Sarmad Ali, Adalberto Rangone and Gregorio Martín-de Castro
This study aims to analyze the moderating role of debt financing in the relationship between intellectual capital (IC) and small and medium enterprise (SME) performance in…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to analyze the moderating role of debt financing in the relationship between intellectual capital (IC) and small and medium enterprise (SME) performance in high-tech and low-tech industries.
Design/methodology/approach
This longitudinal study uses a balanced panel sample of 7,293 (3,563 high-tech and 3,730 low-tech) SMEs in Southwestern European countries from 2013 to 2020. The data are analyzed using a fixed-effect model as baseline estimation, and a generalized method of moments estimation is used for robustness checks.
Findings
The results show strong positive effects of human capital (HC) and structural capital (SC) and a weak effect of capital employed (CE), on the performance of high-tech SMEs. Debt financing is negatively and significantly associated with SME performance, and the moderating effect of debt financing is more significant in low-tech industries. Specifically, debt financing accentuates (attenuates) the positive effect of HC (SC and CE) on the performance of low-tech SMEs.
Practical implications
This study offers a valuable framework for managers and policymakers when considering the role of debt financing in the IC components – SME performance relationship in distinctive industrial environments.
Originality/value
This study provides new insights into the close and complex relationships between IC components, debt financing and SME performance.
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This study delineates the factors impacting the motivation and job satisfaction of humanitarian logisticians. This study aims to explore their motivations for entering the sector…
Abstract
Purpose
This study delineates the factors impacting the motivation and job satisfaction of humanitarian logisticians. This study aims to explore their motivations for entering the sector and the reasons for persisting despite the challenges.
Design/methodology/approach
Using an exploratory research design, data were gathered through online semi-structured questionnaires distributed to international and national non-governmental organisations (NGOs), UN agencies, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the logistics cluster and the Humanitarian Logistics Association.
Findings
This study reveals that humanitarian organisations, along with their policies, culture and practices, significantly influence staff well-being. Altruistic motives drive logisticians to support those in need, aligning with their moral standards. However, job satisfaction declines due to issues such as management practices, unfairness, bureaucracy and other factors affecting work-life balance.
Practical implications
These findings offer insights for humanitarian organisations to address the challenges faced by logisticians and enhance their well-being. Understanding the issues before, during and after deployment is crucial for organisational focus. Representatives from some NGOs expressed optimism about the usefulness of this data during the collection process.
Originality/value
This research pioneers an examination of the motivation and satisfaction of humanitarian logisticians, contributing to the existing body of knowledge on human resources in the non-profit sector.
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Talshyn Tokyzhanova and Susanne Durst
The purpose of this systematic literature review (SLR) is to examine the theoretical landscape of knowledge hiding (KH) research, identifies prevailing theories, the different…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this systematic literature review (SLR) is to examine the theoretical landscape of knowledge hiding (KH) research, identifies prevailing theories, the different ways KH is understood within these theories and the underlying assumptions that shape these views. Based on this, ideas for further research are derived to advance the theoretical basis of KH studies.
Design/methodology/approach
Using a theory-based SLR, the authors analysed 170 scientific papers from Scopus and Web of Science. This involved thematic analysis to categorise theories frequently applied in KH research and a detailed examination to link core assumptions to these theoretical perspectives.
Findings
The analysis revealed a reliance on 86 distinct theories, with a notable emphasis on social exchange theory and conservation of resources theory. KH is predominantly conceptualised as a negative, objective, reactive and relational behaviour rooted in social reciprocity and resource conservation. The review uncovers the multifaceted nature of KH, challenging the field to incorporate broader theoretical views that encompass positive aspects, subjective experiences, strategic intentions and non-relational determinants of KH.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to systematically map and analyse the theoretical underpinnings of KH research. It offers a unique contribution by categorising the diverse theories applied in KH studies and explicitly linking these theories to their inherent assumptions about KH. This approach provides a comprehensive overview that not only identifies gaps in the current research landscape but also proposes alternative theoretical perspectives for exploring KH, thereby setting a new direction for future studies in this field.