assumptions of IR materials and encouraged them to express their opinions about the piloting process. Addressing sustainability challenges through the adoption of IR by SMEs thus delivers shared value on both societal and environmental levels. The study provides real-world, practice-based insights into the process of creating integrated reports in SMEs. We used the original educational materials, methods, and tools developed within the INTEREST project to train the participants.
The ideas of organizational hauntology and organizational ghosts serve as the epistemological background of this article, in which the phenomenon of monuments erected by enterprises garners our attention. In this study, the following research question has been addressed: What connects monuments to enterprises and organizational ghosts, and in what manner do these ghosts come into play via these monuments and capture the attention of the surrounding community and their milieu? In order to receive an answer, the research material that has been collected here refers to four monuments built by Polish enterprises. It includes desk research about the monuments and primary data from the interviews and field research conducted in the places where these monuments are located. The material gathered has been thoroughly analyzed using six interpretative categories: recollection of ghosts in tales; creation of myths about these ghosts; creation and distribution of symbols; creation of literary and artistic works; attention to and care for monuments; and pilgrimages to the places where the monuments have been erected.
The rapid development of artificial intelligence requires public administration to constantly adapt to new technologies, while also raising a number of challenges related to ethics, data security, and the reconstruction of existing processes. The aim of this article is to comprehensively analyze the phenomenon of increasing automation of administrative processes, referred to as “robocracy.” This study focuses on the bipolar perception of this phenomenon: On the one hand, its role in increasing the efficiency of public administration, reducing human errors, and accelerating the provision of services is emphasized. On the other hand, attention is drawn to potential negative consequences, such as the dehumanization of the relationship between citizens and administration, loss of flexibility in decision-making, and an increased risk of social exclusion of people less familiar with new technologies.
This article analyses and synthesises the literature linking human resource (HR) differentiation and labor market segmentation (LMS) to create a framework for further research in this area. Building on a database-driven approach with additional backward and forward analysis, the study conducted a systematic literature review of 23 articles. Two new properties of HR differentiation were identified: distribution shape and central tendency. Moreover, two groups of properties were distinguished: properties describing the process and those representing the outcomes of HR differentiation. In addition, by detailing the three components of HR differentiation dynamics (stability of employment segments, internal boundaries, and self-fulfilling prophecy), the analysis provided a deep understanding of the process by which employment segments emerge from HR differentiation. Finally, based on the review, a model was developed that captures the processes of mutual reinforcement between the intra-organizational and market segments of employment. The review helps to structure the research field of HR differentiation by providing an extended catalogue of its properties, clarifying the role of external and internal factors, and describing its dynamics. The analysis also provides a starting point for further research linking HR differentiation and LMS.
Modern times, which are often characterized as volatile and unpredictable, are prompting companies to use agile working methods. Agility is described as an answer to the challenges faced by today’s organizations, as it offers the opportunity to respond almost instantly to customer demand and minimize waste. One of the elements supporting employees performing professional tasks under agile working conditions is a favorable organizational culture. Creating the right working conditions for employees, in line with their preferences, can contribute to their well-being and productivity, and thus to the success of the entire enterprise. The purpose of this article is to identify and present the preferences of employees performing their professional tasks under agile working conditions in the area of organizational culture dimensions (in accordance with the typology of K. Cameron and R. Quinn). This article presents the results of an empirical study conducted among employees of IT companies that are part of the ICT cluster of Central Poland. This article is empirical in nature. The survey was conducted in January–March 2022 in 8 ICT enterprises that are part of the ICT cluster of Central Poland. All enterprises participating in the survey were large enterprises. The survey included 249 members of agile teams performing their professional tasks under agile working conditions. The survey was conducted using a proprietary research questionnaire. The results of this study showed that according to members of agile task forces, the preferred type of organizational culture is the market type, according to K. Cameron and R. Quinn’s typology. These employees prefer it when stability and control prevail in the organization, and they are required to comply with numerous formal rules and regulations. They prefer work characterized by immutability, orderliness, stability, and increased control. The success of an organization is measured in terms of market share and penetration, competitive pricing and being a leader, and as a result, the organization is mainly oriented to its position in the environment and differentiation. This article is an original and valuable resource for both those with real influence on the functioning of employees in agile work environments and members of agile teams, making an important contribution to the field of research on the functioning of employees in agile work environments in the context of their preferred organizational culture solutions.
The aim of this paper is to present and understand the challenges of conducting qualitative research from the perspective of novice researchers preparing their PhD thesis at the university. This paper shows the findings of qualitative study conducted with assistant professors and doctoral students at one of the Polish economic universities. The research was conducted in two stages – the first was a focus group interview (FGI) and the second consisted of individual in-depth interviews (IDIs) altogether with 11 novice researchers. All interviews were recorded, transcribed, and coded using a deductive-inductive approach. The challenges identified include, among others, the lack of theoretical and practical knowledge of how to meet the criteria of methodological rigor; problems with synthesizing, selecting and structuring the collected material; the issue of ensuring consistency of the story told with adherence to methodological rigor; ethical or reflexivity dilemmas. All this is accompanied by a number of twists and turns, combined with a lack of experience and constraints on resources. Findings will allow for actions to be taken that may help novice researchers, their supervisors, and people deciding on doctoral school programs to overcome barriers of preparing thesis using qualitative research. Showing the challenges and ways to overcome them in relation to different stages of the qualitative research process additionally strengthens practical implications. So far, there has been a lack of papers showing the challenges in conducting qualitative research by novice economics and management researchers. This paper fills this gap.
