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1 – 10 of 116Yang S. Yang, Xiaojin Sun, Mengge Li and Tingting Yan
This study investigates the extent to which a firm’s centrality and autonomy in its supply network are associated with the intensity and complexity of its competitive actions.
Abstract
Purpose
This study investigates the extent to which a firm’s centrality and autonomy in its supply network are associated with the intensity and complexity of its competitive actions.
Design/methodology/approach
Utilizing social network analysis and dynamic panel data models, this study analyzes a comprehensive panel dataset with 10,802 firm-year observations across various industries between 2011 and 2018 to test the hypotheses.
Findings
Our findings show that a firm’s level of centrality in its supply network has an inverted U-shaped relationship with both competitive intensity and competitive complexity. In addition, the turning points of these two inverted U-shaped relationships differ in that firms with a lower level of centrality tend to compete aggressively by launching more actions within fewer categories, while firms with a higher level of centrality tend to compete aggressively by launching fewer actions that cover a larger range of categories. Finally, we find that a firm’s structural autonomy has a positive relationship with competitive complexity.
Originality/value
This study bridges the gap between the supply chain management literature and strategic management literature and investigates how supply networks shape competitive aggressiveness. In particular, this research investigates how a firm’s structural position in its supply network affects its competitive actions, an important intermediate mechanism for competitive advantage that has been overlooked in the supply chain management literature.
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Chunliang Niu, Chunfei Bai, Liming Guo, BingZhuo Liu and Lei Chen
In order to improve the rationality of the design of carbon fiber composite riveting structures in engineering products and reduce physical tests, the stress changes of various…
Abstract
Purpose
In order to improve the rationality of the design of carbon fiber composite riveting structures in engineering products and reduce physical tests, the stress changes of various parts during the carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) riveting process, the influence area of hole edge stress and the damage of CFRP plates were studied from the perspective of numerical simulation. The reasonable arrangement requirements of composite riveted structures, installation speed and damage characteristics of CFRP plates in engineering applications are obtained. The research results provide technical references for the design and installation of composite riveting structures in engineering products.
Design/methodology/approach
Taking the forming process of the riveted structure between countersunk blind rivets and CFRP plates as the research object, the forming principle of countersunk blind rivets and the damage characteristics of CFRP plates were analyzed. Using contact nonlinearity theory, the anisotropic material modeling method and the Hashin failure criterion, the stress changes in various parts during the riveted joint forming process, the influence area of stress at the hole edge of the rivet holes and the damage of the CFRP plates were analyzed.
Findings
Reasonable rivet layout spacing was obtained; the peak stress of the rivet assembly increases with the increase of the rivet installation speed, and the influence area of the hole edge on the CFRP plate is a circular area with an outward extension radius of 0∼6 mm. Therefore, the arrangement distance between rivets is greater than the ring area, the damage law and installation speed of CFRP plates are given, the damage extends inward from the first layer of the laminates and the installation speed of 15 mm/s can satisfy the requirement of riveting installation better.
Originality/value
The riveting and forming process under different speeds is analyzed from the perspective of numerical simulation, and the stress variation rule of each part of the rivet and the damage of the CFRP plate under each speed are obtained. Reasonable rivet arrangement requirements and installation speed were given. This study provides technical support for the rivet arrangement method and mechanical property analysis of CFRP riveted structures in complex engineering products.
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Hayat Hocine, Friha Khelfaoui, Y. Al-Douri, Keltouma Boudia, Fabien Fontaine-Vive, Ouafaa Sadouki, Amel Slamani, Kadda Amara, Mawloud Belabbas, Fadila Belkharroubi and M. Ameri
The mechanical properties, including elastic constants and moduli, indicate the material’s stiffness and stability. Our calculations reveal that CuMg2GaS4 is a direct bandgap…
Abstract
Purpose
The mechanical properties, including elastic constants and moduli, indicate the material’s stiffness and stability. Our calculations reveal that CuMg2GaS4 is a direct bandgap semiconductor, 2.18 eV. A detailed analysis of the electronic structure provides an insight into the bonding characteristics and charge distribution within the material.
Design/methodology/approach
This work presents a comprehensive investigation of the structural, electronic, optical, mechanical properties of the CuMg2GaS4 compound using density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Unlike its counterpart CuMg2InS4, which exhibits a tetragonal WS structure, CuMg2GaS4 is found to be an energetically stable in the monoclinic phase.
Findings
The calculated effective masses of electrons (0.38 m0) and holes (1.28 m0) suggest promising charge carrier mobility within the compound. Furthermore, based on the evaluation of electronic structure and optical absorption properties of CuMg2GaS4 in relation with the redox potentials of water, this demonstrates its potential as a promising candidate for efficient photocatalytic water splitting under visible light irradiation. These findings contribute to the understanding of the structural and functional properties of CuMg2GaS4 and pave the way for its potential applications in optoelectronic and energy conversion devices.
Originality/value
The prime novelty is to employ ab initio self-consistent Full-Potential Linearized augmented plane wave + local orbital method (FP-LAPW + lo) and investigate the properties of CuMg2GaS4 of structural, mechanical, thermodynamic stabilities, linear optical response.
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Yu-Ching Chiao, Chun-Ju Huang, Chun-Chien Lin and Tang-Shun Chuang
This study aims to examine conditions in both inter- and intra-alliance contexts within an oligopolistic alliance industry operating across multiple markets. It focuses on how a…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine conditions in both inter- and intra-alliance contexts within an oligopolistic alliance industry operating across multiple markets. It focuses on how a focal firm’s optimal performance depends on nuanced evaluations of the trade-offs associated with coopetitive synergy, and on decisions about whether to collaborate or compete with its members.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors analyze the six leading global container shipping firms within two major alliances (The Grand Alliance and the New World Alliance) from 2003 to 2010, gathering 7,825 news articles from the Cyber Shipping Guide, a comprehensive global container shipping business database in Japan.
Findings
The findings reveal the following: (1) the focal firm cooperating with members of a rival alliance decreases the level of inter-alliance competition. (2) The focal firm cooperating with members of a rival alliance increases the level of intra-alliance competition. (3) Increased inter-alliance competition negatively impacts the performance of the focal firm. (4) Increased intra-alliance competition negatively impacts the performance of the focal firm.
Practical implications
Global container shipping firms should make optimal decisions about which firms to cooperate with, focusing on those that contribute to the focal firm’s overall synergies and thus performance.
Originality/value
This study contributes to the literature on coopetition in strategic alliances by extending the concept of dynamic coopetition to include strategic alliance groupings, and by examining how focal firm members cooperate in both inter- and intra-alliance contexts.
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M. Khalis and R. Masrour
The purpose of this study is to investigate the behavior of a silicon solar cell when subjected to a magnetic field. Specifically, the study aims to understand how the presence of…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to investigate the behavior of a silicon solar cell when subjected to a magnetic field. Specifically, the study aims to understand how the presence of the magnetic field influences the distribution of excess minority carriers within the base region of the solar cell. By solving the one-dimensional continuity equation under these conditions, the study seeks to elucidate the transient dynamics of carrier generation, recombination and transport processes. This research contributes to the broader understanding of how external magnetic fields can impact the performance and efficiency of silicon solar cells, potentially informing future optimizations or applications in photovoltaic technology.
Design/methodology/approach
The solar cell is assumed to be uniformly illuminated, which simplifies the analysis of carrier generation to a function of depth (x). The emitter and space charge region contributions are considered while neglecting the diffusion region. The injection level remains constant throughout the analysis, focusing specifically on the base thickness region, H = 200 µm.
Findings
The findings of this study reveal significant insights into the behavior of a silicon solar cell under the influence of a magnetic field. Key findings include Impact on carrier distribution: the magnetic field affects the distribution of excess minority carriers within the base region of the solar cell. This distribution is crucial for understanding the efficiency of carrier collection and overall cell performance. Transient dynamics: the transient behavior of carrier generation, recombination and transport processes in the base region is influenced by the magnetic field. This understanding helps in predicting the response time and effectiveness of the solar cell under varying magnetic field strengths. Optimization potential: insights gained from this study suggest potential strategies for optimizing the design and operation of silicon solar cells to enhance their performance in environments where magnetic fields are present. Theoretical framework: the study provides a theoretical framework based on the one-dimensional continuity equation, offering a systematic approach to analyzing and predicting the behavior of solar cells under magnetic field conditions. These findings contribute to advancing the understanding of how external factors such as magnetic fields can impact the operation and efficiency of silicon solar cells, thereby guiding future research and development efforts in photovoltaic technology.
Originality/value
The originality and value of this study lie in its contribution to advancing the understanding of how magnetic fields influence silicon solar cell performance, providing both theoretical insights and potential practical applications in diverse technological contexts.
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Henry Adobor and Enyonam Canice Kudonoo
This paper presents a unique approach to exploring how organizations can be designed to cope with uncertainty and benefit from unexpected events. Our focus is on antifragility, a…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper presents a unique approach to exploring how organizations can be designed to cope with uncertainty and benefit from unexpected events. Our focus is on antifragility, a concept gaining traction in organizational design.
Design/methodology/approach
We adopt a design perspective based on a socio-technical and complex adaptive systems perspective to explore the physical and social elements necessary for creating the landscape and pathways for antifragility. We present a framework that includes human systems and design elements and how these foster self-organization and adaptation.
Findings
Self-organization depends on the context in which it develops. Therefore, designing complex adaptive systems requires developing the landscape and pathways to generate self-organization. The interaction of the social and organizational elements promotes self-organization and antifragility. The design elements of redundancy, loose coupling, modularity and scalability influence the context within which self-organization emerges. Individual and organizational mindfulness, self-management and continuous learning allow for rapid reconfiguration under uncertainty, creating the landscape and pathways for organizations to benefit from unexpected events.
Research limitations/implications
Creating organizations with a focus on deriving benefits, rather than striving to return to the previous state, especially in the face of unforeseen disruptions, represents a fundamental shift in perspective. This contribution is important given the predictions of a world that will increasingly face black swan events. Therefore, preparing organizations for thriving under stress has important implications for theory.
Practical implications
An organization’s ability to create value from stressors is a key advantage. As the goal of any organization is long-term sustainability, those with antifragile capabilities are better positioned for success. Organizations can move beyond mere recovery by using design to create conditions that promote antifragility, as is the case with robustness and resilience. This paper provides a roadmap for organizations to thrive amidst disruptions, offering practical strategies for implementation and equipping the reader with actionable steps to enhance their organization’s adaptability.
Originality/value
Designing organizations to benefit from disruptions represents a significant paradigm shift. The nascent field of understanding how organizations can embody antifragility is of great value. This paper is among the first to offer a design-oriented approach to this concept, adding significant value to the existing body of knowledge. The perspective and insights presented in this research will engage scholars and practitioners in organizational design and management.
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Colin Donaldson, Sascha Kraus, Andreas Kallmuenzer and Cheng-Feng Cheng
This study aims to explore which relational factors are crucial for accelerator-based start-ups to achieve high financial performance and whether innovation levels influence this…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore which relational factors are crucial for accelerator-based start-ups to achieve high financial performance and whether innovation levels influence this relationship. Utilizing fsQCA and drawing from the resource-based view (RBV), we analyze 128 start-ups in a Spanish accelerator, split by innovativeness, to understand the impact of relational and human capital factors on performance.
Design/methodology/approach
The study uses fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to investigate conditions leading to high financial performance among 128 start-ups in a Spanish accelerator, divided by innovativeness. Four key factors are analyzed: social capital, social competence, resource mobilization and entrepreneurial ecosystem support. fsQCA examines complex relationships between these factors and financial performance.
Findings
Relational and human capital factors significantly impact start-up financial performance, varying with innovativeness. Highly innovative start-ups benefit from social competence and networked support, while less innovative but profitable start-ups rely on resource mobilization skills. The study highlights the contingent value of these factors, showing that unique configurations drive financial success.
Research limitations/implications
The paper enhances the RBV in entrepreneurial contexts by highlighting the critical role of relational resources and their configurations. It suggests social competence and networked support are crucial for highly innovative start-ups, while resource mobilization is key for less innovative ones. These findings encourage nuanced theorizing of start-up success strategies, considering varying innovativeness levels and their impact on performance.
Originality/value
This study enhances understanding of the relationship between relational factors and financial performance in accelerator-based start-ups, considering innovation levels. It provides insights into how different configurations of social capital, competence, resource mobilization and ecosystem support lead to success. It underscores the importance of considering the contingent value of relational factors for start-up growth.
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Dwi Mariyono, Annis Nur Alifatul Kamila and Akmal Nur Alif Hidayatullah
This study aims to explore the relationship between global unity and cultural diversity in an interconnected world, examining how globalization influences cultural exchange while…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore the relationship between global unity and cultural diversity in an interconnected world, examining how globalization influences cultural exchange while preserving identities. Using hybrid thematic content analysis (HTCA), it reveals how cross-cultural collaboration can be fostered amid global challenges like climate change, health crises and technology. The research offers insights into integrating global efforts with local cultural nuances to create sustainable solutions. By bridging qualitative and quantitative approaches, it provides new perspectives on harmonizing global interconnectedness with cultural preservation in governance, technological innovation, diplomacy and education.
Design/methodology/approach
This research applied content analysis, thematic analysis and HTCA to examine global unity and cultural diversity. Content analysis highlighted key themes in international frameworks, whereas thematic analysis delved into elements promoting cultural preservation and adaptation. HTCA synthesized these insights, combining content-focused themes with broader cultural, economic and policy perspectives. Data sources included academic literature, international policy documents and case studies from UNESCO and regional cultural policies.
Findings
The findings reveal that while globalization drives global unity, cultural diversity remains crucial for preserving individual identities. Key themes include multiculturalism, cultural exchange, hybridization and resistance to homogenization. While globalization can erode local traditions, it also fosters cultural enrichment, seen in fusion cuisine, multilingualism and ethical fashion. The research identifies strategies for balancing global unity and cultural diversity, such as hybrid approaches to environmental sustainability, integrating cultural insights into global health and inclusive technological innovations like AI and virtual reality. It also highlights the role of institutions like UNESCO in promoting cultural diplomacy and the challenges in balancing global governance with cultural diversity.
Research limitations/implications
This research is limited by its reliance on secondary data from policy documents and literature, without primary data from affected communities or policymakers. Future studies could incorporate interviews and surveys to gain first-hand perspectives. In addition, the geographic focus on documented globalization effects limits broader applicability; more inclusive case studies across diverse cultural contexts are recommended.
Practical implications
The study offers actionable insights for policymakers, educators and cultural leaders to promote inclusive cultural exchange and hybridization strategies. It emphasizes balancing globalization benefits with cultural heritage protection. Practical applications in education, health and technology should consider cultural differences for more inclusive and effective solutions, such as integrating global citizenship and cultural sensitivity in educational policies.
Social implications
The study emphasizes how intercultural understanding and collaboration can enhance social cohesion in multicultural societies. It advocates for celebrating diversity, fostering cultural dialogue and promoting inclusive global policies to build peace and address global issues while maintaining diverse identities.
Originality/value
This study’s originality lies in its methodological triangulation, using HTCA as a novel approach to unify content and thematic insights. By integrating content analysis, thematic analysis and HTCA, this research offers a unique multidimensional analysis of global unity and cultural diversity, revealing how these aspects can coexist within globalization.
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This paper aims to explore sociocultural factors as determinants of entrepreneurial emergence and to examine their relative influence (i.e. the influence of each factor) on…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to explore sociocultural factors as determinants of entrepreneurial emergence and to examine their relative influence (i.e. the influence of each factor) on entrepreneurial emergence.
Design/methodology/approach
A survey design with a questionnaire instrument administered to 250 business owners selected randomly from a cross section of businesses was used. The data were analyzed using the descriptive method, pairwise comparison, Kendall’s W test and Mean Rank Statistics.
Findings
This study showed that the level of influence of sociocultural factors on the decision to own a business by an individual in Africa varies by factor. Family background is the factor that has the highest influence, whereas religious values has the least influence. Altogether, nine most significant factors influence the choice of business ownership in Nigeria and in Africa generally. These include family background, unemployment, family values, inadequate income, job displacement, stock of social capital, role models, social networks and lack of social security, in that order.
Originality/value
Although some scholars may have explored sociocultural factors as determinants of entrepreneurial emergence, there is no study on their relative influence on entrepreneurial emergence, at least not in the context of Africa or Nigeria in particular. This study extends previous studies by examining the relative influence of the factors, using Nigeria as a reference for Africa. A focus on their relative influence is a new perspective on the study of sociocultural factors as determinants of entrepreneurial emergence.
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Marlene S. Neill, Rosalynn A. Vasquez, Sharee L. Broussard and Chris M. Gent
This study aims to examine the impact of the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) certification on the leader development of US diverse practitioners.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine the impact of the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) certification on the leader development of US diverse practitioners.
Design/methodology/approach
The study involved six online focus groups with 64 APRs who identified as diverse practitioners and APR chairs who supported and mentored diverse candidates.
Findings
Diverse practitioners identified specific knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) that they developed through the APR study process, which are consistent with those desired in leaders such as technical, relationship management and conceptual skills. Not only did diverse practitioners become more strategic thinkers and skilled in the public relations planning process, but they also were promoted or hired into management positions. Effective mentors were key to their success. These findings confirm that the APR can be a form of leader development for diverse public relations practitioners that opens doors to management positions. However, employers need to provide instrumental support for diverse practitioners to be successful, such as covering costs associated with the exam, providing study time and supporting their membership in professional associations.
Originality/value
Based on the theoretical framework of self-efficacy and a lifelong learning mindset, the study reveals the value of the APR in preparing diverse practitioners for leadership roles, which can be a resource to address the gap in diverse leaders in the public relations industry.
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