Collins Ameyaw, Sarfo Mensah, Blondel Akun Abaitey and Anita Asamoah-Duodu
The practice of the defects liability period (DLP) is a risk management strategy meant to secure durable and high-quality works. However, construction products continue to…
Abstract
Purpose
The practice of the defects liability period (DLP) is a risk management strategy meant to secure durable and high-quality works. However, construction products continue to malfunction even after the expiration of DLPs. This study seeks to determine the adequacy of DLPs existing in the construction industry and propose appropriate DLPs for construction projects in the Ghanaian construction industry.
Design/methodology/approach
Applying quantitative research strategy, 124 questionnaires were retrieved from construction professionals surveyed. The data obtained were analysed using descriptive statistics, Cramer’s V and the significance test with the aid of Stata software.
Findings
It was found that defects start showing in both buildings and roads within 12 months after being handed over for the client’s use. The significance test and Cramer’s V analysis indicate low concordance amongst respondents that the 6–12 month DLPs existing in Ghana are adequate. It is found that the existing DLP practice does not provide sufficient security to clients.
Practical implications
Construction project clients will need to include the tenderer’s proposed DLP as part of the tender evaluation criteria with the objective of picking up a signal of the quality of work to be delivered.
Originality/value
This paper is one of the pioneering studies addressing the issue of the adequacy of DLPs in the construction industry in the Sub-Saharan Africa region. The findings trigger policy and regulatory changes in conditions guiding construction contracts procured in most developing countries that have adopted and adapted to the World Bank Public Procurement Guidelines.
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This paper aims to investigate the process and business model innovations within the ultra-fast business model (UFBM) that have potential sustainable applications.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the process and business model innovations within the ultra-fast business model (UFBM) that have potential sustainable applications.
Design/methodology/approach
An exploratory multiple case study research method was used, emphasizing on an integrative literature review and focusing on two successful Chinese-origin companies that have revolutionized the e-commerce market: Shein and Temu.
Findings
Although the UFBM adopted by these companies remains highly controversial and is commonly associated with harmful business practices and lack of business responsibility, both have managed to develop process and business model innovations that may interest sustainability-driven organizations. They have implemented their unique versions of the customer-to-manufacturer (C2M) production system, which reduces costs and facilitates information exchanges between customers and manufacturers, thereby achieving a better product-market fit. Further still, they have redefined the shopping experience through their interpretations of collaborative consumption, as manifested in live and social commerce, gamification and group buying formats.
Originality/value
Instead of dismissing the UFBM due to its negative environmental and societal impacts, the study concentrates on process and business model innovations that have a potential for sustainability. That does not mean praising the business model as a whole, but instead indicating its potentially interesting aspects that could serve as inspirations for managers and business leaders who are concerned with sustainability. Learning from others' experiences is a recognized business practice, and in this case, could be particularly beneficial for companies with limited resources or opportunities for experimentation.
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Shilpa Kokatnur, Hengky Latan, Rambabu Lavuri and Charbel Jose Chiappetta Jabbour
This research investigates the effect of green initiatives on sustainable luxury brand purchasing intentions, employing sustainable involvement and attitude as mediators and brand…
Abstract
Purpose
This research investigates the effect of green initiatives on sustainable luxury brand purchasing intentions, employing sustainable involvement and attitude as mediators and brand experience as a moderator; the stimulus-organism-behavior-consequence model is utilized to understand this phenomenon comprehensively.
Design/methodology/approach
We collected 503 survey responses from individuals who had bought sustainable luxury products via purposive sampling. Subsequently, we employed structural equation modeling and the PROCESS macro to analyze the data collected.
Findings
The results revealed that (1) green initiatives had a positive influence on sustainable involvement, attitude and sustainable purchasing intention; additionally, (2) sustainable involvement and attitude had a positive mediation relationship between the green initiatives and attitude, sustainable purchasing intention; likewise, attitude had a positive mediation relationship among them; (3) sustainable purchasing intention substantially affects customer word of mouth and satisfaction and (4) brand experience significantly moderates the association between sustainable purchasing intention, word-of-mouth and satisfaction.
Originality/value
The current study investigates consumer sustainable behavior, with the rising importance of sustainable luxury products and increasing consumer awareness of sustainability. Notably, this study introduces a fresh application of the stimulus-organism-behavior-consequences (SOBC) framework, marking a groundbreaking approach in sustainable luxury brand research.
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Prashant Sharma and Anita Sengar
The primary aim of this study is to analyze the evolution and future trajectories of renewable energy research from 2000–2023. By examining publication volumes, citation patterns…
Abstract
Purpose
The primary aim of this study is to analyze the evolution and future trajectories of renewable energy research from 2000–2023. By examining publication volumes, citation patterns, geographical and institutional landscapes, and identifying key authors and publications, the study seeks to provide a detailed overview of the developmental trajectory of renewable energy research. It aims to serve as a crucial reference for researchers, policymakers and stakeholders in the energy sector, offering insights that can guide future research directions and policy decisions.
Design/methodology/approach
This study uses a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of renewable energy literature spanning from 2000 to 2023, using the Scopus database. Advanced tools such as the visualization of similarities viewer were used for in-depth exploration of influential papers, authors, keyword clusters and thematic connections through hierarchical cluster analysis. The study targeted various publications specifically mentioning “renewable energy” and “renewable energies” in their titles, examining publication trends, research areas, geographic origins, institutional affiliations, funding patterns, journal contributions and citation impacts.
Findings
The analysis reveals robust growth in renewable energy research, with a significant increase in publications over the last two decades. Key contributing countries include the USA, China, the UK, Germany and Spain, demonstrating strong international collaboration. High citation counts and influential journals such as Energy Policy and Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews underscore the significance of the research. However, a notable gap in the literature concerning the branding and marketing of alternative fuels was identified, highlighting the need for future research in strategic marketing and consumer engagement aspects of renewable energies.
Research limitations/implications
The study is limited by its reliance on the Scopus database, which may not capture all relevant publications, and the predominance of English-language documents, potentially introducing language bias. The quantitative focus of bibliometric methods may overlook qualitative aspects of research contributions. Future studies should incorporate diverse databases, languages and qualitative analyses to fully capture the global and multifaceted nature of renewable energy research, addressing these limitations and providing a more comprehensive understanding.
Practical implications
The insights from this study can inform policymakers and stakeholders about the key trends, influential entities and emerging directions within renewable energy research. Understanding the predominant research themes and influential journals can aid in strategic decision-making and resource allocation. The identification of gaps in the literature, such as the branding and marketing of alternative fuels, can guide future research and policy efforts to enhance public acceptance and broader adoption of renewable energy technologies.
Social implications
The study highlights global collaboration and communication in renewable energy research, facilitated by the predominance of English as a lingua franca. This international cooperation is crucial for the integration of innovative ideas and solutions across different regions. Addressing the identified gap in consumer engagement and strategic marketing can improve public perception and acceptance of renewable energy technologies, ultimately contributing to the global transition to sustainable energy sources and mitigating climate change impacts.
Originality/value
This study offers a unique and comprehensive bibliometric analysis of renewable energy research, providing valuable insights into publication trends, key contributors and thematic connections over the past two decades. By identifying gaps in the literature and suggesting directions for future research, the study adds significant value to the field. It serves as a crucial reference point for researchers, policymakers and stakeholders, enhancing their understanding of the evolution and future trajectories of renewable energy research.
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Interest in environmental, social and governance (ESG) controversies is acquiring great relevance in the business and academic communities. Nonetheless, previous studies in the…
Abstract
Purpose
Interest in environmental, social and governance (ESG) controversies is acquiring great relevance in the business and academic communities. Nonetheless, previous studies in the area have devoted little attention to how the market views ESG controversies. Against this backdrop, this paper aims to investigate whether ESG controversies are value-relevant to investors, as reflected in equity values. It also investigates whether top management team (TMT) gender diversity is likely to affect the association between ESG controversies and equity market values in the context of high-tech firms.
Design/methodology/approach
This paper uses a sample of high-tech firms listed on the STOXX 600 index during the period 2006–2022. The ESG data for the sample is retrieved from the Refinitiv Eikon database. This paper adopts a fixed-effect panel regression to test the hypotheses.
Findings
Based on the Ohlson’s (1995) valuation framework, the authors find evidence that ESG controversies are associated with a lower market valuation, suggesting that shareholders perceive ESG controversies as conveying negative information about future performance. The authors also find evidence that TMT gender diversity negatively moderates the relationship between ESG controversies and equity values, indicating that TMT gender diversity alleviates the detrimental effect of corporate controversies. These results remain consistent when using the return model of Easton and Harris (1991).
Originality/value
This paper throws more light on the economic consequences of ESG controversies in European high-tech firms. This is particularly important due to the increasing importance of ESG criteria in guiding investment choices. This paper also adds to the current literature by providing new evidence that the value-relevance of ESG controversies is affected by TMT gender diversity.
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Sougata Banerjee and Rajasekhar David
Environmental, social and governance (ESG) is becoming an increasingly important non-financial parameter for measuring a company’s valuation. The purpose of this study is to…
Abstract
Purpose
Environmental, social and governance (ESG) is becoming an increasingly important non-financial parameter for measuring a company’s valuation. The purpose of this study is to assess the relevance of ESG in Indian investors’ decision-making dynamics.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used an exploratory qualitative research approach based on semi-structured in-depth interviews. A mixed method of purposeful and criterion sampling techniques was used to select 21 participants. Thematic content analysis was performed to analyze the data and understand the relevance of ESG in investors’ decision-making process.
Findings
This study finds that while Indian investors are aware of ESG factors, they prioritize traditional financial metrics like returns and risk over ESG considerations. ESG factors are often treated as secondary, hindered by the lack of standardization in data and ratings, making them difficult to quantify and compare. Additionally, concerns about greenwashing and unreliable ESG information further reduce their importance in investment decisions. The findings of this study highlight the need for reliable ESG data, standardization and increased investor education for better integration.
Research limitations/implications
This is an exploratory study with limited participants. Therefore, the results cannot be generalized to the Indian population. Different sampling criteria, a larger sample size or a quantitative research design approach may increase our understanding of the relevance of ESG.
Practical implications
This study provides insights into the awareness, relative importance and challenges of including ESG in investment decision-making. The results suggest further standardization and improving the awareness and trustworthiness of ESG reporting will help improve its relevance.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of its kind to investigate the awareness, perception and attitudes of Indian investors toward ESG. This study addresses an identified gap in the existing literature, explores the awareness level of ESG among Indian investors and suggests future research directions.
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Ghifari Yuristiadhi Masyhari Makhasi
This study aims to analyze the extent to which the walking tour in virtual version appeals to the younger generation and still provides lessons about cultural acculturation that…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to analyze the extent to which the walking tour in virtual version appeals to the younger generation and still provides lessons about cultural acculturation that can inspire citizenship today compared to an actual walking tour.
Design/methodology/approach
This quasi-experimental design uses pre-test and post-test with structured interviews for data collection from five purposive participants who related the experience and storytelling that they experienced from the tours.
Findings
This study finds while virtual tours cannot replace physical walking tours because of real multisensory experiences, storytelling and guiding interpretation through virtual tours is more likeable than walking tours Due to some potential disturbance in the field. However, the guiding interpretation related to the message of multiculturalism still reaches tourists both through actual and virtual tours.
Research limitations/implications
This study has limitations regarding the number of participants. A larger number of participants may provide greater objectivity. In addition, regarding the quasi-experimental method used, it is possible to have different results if the actual walking tour precedes the virtual tour, and this can be a broad discussion space for future researchers.
Social implications
Practically, this walking tour is expected to be a model for civic education, especially in Indonesia, which is delivered in a fun way through a walking tour.
Originality/value
This study offers a novelty regarding the development of a walking tour based on citizenship education, which can be seen from its impact on the younger generation when it is held virtually or actually.
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Shanza Maryam Khan and Shahzad Akhtar
The study investigates the impact of competition and concentration on bank risk-taking behavior and stability in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC…
Abstract
Purpose
The study investigates the impact of competition and concentration on bank risk-taking behavior and stability in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) region.
Design/methodology/approach
Data from 100 banks from 2013 to 2021 was analyzed using dynamic and static measures by using dynamic system GMM.
Findings
Results showed that higher competition reduces stability, while concentration in the banking sector produces stability and reduces risk-taking behavior. The findings suggest that regulatory agencies should take different actions based on the degree of banking market concentration to enhance banking sector stability in the SAARC area.
Practical implications
The research helps regulators and decision-makers establish capital requirements at levels that would prevent banks from increasing their risk-taking in order to boost profits and, therefore, reduces hazardous practices that might increase the risk.
Originality/value
The research helps establish capital requirements to prevent banks from increasing risk-taking to boost profits and avoid hazardous practices that could increase nonperforming loans and bank failure risks.
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Matthew Phillip Johnson, Jakob Strobel and Gregory Trencher
To achieve net-zero by mid-century consistent with the Paris Agreement, companies must urgently formulate and implement decarbonization actions. While previous research has…
Abstract
Purpose
To achieve net-zero by mid-century consistent with the Paris Agreement, companies must urgently formulate and implement decarbonization actions. While previous research has categorized numerous carbon management and carbon accounting actions, these domains have often been studied in isolation. We classify carbon management actions into four categories (inaction, ineffective, supportive and effective) and connect them to carbon accounting actions in a subsequent step, revealing four archetypical patterns of corporate decarbonization responses. The primary aim of this empirical study is to comprehensively assess how companies implement carbon management and carbon accounting actions in parallel and build an understanding of the various factors affecting each other, and how these domains affect carbon performance altogether.
Design/methodology/approach
This study adopted a maximum diverse sampling approach to assess carbon management actions in 22 international companies and link them to carbon accounting actions. Data sources included interviews with sustainability managers, field notes from a joint meeting and sustainability reports. The heterogeneous sample aimed for maximum diversity, covering various sectors and headquarters locations, yet all companies have communicated a commitment to reducing carbon emissions. A qualitative content analysis was used to find connections between carbon management actions and carbon accounting actions, resulting in four archetypical patterns.
Findings
The study identifies a range of carbon management actions, from inaction to effective action, and corresponding carbon accounting actions for monitoring, disclosure, and internal information use. Effective carbon management actions correlate with comprehensive carbon accounting actions, while ineffective management shows limited use of these actions. Based on these findings, we examine links between carbon management and carbon accounting and identify four archetypical patterns of corporate decarbonization responses.
Originality/value
This study examines the interconnectedness of carbon management and carbon accounting, identifying archetypical patterns that explain their effectiveness in reducing corporate carbon emissions. It provides a framework for analyzing companies’ carbon management and highlights the essential role of carbon accounting in monitoring, disclosing and internal data use. Said framework and conclusions can guide future research and management.
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Zakky Zamrudi, Margono Setiawan, Dodi Wirawan Irawanto and Mintarti Rahayu
This study aims to seek to understand counterproductive knowledge behaviour (CKB) in higher education institutions (HEIs) by integrating knowledge hiding (KHi) and lack of…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to seek to understand counterproductive knowledge behaviour (CKB) in higher education institutions (HEIs) by integrating knowledge hiding (KHi) and lack of knowledge sharing (LKS).
Design/methodology/approach
The current research uses a hybrid conceptual review combining the bibliometric study and conceptual review of 47 articles. The bibliometric analysis aimed to identify research maps, and the conceptual review sought to understand the current development of research fields.
Findings
The bibliometric analysis highlights essential summaries, such as the pioneering authors, seminal papers and conceptual maps. However, knowledge hoarding as a dimension of LKS appears in the niche theme. The conceptual analysis indicates three groups of factors contributing to KHi and LKS. Moreover, the study highlights the causal relation between both KHi as well as LKS and faculty member performance while proposing remedies derived from integrating the social exchange theory (SET) and conservation of resource (COR) theory.
Research limitations/implications
The present study provides an integrated image of KHi and LKS in the HEI context, as well as its potential remedies by integrating SET and COR. The basis of this study is a literature review; thus, future studies are recommended to empirically explore the integration of KHi and LKS within the HEI context.
Practical implications
This research provides an overview for HEI policymakers to re-examine the critical role of institutional research as one of the considerations for evaluating and developing policies. Specifically, policymakers can reflect on all policy directions to determine whether there are any symptoms of CKB in the institutions. Moreover, stakeholders can find out the reason behind the non-optimal performance of faculty members regarding CKB and any mitigating factors.
Originality/value
Understanding CKB is crucial in managing HEI. This research provides a comprehensive image of KHi and LKS within HEI, especially in a collectivist culture.