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The purpose of this study is to offer a business process management (BPM) framework with information and insights on designing, implementing, using and assessing business processes for continuous improvement towards operational excellence.

An action research is carried out over two and a half years on the BPM evolution of a Brazilian entertainment organisation.

Research provides a novel procedural framework towards improving the understanding of how a complete lifecycle approach for BPM can be implemented for continuous improvement, embracing the critical success factors for each lifecycle phase to achieve operational excellence. Information technology and project management are critical success factors resulting in project barriers. Strategic alignment, top management support, collaborative environment, methods and methodology, and focus on users and culture are acknowledged as main enablers. Findings reinforce the importance of an organisation analysis phase to begin the BPM development and highlight the assessment and improvement phase to respond to organisational environment dynamism.

Practitioners can benefit from the lessons learnt and the proposed framework, which serves as a rigorous methodology to achieve operational excellence in their real-world settings.

This paper goes beyond the well-known design and analysis phases of BPM development, generally studied with an individual focus, offering a complete lifecycle approach for continuous improvement, analysing each phase, from the drawing board to its use and evaluation. It counts on an original longitudinal study rather than a single-time assessment study.

This study aims to develop a model for coordination and communication overhead in distributed software development through case study analysis in the Indian outsourcing software industry. The model is based on business knowledge, which can be classified as domain, regulatory, strategic, business process and operation process knowledge as per existing literature.

Double case study method was used to verify an existing knowledge–management framework of software development from the literature. The stakeholders of both the cases were interviewed, and project documents were verified to reach conclusions.

The findings supported the business knowledge classification from the literature. The concept can be used to analyze the software project in a distributed environment.

The research work findings are based only on two case studies. The study findings cannot be generalized and should be used as a learning tool. There can be large variations of project characteristics with differences in business knowledge requirements. The research shows the importance of business knowledge transfer in global software development.

Projects managers in the distributed software development environment can use the findings in project planning and work allocation for better control over cost and schedule, etc.

There is little research works attempted to study the business knowledge classification in the global software industry making the research novel.

The rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) signals a new chapter in the realm of digital transformation, presenting significant implications for businesses globally. With rapid advancements in technology and the widespread impact of AI, maintaining competitiveness in various industries is met with growing challenges. This piece explores the concept of Industry 5.0, where robots work in harmony with human intelligence, ushering in a new era of collaborative manufacturing.

It investigates the integration of AI into Marketing 5.0 strategies, highlighting its crucial role in helping companies transition towards AI as a Service. The article also outlines the benefits and considerations of Industry 5.0, offering insights into the potential implications for manufacturers. Additionally, recent advancements tailored for Industry 5.0 applications and environments are elucidated.

The conversation also touches on how Industry 5.0 will affect manufacturing industries and the economy as a whole. It highlights the opportunities it could bring for businesses, rather than focusing on the potential job displacement. Industry 5.0 is seen as a powerful force that will drive economic growth and increase productivity in manufacturing. It emphasises the important relationship between human creativity, technological advancement and industrial advancement.

Given today’s dynamic environment, process improvement and innovation (PII) are a central activity for business process management. Despite increasingly available process data and advances in artificial intelligence, only a few works address the automation of PII, highlighting the need for so-called PII systems that support human process designers. However, previous research focuses on problem statements and expository software engineering artifacts. In contrast, design knowledge for PII systems remains scarce, presenting challenges for researchers and practitioners alike. Prescriptive knowledge could address this issue and support future PIIS development. Thus, this paper provides design knowledge for PII systems in the form of 14 design principles.

We follow the design science research paradigm, building on two systematic literature reviews, 20 exploratory expert interviews and two evaluation surveys.

This paper presents three design requirements and 14 design principles for PII systems as the main contribution. They help to identify necessary functionalities, guide the design and development of future PIIS and serve as a starting point toward comprehensive design knowledge for PII systems.

The original contribution of this paper consists of prescriptive design knowledge for PII systems based on literature and qualitative insights. To the best of our knowledge, we are the first to define design principles for PII systems, bringing together knowledge from related system classes as well as unique requirements from a process design perspective.

Process management principles are challenging owing to the increasing need for sustainable operations. The demand for rapid deliveries implies accelerated changes and increased flexibility. Therefore, this study aims to facilitate process improvements based on change-driven needs.

The research is conducted using holistic multiple case studies of eight Swedish organisations (with employees from Sweden, France and Germany), representing the automotive, energy, medical technology, healthcare, telecom and social services sectors.

A process management model with four change-driven phases is presented. The model fulfils demands for both speed and quality in process changes, providing specific guidance on working methods for (1) control and stability, (2) creativity and stability, (3) creativity and change and (4) control and change.

This research is limited to eight organisations in Sweden, France, and Germany that participate in the automotive, energy, medical technology, healthcare, telecom and social services sectors. Future research should explore broader international contexts.

The proposed model helps decision-makers adapt process management to evolving business and operational needs; thus, leaders can make grounded decisions on when and how to change operations based on changing internal and external requirements.

This study challenges the current process management paradigm with new knowledge of how process management can be adapted to new business opportunities.

This study aims to investigate the integration of smart contracts into the legal framework of Saudi Arabia, spotlighting the pivotal role of blockchain technology in revolutionizing contractual processes. It evaluates the capacity of smart contracts to enhance the efficiency, security and transparency of legal transactions, while critically examining the legal challenges their adoption presents.

Through qualitative analysis, this research explores the operational dynamics of smart contracts, with a focus on their autonomous execution and the digital codification of contractual terms. It scrutinizes the alignment of smart contracts with the Saudi legal system, concentrating on pivotal issues such as the establishment of mutual consent, the verification of contracting parties’ capacity and adherence to conventional legal doctrines.

This study uncovers the transformative potential of smart contracts in redefining the execution of contracts, highlighting their advantages in streamlining transactions and enhancing contractual reliability. However, it also identifies significant obstacles in the path of their full integration into Saudi Arabia’s legal landscape, notably the challenge of reconciling smart contracts’ technology-driven operations with established legal norms and rectifying potential legal inconsistencies.

Offering fresh perspectives on the confluence of technology and law, this paper illuminates the complex task of implementing smart contracts within a legal framework that is in the process of adapting to digital innovation. It advocates for a sophisticated strategy of regulatory adjustment that promotes the legal system's evolution alongside technological progress, ensuring the effective and legally sound utilization of smart contracts.

This study aims to address gaps in the integration of Building Information Modelling (BIM) into procurement processes for construction works under the Portuguese Code of Public Contracts (CCP). The goal is to improve procurement procedures with practical recommendations benefiting both public and private sectors, and applicable in other countries, promoting efficient BIM use in construction projects.

The study involved a literature review and expert interviews to identify opportunities within the CCP related to construction procurement that impact BIM implementation during construction works. It critically analyzed these insights and proposed specific adjustments to the CCP to enhance BIM application in public construction works.

The study provides practical recommendations to address two main gaps identified in the literature: the neglect of non-specific digitalization factors influencing BIM implementation, and the lack of consideration for specific constraints in public procurement, particularly those dictated by legal frameworks like the CCP. These recommendations aim to optimize traditional procurement provisions for public construction, thereby improving BIM utilization on-site.

The study’s social implications include enhanced transparency and efficiency in construction processes, leading to reduced delays and costs for both stakeholders and the public. By optimizing BIM practices, public resources can be used more effectively in construction projects. The research may also accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies in the industry and improve urban development through better-planned and executed infrastructure projects. Additionally, the study’s recommendations could serve as a model for other countries, fostering the adoption of higher construction standards on a global scale.

The study’s original contribution lies in its comprehensive examination of public procurement procedures, particularly within the CCP context, to enhance the utilization of BIM during construction works. It uniquely identifies literature gaps and provides practical recommendations addressing non-specific digitalization factors and legal constraints in public procurement.

This study aims to examine the challenges and risks in public procurement, focusing on Greece’s context within the EU framework. It seeks to provide guidance on mitigating potential risks throughout different stages of public procurement by leveraging the knowledge of Greek professionals and existing literature. The research explores the implementation of the national public procurement plan in Greece, aiming to accelerate contract awards, reduce bureaucracy, promote competition and encourage cost-effectiveness among contracting authorities.

The study uses a qualitative approach, combining a literature review with expert interviews. Greek professionals with extensive experience in public procurement were consulted to gather insights on current practices, challenges and risk mitigation strategies. The research also analyzes EU public procurement strategies and their implementation in Greece. This mixed-method approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of the public procurement landscape, integrating theoretical frameworks with practical insights from industry experts.

The research reveals significant improvements in Greece’s public procurement sector despite persistent irregularities and challenges. Key findings include the need for increased transparency, professionalization of sector staff, support for SMEs and enhanced digitization. The study identifies specific risks at various stages of the procurement process and proposes mitigation strategies. It also highlights the importance of implementing the national public procurement plan to streamline processes, reduce bureaucratic hurdles and promote competition and cost-effectiveness.

Effective public procurement management has far-reaching social implications. By improving the quality and efficiency of public spending, it can enhance public services and infrastructure, ultimately benefiting citizens’ quality of life. Increased transparency and fair competition can foster trust between citizens and government, promoting a culture of accountability. Supporting SMEs in public procurement can stimulate economic growth and job creation. Furthermore, promoting sustainability and innovation through procurement practices can contribute to broader societal goals such as environmental protection and technological advancement.

This study provides a unique perspective on public procurement challenges and risk management in Greece within the EU context. By combining insights from experienced Greek professionals with a comprehensive literature review, it offers practical, context-specific guidance for risk mitigation in public procurement. The research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on public procurement reform in EU member states, particularly those facing similar challenges to Greece. Its findings and recommendations can inform policy-making, improve procurement practices and enhance the overall effectiveness of public spending in Greece and potentially other EU countries.

The main aim of this study was to determine the scope of application for an innovation management assessment framework (IMAF) within innovation management. Two distinct geographical regions: ANZ (Australia and New Zealand) and TMSV (Thailand, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Vietnam) were chosen to identify and analyse significant comparative differences.

A quantitative research approach was used using empirical data collected through an online questionnaire-based survey. Statistical data analysis, including descriptive statistics, univariate analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Hsu’s MCB (multiple comparisons with/to the best) post-hoc test results, was carried out to identify significant differences and similarities in innovation management capabilities within the two regions.

The descriptive statistics analysis reveals areas for potential enhancement in all the model constructs within both regions under investigation. Significant differences in innovation management capabilities between the two regions are identified, specifically in the design for lean six sigma (DFLSS) and the operation function commercial (COMM). However, when considering the remaining constructs of the IMAF, no significant differences in innovation management capabilities are observed between the regions.

The research is limited by the relatively small size of survey questionnaire responses from the targeted population. Future studies could be conducted on a global scale to increase responses.

The research findings serve as valuable insights into the development of important and useful guidelines for managers and innovation practitioners engaged in innovation planning and management.

The critical analysis conducted in this research, focusing on innovation management capabilities by region, represents a significant advancement in the existing body of work that utilises the IMAF model.

The main purpose of this study is to enhance knowledge regarding the early stages of planning for and adopting artificial intelligence (AI) in governmental public procurement. While there are numerous studies on AI and procurement in private companies, there is limited information on AI and public procurement.

The empirical data consists of information obtained from 18 semi-structured interviews with procurement managers and individuals involved in the development of procurement at governmental agencies. Additionally, a workshop was conducted with the respondents to discuss and validate the study’s findings.

Findings indicate a generally low level of AI maturity in previous research and within the investigated governmental agencies. The perceived benefits of AI primarily revolve around improved operational capabilities, potential for certain process efficiencies and the ability to enhance monitoring through AI. Various challenges related to organizational, process, technological and data management were highlighted. Findings also indicate that perceived benefits and value created by AI can be viewed from a short-term perspective to a long-term perspective.

The study provides insights into societal values that can be achieved using AI in public procurement.

This study provides a new perspective on AI in public procurement by focusing on governmental agencies. It explores the perceived benefits, interests and challenges associated with AI implementation in public procurement. Furthermore, this study discusses the potential outcomes of incorporating AI in public procurement and the impact it may have on the values created by the public service, both short- and long term.