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The purpose of this paper is to examine how the practices, processes and expertise embedded within Social Impact Bonds (SIBs) distinctively mediate the tensions between outcome payers’ competing and contradictory programmatic discourses.

We use qualitative research methods and employ concepts drawn from the governmentality literature to analyse interviews with SIB outcome payers.

SIBs are shown to challenge the degree of negative influence of biopolitics, neoliberalism and financialization by highlighting a broader and more holistic set of influences. SIB operations pre-empt and counteract perceived risks and are refined through a “learning by doing” effect. In contrast to other approaches to funding social interventions, the SIB structure attributes and independently validates outcomes. Payments to investors are based on the achievement of outcomes and are funded by the outcome payers. SIBs’ operational processes allow the responsibilities of the various parties to be explicitly assigned and contracted. The interests are aligned, yet the cultural differences harnessed.

This paper is one of the first to apply governmentality concepts to SIBs. By focusing on outcome payers, the paper provides new perspectives on the practices, processes and expertise of governing and the programmatic discourses of governing, as well as their relationship. The insights offered are supported by one of the largest and most diverse empirical SIB samples including 34 interviews where 43 individuals reflect on their experiences across 32 unique outcome payer organisations.

This study aimed at rethinking ways in which educators from different fields can collaborate to respond to the rapidly evolving demands of health professions education (HPE). The goal was to investigate how a research-to-resources approach can be applied to engage in knowledge translation (KT) of research findings for the benefit of introducing medical students to uncertainty in the clinical learning environment.

An interdisciplinary team of medical educators, human resource development (HRD) scholars and emergency medicine fellows engaged in iterative cycles of action research (AR) to develop, pilot and refine case-based learning resources on clinical uncertainty. The team leveraged prior research on physicians’ decision-making during COVID-19, experimented with generative AI tools, and collected feedback from medical students to guide resource development.

The findings of this study are twofold. On the one hand, the authors reflect on the lessons learned of developing case-based learning with the help of generative AI. While student feedback indicated that the case helped normalize and process experiences with uncertainty, key challenges included adapting research data to create relevant, sustainable learning resources and designing effective discussion prompts. On the other hand, the authors provide insights into the opportunities and challenges of our interdisciplinary collaboration. The authors show that knowledge utilization is not simple, but complex, and that more work needs to be done to effectively disseminate resources as part of the desired uncertainty curriculum.

This study attempts to apply a KT framework for bridging the research-practice gap in HPE through interdisciplinary collaboration and AR. It provides lessons learned for developing case-based curricula on complex topics like uncertainty. The findings highlight the need for adaptive KT processes when dealing with rapidly evolving healthcare contexts.

This paper offers a novel example of research-to-resource KT in medical education, integrating perspectives from HRD and leveraging emerging technologies. It contributes to understanding how interdisciplinary teams can collaborate to create timely, evidence-based educational resources for navigating uncertainty in professional practice. The study also provides insights into the challenges and opportunities of translating complex research findings into practical learning tools to tackle real-world challenges in HPE.

Chatbots emerge as a prominent trend within the context of evolving communication settings and enhancing customer experience to improve firms' total quality management strategies. Specifically, users’ initial trust in such chatbots is critical for their adoption. Under the realm of technology acceptance theories, the present research aims to investigate drivers (perceived ease of use, performance expectancy, compatibility, social influence and technology anxiety) and impacts (customer experience and chatbot usage intention) of chatbot initial trust, among Generation Z considered as the more tech-savvy generation, in the particular telecommunication services context.

Research data were collected using an online questionnaire-based survey to test research hypotheses. A sample of 385 students was selected in Tunisia using a convenience sampling technique. Data were then analyzed through structural equation modeling by AMOS 23.

The results highlighted that, except for perceived ease of use and performance expectancy, all determinants have a significant influence on chatbot initial trust (positive impact of social influence and compatibility and negative impact of technology anxiety). Furthermore, chatbot initial trust positively stimulates customer experience with chatbots and chatbot intention of use.

Our results provide particular insights to chatbot developers seeking to enhance trust-building features in these systems and telecommunication operators to better understand user adoption and improve chatbot-based customer interactions among Generation Z in emergent markets.

This paper attempts to consolidate and enrich the existing body of chatbot initial trust literature by emphasizing the role of customer experience with chatbots and technology anxiety, as two pivotal consumer-related factors that have not yet been treated together in one research.

This study examines the moderating effects of cultural distance and the nationality of foreign subsidiaries’ CEOs on the relationship between internal/external network tie strength and technological innovation. This study focuses on foreign subsidiaries of Korean firms operating in emerging markets, based on the knowledge-based view.

To test the hypotheses, a survey was administered to 3,840 foreign subsidiaries of Korean firms in emerging markets. Questionnaires were distributed via phone and email, and 282 (7.34%) completed questionnaires were returned. Accordingly, an empirical analysis was conducted, and the hypotheses were tested.

First, internal network tie strength had a significant negative effect on foreign subsidiaries’ technological innovation. Second, external network tie strength had a significant positive effect on foreign subsidiaries’ technological innovation. Third, as for the moderating effect, cultural distance negatively moderates the significant negative effect of internal network tie strength on the technological innovation of foreign subsidiaries. Fourth, cultural distance positively moderates the positive effect of external network tie strength on foreign subsidiaries’ technological innovation. Fifth, foreign subsidiaries’ CEO nationality (parent country nationals) positively moderates the negative effect of internal network tie strength on foreign subsidiaries’ technological innovations. Sixth, foreign subsidiaries’ CEO nationality (parent country nationals) negatively moderates the positive effect of external network tie strength on foreign subsidiaries’ technological innovation.

Previous studies found a positive relationship between dual network tie strength and technological innovation in foreign subsidiaries from a knowledge-based view. This study’s significance lies in its finding that the varying strengths of foreign subsidiaries’ internal and external network connections can have different impacts on their technological innovation in the context of subsidiaries operating in emerging markets. Additionally, the moderating effects of cultural distance and the nationality of the foreign subsidiary’s CEO were examined. Therefore, this study is significant because it expands the literature on technological innovation in foreign subsidiaries.

The purpose of this article is to discuss the “learning nation” concept and examine the characteristics and implications of using the “learning” premodifier in this nation-building program.

This article reviews how the “learning” aspect is inter-related to a series of national information and communication technology masterplans and includes a comparative analysis of the related premodifier “smart” as Singapore sets forth its ambition to become a “smart nation” as part of the digitalization megatrend. A print media indicator and Google Trends form part of the methodology to ascertain the rise of digital technology over a certain period. The former technique involves identifying relevant bibliographic databases and analyzing the volume of publications. The latter technique is a real time index of the volume of queries that users input into Google.

It is suggested that using the term “learning nation” previously and more recently “smart nation” is a consequence of the rise of the digitalization megatrend. The “smart-ness” involves learning about digital technologies, developing digital competencies and harnessing the benefits of these digital capabilities. From a public policy perspective, the article showcases how a city-state can transform itself through technology by riding on megatrends. Also, there is a need to be selective in developing specific areas for the application of digital technologies.

This article contributes to a better understanding on the frequent usage of the word “learning” as a premodifier and Singapore’s nation-building journey through human capital development and digitalization.

This study aims to explore the dress practices of American (US) consumers who wear Halloween fashion products to extend theories related to dress and appearance.

A qualitative, exploratory study using an online survey with open-ended and close-ended questions. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Sixty-two survey responses were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. The results provided insight into social norms for wearing holiday fashion products and that consumer perceptions of the ideal timing for wearing Halloween fashion products may vary based on individuals’ enthusiasm for Halloween. Rather than the social and physical setting, timing restricted or increased the level at which wearers could express their enthusiasm for Halloween. Earlier in the year, respondents felt their freedom of expression was restricted, driving them to wear subtle Halloween fashion products. As Halloween day approached, respondents experienced more freedom in expressing their enthusiasm for the holiday by wearing clothing and accessories more explicitly related to Halloween.

This study extends theory relating to dress and appearance as it acknowledges timing as an element of social context in which identities are established through appearance.

Retailers may consider selling Halloween fashion items that are small and/or less Halloween-specific, “spooky”, gothic earlier in the year.

This study is original in that it explores the timing in which consumers use holiday fashion products. Except for investigating consumer perceptions regarding the timing of retail promotions, researchers have seldom investigated timing as a consideration in constructing an individuals’ identity and appearance.

This study aims to determine the factors that influence payment Fintech application adoption intention among low-income groups in India.

This study used an expanded technology acceptance model (TAM; covering perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, social influence, perceived risk and financial literacy), which was tested using 310 low-income respondents in Northern India. The PLS-SEM approach was used to analyse the data.

The results indicate that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, social influence and financial literacy all has a direct positive relationship with the intention to use Fintech. Furthermore, financial literacy was found to be the moderator in moderating the relationship between social influence and intention to use the Fintech app.

This study ameliorates existing research and deepens the authors’ understanding of users’ intentions to use Fintech among low-income groups. The findings of the study help both policymakers and academicians in designing effective strategies for promoting Fintech usage.

This study examines the factors that determine Fintech application adoption, particularly among low-income individuals. The TAM framework was expanded to include perceived risk and financial literacy as two of the factors influencing Fintech adoption. Furthermore, the moderating role of financial literacy on intention to use Fintech app was considered in this study in the context of a developing country such as India.

The current study investigated the relationship between nostalgia, conspicuous consumption, and impulse buying and compared gender differences in the effects of nostalgia on conspicuous consumption and impulse buying.

A total of 307 college students in western Singapore were recruited. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were conducted to assess the psychometric properties of the scales and estimate model path coefficients. A multi-group analysis was conducted to test if the path coefficients in the research model varied across genders.

This study found that nostalgia had a positive influence on consumers’ conspicuous consumption, which in turn had a positive impact on their impulse buying of sport products. The results of the multi-group analysis also revealed significant differences across gender groups in that the impacts of nostalgia on conspicuous consumption and impulse buying were stronger for male consumers.

This study forges new ground by investigating the intricate dynamics among nostalgia, conspicuous consumption, and impulse buying in the context of sport. By delving into the relationships between them and exploring gender disparities in their effects, this study enhances our understanding of the pivotal role nostalgia plays in shaping consumer behavior in sport. In addition, the identification of gender-specific patterns underscores the significance of tailored marketing approaches for effectively engaging both male and female consumers. Overall, this study presents fresh perspectives that can inform the development of targeted marketing strategies for sport marketers and retailers aiming to optimize their offerings and promotional endeavors.

This paper aims to explore the application of the National Expert Survey (NES) methodology in the circular economy, validating the model in the industrial ecosystem of the Basque Country to identify the challenges faced by the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the machine tool industry and to promote circular entrepreneurship.

This study uses the NES methodology, a globally recognized qualitative tool for gathering expert opinions. This methodology is adapted to the context of industrial circular entrepreneurship, ensuring that the constructs are relevant to the circular economy.

This study validates and expands the application of the NES model in the context of industrial circular entrepreneurship, providing a robust theoretical framework to evaluate the circular entrepreneurial ecosystem. The suitability of the Basque Country context, with its industrial legacy and cultural identity, has been key to this validation.

Concrete recommendations are provided to improve education, government intervention and financial conditions, highlighting key areas that facilitate the transition to sustainable business models and promote innovation and collaboration in the circular economy.

A new model is proposed, pioneering the validation of the NES methodology in industrial circular entrepreneurship and providing a specific tool to evaluate environmental factors in the Basque industry. The adaptation of the NES model offers a solid foundation for future research and applications. The model aids in decision-making, and its use has a social impact.

Este artículo explora la aplicación de la metodología NES en la economía circular, validando el modelo en el ecosistema industrial del País Vasco para identificar los desafíos que enfrenta el ecosistema emprendedor en la industria de la máquina herramienta y propone un modelo original para medir y promover el emprendimiento circular industrial. El modelo ha sido validado en el ecosistema industrial vasco, un contexto de referencia para la actividad y política industrial. Útil para la industria, la política y el ámbito académico, el modelo identifica factores favorables y áreas que requieren atención en el emprendimiento circular industrial.

El estudio utiliza la metodología NES, una herramienta cualitativa reconocida a nivel mundial para recopilar opiniones de expertos. Esta metodología se adapta al contexto del emprendimiento circular industrial, asegurando que los constructos sean relevantes para la economía circular. La metodología es clave para el estudio, ya que se ha diseñado una herramienta original basada en la metodología NES, ampliamente probada y validada, y específicamente adaptada para el emprendimiento circular industrial.

El estudio valida y amplía la aplicación del modelo NES en el contexto del emprendimiento circular industrial, proporcionando un marco teórico robusto para evaluar el ecosistema emprendedor circular. La idoneidad del contexto del País Vasco, con su legado industrial e identidad cultural, ha sido clave para esta validación. Al abordar la notable falta de investigación sobre la economía circular desde la perspectiva del emprendimiento industrial, este artículo se presenta como una contribución particularmente valiosa.

Se propone un nuevo modelo, pionero en la validación de la metodología NES en el emprendimiento circular industrial, proporcionando una herramienta específica para evaluar factores ambientales en la industria vasca. La adaptación del modelo NES ofrece una base sólida para futuras investigaciones y aplicaciones. El modelo ayuda en la toma de decisiones y su uso tiene un impacto social.

Se ofrecen recomendaciones concretas para mejorar la educación, la intervención gubernamental y las condiciones financieras, destacando áreas clave que facilitan la transición hacia modelos de negocio sostenibles y promueven la innovación y la colaboración en la economía circular.

Este artigo explora a aplicação da metodologia NES na economia circular, validando o modelo no ecossistema industrial do País Basco para identificar os desafios enfrentados pelo ecossistema empreendedor na indústria de máquinas-ferramenta e propõe um modelo original para medir e promover o empreendedorismo circular industrial. O modelo foi validado no ecossistema industrial basco, um contexto de referência para a atividade e política industrial. Útil para a indústria, políticas públicas e o meio acadêmico, o modelo identifica fatores favoráveis e áreas que requerem atenção no empreendedorismo circular industrial.

O estudo utiliza a metodologia NES, uma ferramenta qualitativa reconhecida mundialmente para a coleta de opiniões de especialistas. Esta metodologia é adaptada ao contexto do empreendedorismo circular industrial, garantindo que os constructos sejam relevantes para a economia circular. A metodologia é fundamental para o estudo, uma vez que foi desenvolvida uma ferramenta original baseada na metodologia NES, amplamente testada e validada, e especificamente adaptada para o empreendedorismo circular industrial.

O estudo valida e expande a aplicação do modelo NES no contexto do empreendedorismo circular industrial, proporcionando um marco teórico robusto para avaliar o ecossistema empreendedor circular. A adequação do contexto do País Basco, com seu legado industrial e identidade cultural, foi essencial para esta validação. Ao abordar a notável falta de pesquisa sobre a economia circular a partir da perspectiva do empreendedorismo industrial, este artigo se apresenta como uma contribuição particularmente valiosa.

Propõe-se um novo modelo, pioneiro na validação da metodologia NES no empreendedorismo circular industrial, fornecendo uma ferramenta específica para avaliar fatores ambientais na indústria basca. A adaptação do modelo NES oferece uma base sólida para futuras pesquisas e aplicações. O modelo auxilia na tomada de decisões e seu uso tem um impacto social.

São fornecidas recomendações concretas para melhorar a educação, a intervenção governamental e as condições financeiras, destacando áreas-chave que facilitam a transição para modelos de negócios sustentáveis e promovem a inovação e a colaboração na economia circular.

This study examines how users' multidimensional representational fidelity factors affect sociability and cyberself engagement in the Metaverse platform; that is, how they interact with newly defined self-images as their personas in the environments. It investigates how representational fidelity serves platform users to perform social roles and increase their sociability by establishing a new cyberself, thus influencing continuous platform use.

This study surveyed 314 users of the Metaverse platform Horizon, where users can create a virtual agent avatar, meet people in the same online environment in real time, and interact with a sense of three-dimensional immersion. Data were analyzed using partial least squares regression models.

User socialization significantly influenced the intention to use the Metaverse platform. Representational fidelity was a crucial variable for sociability, and activity representational fidelity was the most influential aspect among the four other elements. Platforms should consider how to enable users to create and use activities that faithfully represent their personas.

The novelty of this study is that it introduces representational fidelity based on representation theory into the context of virtual persona in the Metaverse platform. This study extended representational fidelity to the socialization perspective by utilizing the integrated model of user satisfaction and the technology acceptance model. Through the results, this study emphasized that users' sociability significantly influences their intention to use the Metaverse platform. Finally, this study provides a feasible guideline on how practitioners could design and strengthen their platforms so that users can represent their cyberselves faithfully.