Search results
1 – 5 of 5Ioannis Christodoulou, Moustafa Haj Youssef, Jahangir Wasim, Tam Thi Thanh Phan, Robert Reinhardt and Bao Ngoc Nguyen
This study aims to explore the impact of social, financial and institutional factors on women’s entrepreneurship in Vietnam, emphasizing motivation’s role in addressing…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore the impact of social, financial and institutional factors on women’s entrepreneurship in Vietnam, emphasizing motivation’s role in addressing challenges. Women’s entrepreneurship holds economic significance, driving local economies and creating opportunities. Government efforts to support women entrepreneurs have increased, but research on this in developing economies, especially in Vietnam, is limited.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper investigates women’s entrepreneurship in Vietnam, examining social, financial and institutional influences and emphasizing motivation in overcoming challenges. Using a qualitative approach, it conducts in-depth interviews with 28 female entrepreneurs, analyzing data thematically. Methodologically, the study uses purposive sampling, triangulation and member checking to enhance credibility.
Findings
Findings reveal key motivations like financial incentives, self-achievement and social impact. These motivations empower women to overcome financial constraints, skill gaps, limited support and societal perceptions. This research guides women entrepreneurs to enhance success through learning, persistence, skill development and self-awareness.
Originality/value
This paper presents a novel exploration into women’s entrepreneurship in Vietnam, offering original insights into the interplay of social, financial and institutional factors, with a spotlight on motivational drivers. It provides unique perspectives on their motivations, challenges and support mechanisms. The study’s contribution lies in its comprehensive understanding of women’s entrepreneurship dynamics in a developing economy like Vietnam, offering valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners and academics alike. Its originality lies in its holistic approach and nuanced examination, enriching the discourse on women’s entrepreneurship in emerging
Details
Keywords
Ioannis Christodoulou, Ioannis Rizomyliotis, Kleopatra Konstantoulaki, Alireza Nazarian and Do Binh
This study employs an interpretivist approach to investigate how blockchain technology can transform the remittance industry.
Abstract
Purpose
This study employs an interpretivist approach to investigate how blockchain technology can transform the remittance industry.
Design/methodology/approach
We collected data from blockchain experts with extensive experience, compellingly demonstrating the revolutionary impact of blockchain technology on the remittance sector.
Findings
Despite experiencing rapid growth, the global remittance sector still faces challenges such as high costs and lengthy transaction times. However, blockchain technology, known for disrupting emerging industries, offers a decentralized and secure mechanism for containing, storing and managing information. By leveraging rapid block confirmations, blockchain reduces settlement times in remittance transactions, enabling value transfers between parties with just a crypto wallet.
Research limitations/implications
The implications of this study are profound for theorists, as it validates existing theoretical frameworks, identifies specific pain points and explores exciting opportunities presented by blockchain technology. Additionally, we provide a roadmap for future research and innovation, bridging theory and practice and setting the stage for advancement, fostering knowledge, innovation and the successful integration of blockchain technology in the remittance industry.
Originality/value
Analysis highlights a unanimous consensus among experts regarding the transformative potential of blockchain technology in the remittance industry. This consensus serves as a strong impetus for practitioners to swiftly adopt blockchain-based solutions, capitalizing on opportunities such as stable coin issuance, elimination of intermediaries in foreign exchange trading, access to liquidity and the exploration of new business models. Successfully addressing challenges like congestion and limited reach will ensure seamless integration.
Details
Keywords
Moustafa Haj Youssef, Tarek El Masri, Ioannis Christodoulou and Lan Mai Thanh
This viewpoint aims to provide an overview of graduate employability in Lebanon from the perspective of the Dean of Olayan School of Business at the American University of Beirut…
Abstract
Purpose
This viewpoint aims to provide an overview of graduate employability in Lebanon from the perspective of the Dean of Olayan School of Business at the American University of Beirut, who is a reputable academic leader heading a world-ranked business school. The discussion also looks at the external factors that affect graduate employability in Lebanon with direct references to the Covid-19 pandemic and the economic crisis.
Design/methodology/approach
Through conversation with the Dean of a prominent business school in Lebanon, this viewpoint discusses several topics pertaining to the concept of graduate employability.
Findings
To boost graduate employability the focus should be on developing the curriculum, engaging with the alumni network, exploiting the board of governors and building on the school’s reputation and legacy.
Originality/value
Crises do offer new opportunities. Covid-19 pandemic has prepared employers to accept the idea of remote working, which has helped in boosting graduate employability in Lebanon.
Details
Keywords
Moustafa Haj Youssef, Jahangir Wasim, Ioannis Christodoulou and Robert Reinhardt
The aim of this study is to explore and elucidate the influence of polygamy on the succession dynamics of family businesses in the Arab world, offering insights that may be…
Abstract
Purpose
The aim of this study is to explore and elucidate the influence of polygamy on the succession dynamics of family businesses in the Arab world, offering insights that may be underrepresented or overlooked in traditional, Western-focused literature.
Design/methodology/approach
This article adopts a perspective-based approach, focusing on delving into the amalgamation of polygamous family structures and their implications on the operation and continuation of family-run businesses.
Findings
Polygamy, while often primarily perceived as a cultural or religious tradition, wields substantial influence over various business facets. Notably, its presence can significantly shape business continuity, the methodologies behind succession planning and the overarching framework of corporate governance within Arab family businesses.
Originality/value
This article offers a unique Middle Eastern lens, highlighting the underexplored intersection of polygamy and business succession. It strives to bridge the knowledge gap by addressing topics potentially sidelined in mainstream Western business research.
Details
Keywords
Ioannis Christodoulou, Satrio Utomo Putranto, Moustafa Haj Youssef, Aspasia Simillidou and Jana Chovancová
The research investigates scaling and client networking in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), using ABCD, an Indonesian telecom tower provider, as a case study. Key…
Abstract
Purpose
The research investigates scaling and client networking in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), using ABCD, an Indonesian telecom tower provider, as a case study. Key findings underscore the importance of strategic planning, human resource management, networking and customer-centric approaches for successful scaling. ABCD's experiences inform practical guidance for SMEs, advocating strategic scaling, leveraging personal networks, implementing customer relationship management (CRM), fostering adaptability and prioritizing customer satisfaction. Theoretical implications enrich discussions on demand-driven scaling, network dynamics and CRM application. Overall, the study offers concise insights into SME growth strategies, drawing from ABCD's experiences and broader literature.
Design/methodology/approach
The methodology employed in this study adopts a case study approach, focusing on ABCD, a telecom tower provider in Indonesia. Qualitative analysis of textual data is conducted, combining deductive reasoning to establish theoretical frameworks from existing literature and inductive reasoning to identify emergent themes. Interviews, structured around four thematic domains, were conducted with a diverse cohort of participants selected through convenience and snowball sampling techniques. Ethical considerations were paramount, with written consent obtained and interviews conducted in Bahasa Indonesia to ensure linguistic alignment. Grounded Theory was applied to analyse data, seeking to enrich theoretical frameworks and inform managerial practices in SMEs.
Findings
The findings illuminate strategies applicable to all SMEs in scaling up and fortifying client networks. Emphasizing demand-driven scaling and strategic client acquisition, SMEs are encouraged to leverage personal networks and exhibit adaptability in response to market trends. Implementing CRM principles fosters lasting client relationships and profitability. Practical implications underscore the importance of strategic planning, proactive networking and customer-centric approaches for SMEs aiming to navigate growth complexities. Theoretical insights contribute to scholarly discourse on SME growth strategies, network dynamics, CRM application and organizational strategies, enriching understanding of SMEs' journey in scaling up and client networking.
Research limitations/implications
The study's limitations encompass its reliance on a single case study, necessitating caution in generalizing findings to diverse SME contexts. Further empirical validation is warranted to enhance the study's robustness. However, the study offers exciting implications for both academia and practice, shedding light on the intricate dynamics of scaling strategies and client networking in SMEs. Its critical appraisal of conventional notions challenges prevailing wisdom, paving the way for future research to explore innovative approaches and enrich scholarly discourse.
Practical implications
The practical implications underscore the transformative potential for SMEs, urging strategic adoption of scaling strategies and client networking dynamics. Emphasizing proactive planning and adaptive approaches, SMEs can navigate growth complexities and fortify client relationships. By prioritizing human capital, leveraging personal networks and embracing customer-centricity, SMEs can enhance profitability and sustainability. These insights serve as a roadmap for SMEs, guiding them towards strategic growth and success in a dynamic business landscape.
Social implications
The research unfolds critical insights with profound social implications for SMEs worldwide. By illuminating effective strategies in scaling up and nurturing client networks, it empowers SMEs to thrive in competitive landscapes, fostering economic growth and job creation. Additionally, its emphasis on leveraging personal networks and adopting customer-centric approaches underscores the importance of social capital and community engagement in business success. This not only strengthens SME resilience but also cultivates a culture of collaboration and innovation within local communities. Ultimately, the research serves as a catalyst for social transformation, empowering SMEs to become engines of prosperity and positive change.
Originality/value
The findings critically appraise strategies imperative for all SMEs, challenging conventional notions and offering pragmatic insights into scaling and client networking dynamics. By juxtaposing empirical evidence from ABCD's experiences with existing theoretical frameworks, the study exposes nuances often overlooked in scholarly discourse. Its value lies in bridging the gap between theory and practice, shedding light on the intricate challenges facing SMEs in navigating growth complexities.
Details