P. H. Thyagaraju, Karuna Jain and R. B. Grover
This study aims to identify an empirical process model and to delineate success factors (both success-enabling factors and success-inhibiting factors) and special insights useful…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to identify an empirical process model and to delineate success factors (both success-enabling factors and success-inhibiting factors) and special insights useful for managerial interventions for the transfer of spin-off technologies from a public-funded mission-oriented research organization (PMRO) dealing with nuclear technologies in India.
Design/methodology/approach
Empirical qualitative case study research was conducted on purposively selected five real-life cases by semistructured interviews with the actors involved in tech-transfers from the PMRO. Within-case content analyses were carried out as per grounded theory. The emerging subprocesses were mapped into a conceptual theoretical model preconstructed based on a literature review. Success factors and special insights were identified by reflecting upon the results of analyses. Cross-case analysis was carried out to yield organization-wide findings.
Findings
Organization-wide process model of tech-transfers, success factors and special insights emerged from five cases of technology transfer cases from a PMRO of India.
Research limitations/implications
A limitation stems from the inevitable subjectivity due to considerable presence of human element, and qualitative methods used to study a limited number of cases. However, purposive sampling of cases and traceability of evidence built into the procedure of content analysis largely allay this limitation.
Practical implications
The findings of this research would be useful to practitioners such as scientists, tech-transfer officers, executives of transferee firms and the policymakers of the PMROs for taking well-informed decisions.
Originality/value
Original research was carried out by eliciting field information from the actors of real-life cases. Two of the authors being affiliated with the PMRO makes the research realistic.
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Taher Alkhalaf, Omar Durrah, Abdelbaset Queiri and Syed Haider Ali Shah
Frugal innovation (FI) is a mechanism companies use to create value from limited resources, aiming to meet the needs of a broad customer segment in emerging markets. This study…
Abstract
Frugal innovation (FI) is a mechanism companies use to create value from limited resources, aiming to meet the needs of a broad customer segment in emerging markets. This study investigates the impact of FI on sustainable development (SD) in Libya. Data from 112 employees of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) were analyzed using WarpPLS software and structural equation modeling. The findings indicate that while two factors – low cost of frugal innovation (LCFI) and creation of an ecosystem for frugal innovation (CEFI) – do not significantly affect SD, the core functions of frugal innovation (CFFI) significantly impact SD. This work is among the first empirical studies to explore business models for FI and their influence on SD in Libya, contributing to the theoretical and empirical literature on the topic.
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Richard W. Puyt, Finn Birger Lie and Dag Øivind Madsen
The purpose of this study is to revisit the conventional wisdom about a key contribution [i.e. strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats (SWOT) analysis] in the field of…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to revisit the conventional wisdom about a key contribution [i.e. strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats (SWOT) analysis] in the field of strategic management. The societal context and the role of academics, consultants and executives is taken into account in the emergence of SWOT analysis during the 1960–1980 period as a pivotal development within the broader context of the satisfactory, opportunities, faults, threats (SOFT) approach. The authors report on both the content and the approach, so that other scholars seeking to invigorate indigenous theories and/or underreported strategy practices will thrive.
Design/methodology/approach
Applying a historiographic approach, the authors introduce an evidence-based methodology for interpreting historical sources. This methodology incorporates source criticism, triangulation and hermeneutical interpretation, drawing upon insights from robust evidence through three iterative stages.
Findings
The underreporting of the SOFT approach/SWOT analysis can be attributed to several factors, including strategy tools being integrated into planning frameworks rather than being published as standalone materials; restricted circulation of crucial long-range planning service/theory and practice of planning reports due to copyright limitations; restricted access to the Stanford Research Institute Planning Library in California; and the enduring popularity of SOFT and SWOT variations, driven in part by their memorable acronyms.
Originality
In the spirit of a renaissance in strategic planning research, the authors unveil novel theoretical and social connections in the emergence of SWOT analysis by combining evidence from both theory and practice and delving into previously unexplored areas.
Research implications
Caution is advised for scholars who examine the discrete time frame of 1960–1980 through mere bibliometric techniques. This study underscores the risks associated with gathering incomplete and/or inaccurate data, emphasizing the importance of triangulating evidence beyond scholarly databases. The paradigm shift of strategic management research due to the advent of large language models poses new challenges and the risk of conserving and perpetuating academic urban legends, myths and lies if training data is not adequately curated.
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Bowen Zheng, Mudasir Hussain, Yang Yang, Albert P.C. Chan and Hung-Lin Chi
In the last decades, various building information modeling–life cycle assessment (BIM-LCA) integration approaches have been developed to assess the environmental impact of the…
Abstract
Purpose
In the last decades, various building information modeling–life cycle assessment (BIM-LCA) integration approaches have been developed to assess the environmental impact of the built asset. However, there is a lack of consensus on the optimal BIM-LCA integration approach that provides the most accurate and efficient assessment outcomes. To compare and determine their accuracy and efficiency, this study aimed to investigate four typical BIM-LCA integration solutions, namely, conventional, parametric modeling, plug-in and industry foundation classes (IFC)-based integration.
Design/methodology/approach
The four integration approaches were developed and applied using the same building project. A quantitative technique for evaluating the accuracy and efficiency of BIM-LCA integration solutions was used. Four indicators for assessing the performance of BIM-LCA integration were (1) validity of LCA results, (2) accuracy of bill-of-quantity (BOQ) extraction, (3) time for developing life cycle inventories (i.e. developing time) and (4) time for calculating LCA results (i.e. calculation time).
Findings
The results show that the plug-in-based approach outperforms others in developing and calculation time, while the conventional one could derive the most accuracy in BOQ extraction and result validity. The parametric modeling approach outperforms the IFC-based method regarding BOQ extraction, developing time and calculation time. Despite this, the IFC-based approach produces LCA outcomes with approximately 1% error, proving its validity.
Originality/value
This paper forms one of the first studies that employ a quantitative and objective method to determine the performance of four typical BIM-LCA integration solutions and reveal the trade-offs between the accuracy and efficiency of the integration approaches. The findings provide practical references for LCA practitioners to select appropriate BIM-LCA integration approaches for evaluating the environmental impact of the built asset during the design phase.
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Mornay Roberts-Lombard, Vernon Albert Pieterse and Lennet Gabriel
The study aims to explore how selected factors influence customer’s satisfaction in a business-to-consumer context. Furthermore, it also investigates the mediating role of…
Abstract
Purpose
The study aims to explore how selected factors influence customer’s satisfaction in a business-to-consumer context. Furthermore, it also investigates the mediating role of affective and calculative commitment on the satisfaction–loyalty link.
Design/methodology/approach
Using quota sampling methods, data was collected from 300 retail banking customers in an emergent market setting through self-administered questionnaires. In addition, the measurement and structural models were assessed.
Findings
The study established that satisfaction (through selective precursors) has a positive and significant influence on the future loyalty intentions of retail banking customers in an emerging market. Also, both affective and calculative commitment was found to partially mediate the satisfaction–loyalty relationship in a retail banking setting.
Research limitations/implications
The tested model validates the hypothesized relationships between employee attitude and service performance, employee personality traits, perceived value and satisfaction of retail banking customers in South Africa as an emergent market. It also confirms the positive influence of satisfaction on loyalty and the partial mediation of affective and calculative commitment on the satisfaction–loyalty link.
Practical implications
The findings of the study can guide retail banks in developing enhanced knowledge of how employee attitude and service performance, employee personality traits and perceived value can nurture satisfaction, ultimately strengthening the future loyalty intention of customers. It furthermore informs the management of retail banks of the directional importance of affective commitment and calculative commitment in strengthening the satisfaction–loyalty link.
Originality/value
Limited studies have investigated the relationship between satisfaction, its precursors and outcomes in a developing African market context, such as South Africa. Also, few studies have examined how commitment (affective and calculative) impacts the satisfaction–loyalty link from an emerging market perspective in Africa.
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Admire Mthombeni, Obert Sifile, Julius Tapera, Rahabhi Mashapure, Purity Hamunakwadi and Bronson Mutanda
The concept of frugal innovation has been scholarly discussed from different perspectives. It is a concept that has in the recent years been receiving much attention. In this…
Abstract
The concept of frugal innovation has been scholarly discussed from different perspectives. It is a concept that has in the recent years been receiving much attention. In this view, much of the scholarly attention has been given to the benefits of frugal innovation. However, sparse and little attention has been given to the possibilities and challenges of frugal innovation in attaining sustainable development in African Nations. Much of the work has explored the benefits of disruptive frugal innovation. Given this background, this chapter, therefore, seeks to contribute to disruptive frugal digital innovation by highlighting the challenges and possibilities frugal innovation brings in an attempt to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) especially SDG 1 that aims to end poverty in all forms as well as SDG 8 that aims to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and foster innovation. Hence, this chapter aims to unleash some possibilities and challenges that can be brought by frugal innovation. Using literature analysis from 21 articles from Google Scholar, the chapter pre-empts key definitions and highlights the SDGs, the possibilities and challenges brought by frugal innovation in achieving economic and social sustainability in Africa. It is through these insights that the chapter seeks to inform theory, practice and policy in the context of SDGs in Africa.
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Gracious Mutipforo, Njodzi Ranganai, Solomon Marime, Allan C. Muzenda, Prosper Tafadzwa Denhere, Chipo Katsande and Tendai Shelton Muwani
Across Africa, disruptive digital frugal innovations (DDFIs) are evolving as potent catalysts for sustainable development. This research explored into the complex interplay…
Abstract
Across Africa, disruptive digital frugal innovations (DDFIs) are evolving as potent catalysts for sustainable development. This research explored into the complex interplay between DDFI and sustainability, moving beyond traditional narratives of mere affordability to discover its potential for transformative change across environmental, social, and economic dimensions. This chapter sought to firstly unravel the multifaceted relationships between DDFI and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in diverse African contexts; secondly it examined the socioeconomic and environmental impacts of DDFI across key sectors, thus healthcare and agriculture, identifying both positive contributions and unintended consequences. Diffusion of innovation theory formed the lens of the study; qualitative data were analyzed according to emerging themes. Research findings revealed that implementation of DDFI exhibits immense potential to address critical sustainability challenges, empowering communities through social inclusion, improve access to essential services, and empower marginalized communities to actively participate in development processes. Data privacy, intellectual property rights, and potential exploitation of communities were some of the challenges noted which require careful consideration and responsible innovation practices. The study recommends to foster inclusive cocreation processes that involve local communities in needs assessment, design, and implementation of DDFI solutions and bridge the digital divide through investing in robust infrastructure development, digital literacy programs, and affordable access to technology.
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Xiao-Yu Xu, Syed Muhammad Usman Tayyab, Qingdan Jia and Albert H. Huang
Video game streaming (VGS) is emerging as an extremely popular, highly interactive, inordinately subscribed and very dynamic form of digital media. Incorporated environmental…
Abstract
Purpose
Video game streaming (VGS) is emerging as an extremely popular, highly interactive, inordinately subscribed and very dynamic form of digital media. Incorporated environmental elements, gratifications and user pre-existing attitudes in VGS, this paper presents the development of an extended model of uses and gratification theory (EUGT) for predicting users' behavior in novel technological context.
Design/methodology/approach
The proposed model was empirically tested in VGS context due to its popularity, interactivity and relevance. Data collected from 308 VGS users and structural equation modeling (SEM) was employed to assess the hypotheses. Multi-model comparison technique was used to assess the explanatory power of EUGT.
Findings
The findings confirmed three significant types elements in determining VGS viewers' engagement, including gratifications (e.g. involvement), environmental cues (e.g. medium appeal) and user predispositions (e.g. pre-existing attitudes). The results revealed that emerging technologies provide potential opportunities for new motives and gratifications, and highlighted the significant of pre-existing attitudes as a mediator in the gratification-uses link.
Originality/value
This study is one of its kind in tackling the criticism on UGT of considering media users too rational or active. The study achieved this objective by considering environmental impacts on user behavior which is largely ignored in recent UGT studies. Also, by incorporating users pre-existing attitudes into UGT framework, this study conceptualized and empirically verified the higher explanatory power of EUGT through a novel multi-modal approach in VGS. Compared to other rival models, EUGS provides a more robust explanation of users' behavior. The findings contribute to the literature of UGT, VGS and users' engagement.
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Daniela Cortés, Albert Anton Traxler and Dorothea Greiling
While research on sustainability reporting in the construction industry has already provided comprehensive findings, the purpose of this paper is to answer the question of how…
Abstract
Purpose
While research on sustainability reporting in the construction industry has already provided comprehensive findings, the purpose of this paper is to answer the question of how construction companies anchor the topic of sustainability in their strategic and operative management control practices. The implementation of sustainable business models and sustainability strategies requires proper management control instruments or mechanisms that support the transformation process or make it possible in the first place.
Design/methodology/approach
A qualitative content analysis based on deductive and inductive procedures was conducted. 39 sustainability reports published by the largest construction companies in the EU were examined.
Findings
Valuable insights are provided by showing which control instruments and mechanisms are used to improve corporate sustainability performance as well as how these are linked systematically. The results show that the focus is on strategic planning, cultural and administrative controls, while short-term targets, which could set out the path to achieving the long-term sustainability goals set, are often not reported. Strategic stakeholder theory and legitimacy theory provide explanations for the use of management control practices identified.
Originality/value
Previous studies often focus on selected single control practices and miss holistic approaches for investigating corporate sustainability in construction companies. Furthermore, theoretical perspectives with instrumental and socio/political views on corporate sustainability help us explain the control practices applied. Moreover, practitioners, standard setters and legislators can use the findings for sustainability management or for developing standards and legislation.
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Albert Anton Traxler, Daniela Schrack, Dorothea Greiling, Julia Feldbauer and Michaela Lautner
Companies must no longer just report on corporate sustainability (CS) performance but also demonstrate that they are aligning their strategies with sustainability. However…
Abstract
Purpose
Companies must no longer just report on corporate sustainability (CS) performance but also demonstrate that they are aligning their strategies with sustainability. However, suitable management control systems (MCS) are required to implement a sustainability strategy. Thereby, sustainability reporting (SR) can also be employed for control purposes. On the other hand, existing MCS can be used to develop SR that goes beyond accountability. Accordingly, this paper explores how this interplay can be designed.
Design/methodology/approach
For the study, 20 semi-structured interviews were conducted with persons from ATX and DAX companies. Since the interplay should be examined from a holistic control perspective, the authors used the MCS package of Malmi and Brown as an analysis framework.
Findings
Nowadays, merely focusing on reporting is too narrow a view. It is therefore not surprising that the investigation was able to reveal various possible linkages between MCS and SR that span the full range of the MCS package of Malmi and Brown.
Research limitations/implications
Future research should also consider non-listed companies to investigate potential differences and take a closer look at the proposed reciprocal nature of the interplay.
Practical implications
The findings expand the knowledge of how companies can use SR for control purposes and how existing MCS can help develop a reporting that goes beyond accountability.
Originality/value
The study contributes by highlighting the potential of SR to control CS performance from a holistic MCS perspective and likewise the impact of existing MCS on reporting. In addition, different theoretical perspectives are used to explain why the interplay can be designed differently in practice.