Almasdi Syahza, Sri Astuti, Suarman Suarman and Brilliant Asmit
This research was conducted to develop a public education model in an effort to prevent peatland fires in Indonesia.
Abstract
Purpose
This research was conducted to develop a public education model in an effort to prevent peatland fires in Indonesia.
Design/methodology/approach
This research uses qualitative and quantitative data obtained through a participatory rural appraisal approach. The approach taken is group-oriented to collect information from local communities. Field surveys were carried out by selecting locations in areas prone to peatland fires, making observations and discussing with informants at the research location.
Findings
The occurrence of fires in peatlands is caused by intentional and unintentional factors. Intentional factors come from traditional agricultural practices, the low cost of burning peat land, land ownership conflicts and increasing demand for agricultural land. Unintentional factors caused by lack of discipline in the people around the peatlands include throwing cigarette butts carelessly, making campfires and uncontrolled burning of rubbish.
Research limitations/implications
The community played a crucial role in fire prevention through the establishment of the Fire Care Community (Masyarakat Peduli Api or MPA) group. This group adopted a community-based disaster management approach. The community education model consisted of individual and mass approaches. The individual approach comprised direct and indirect communication, technical guidance and face-to-face services to the community. The mass approach included socialization and campaigns, discussion forums, social media content related to fire prevention, restoration actions and incorporating peatland fire mitigation into the local disaster curriculum.
Originality/value
The results of this research provide input for policymakers in efforts to prevent peatland fires in Indonesia. These findings are a model for increasing local community participation through training and guidance.
Details
Keywords
Henny Indrawati, Caska and Suarman
This study aims to analyze the inhibiting factors of small and medium enterprises (SMEs’) technology innovation, supporting institutions for SMEs technology innovation…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to analyze the inhibiting factors of small and medium enterprises (SMEs’) technology innovation, supporting institutions for SMEs technology innovation development, SMEs’ technology innovation development model and strategies for developing SMEs in technology innovation.
Design/methodology/approach
This is a mixed-method research project conducted through a survey of SMEs in Riau Province, Sumatera Indonesia (primarily in the districts of Siak, Kampar and Pelalawan) from April to July 2019. SMEs that have been operating for at least five years were chosen purposively as samples. Based on the requirement, there are 277 entities used in this study. A focus group discussion (FGD) was also conducted to formulate SME models and development strategies in technological innovation. In addition, in-depth interviews and observations were also carried out on technological innovations undertaken by respondents.
Findings
It was found that there are five inhibiting factors of SMEs’ technology innovation: government support, quality of human resources, funding of technological innovation, economic conditions and business partners. The biggest inhibiting factor remains to be the funding of technological innovation. Therefore SMEs provide independent technological innovation costs to develop technological innovations for business sustainability. Supporting institutions for developing SME technology innovation consist of government institutions, private institutions, financial institutions (banks) and nonbank financial institutions. To survive and excel amid competition, SMEs need to pay attention to technological innovation. The business strategy that needs to be done is to improve services to consumers and improve their attitude toward innovation in the implementation and development of SMEs’ businesses.
Research limitations/implications
This research is limited to research on the inhibiting factors for SME technology innovation from the aspect of the production sector. This research has not studied various business fields in the trade, service and digital SME sectors. Future studies can reveal factors inhibiting SME technological innovation, except production aspects and various SME business fields. In addition, this study has not analyzed the cost of technological innovation provided by SMEs. Therefore, future studies could also reveal the large costs of technological innovation provided by SMEs.
Originality/value
This research investigates barriers hindering the SMEs’ technological innovations in Southeast Asia, including Indonesia as a maritime country. It also formulates strategies to reduce the barriers to SME’s technological innovation and contributes to the development of knowledge of technological innovations in SMEs. Moreover, this paper involves investigating government support from a nonfinancial aspect. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this aspect has not been much discussed by studies on innovation at SMEs till now.
Details
Keywords
Maryam Ikram, Syed Muhammad Umer Saleem and Waqas Mehmood
This study aims to determine the impact of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) education quality indicators nexus using teaching and…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to determine the impact of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) education quality indicators nexus using teaching and learning materials, physical infrastructure and facilities, teaching methods and assessment on students’ satisfaction (SS) in Pakistani higher education institutions (HEIs).
Design/methodology/approach
An investigation was conducted using empirical research involving 440 postgraduate students from 11 private universities in Lahore, Punjab Province, Pakistan. Data were collected through an online questionnaire. Participants were selected using a stratified sampling technique, and the data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling.
Findings
The findings proved the existence of a significant and positive relationship between teaching and learning materials, physical infrastructure and facilities, teaching methods and assessment of SS in Pakistani HEIs.
Originality/value
The novelty of this article lies in the fact that it addresses the gap in the existing literature by exploring the impact of teaching and learning materials, physical infrastructure and facilities, teaching methods, assessment and student satisfaction in the context of private higher education in Pakistan.
Details
Keywords
This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.
Abstract
Design
This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.
Purpose
This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting-edge research and case studies.
Findings
Technological innovation in SMEs in Indonesia is hindered by 5 main factors, which are addressed in this briefing.
Originality
The briefing saves busy executives, strategists and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy-to-digest format.
Details
Keywords
Daniel Linus Naila, Felix Adamu Nandonde and Jeremia Makindara
The purpose of this study is to develop and validate a scale for measuring the uptake of process innovations by SMEs in the food industry, from a resource-based view perspective.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this study is to develop and validate a scale for measuring the uptake of process innovations by SMEs in the food industry, from a resource-based view perspective.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on the Resource-Based View (RBV) theory and the existing literature, a measurement scale was proposed. The scale was then empirically validated through a survey of 315 SMEs. Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA) were utilized for scale validation.
Findings
The findings suggest that the uptake of food process innovation can be measured from a resource-based view perspective, but not with respect to all dimensions of RBV. Particularly, the items related to value and inimitability of new food processing equipment and methods were confirmed as valid measures. Nevertheless, the findings do not confirm the validity of measurement items related to the rareness and non-substitutability of new processing methods and equipment.
Research limitations/implications
The main limitation of this study is the lack of consideration beyond the resource-based view perspective. In this respect, it is worth validating this measurement scale using samples beyond the SMEs and in other countries. Furthermore, the statistical analysis is limited to EFA and CFA, which may be prone to the exploratory nature and subjectivity in factor selection.
Practical implications
The main contribution of this study is the development and validation of a scale for measuring the uptake of food process innovations. Hence, firms can utilize this scale to evaluate the efficiency of food process innovations in the quest for maximizing output. Furthermore, researchers can utilize this scale for further explorations and investigations on aspects related to the uptake of food process innovations.
Originality/value
The utilization of Resource Based View (RBV) opens a rather different approach for measuring process innovation from a resource-based view perspective. While the existing literature in the food industry has measured innovation from a general approach, this study offers a different approach by paying specific attention to process innovation from a resource-based view perspective.
Details
Keywords
Dina Elsa, Henny Indrawati and Caska Caska
This paper reviews the literature on digital transformation in SMEs. The general purpose of the paper is to provide an overview of the evolution of digital transformation research…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper reviews the literature on digital transformation in SMEs. The general purpose of the paper is to provide an overview of the evolution of digital transformation research in SMEs globally and propose possible future research directions to advance digital transformation research in SMEs.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used a systematic review of the literature by conducting bibliometric analysis and content analysis. The research protocol included 51 articles collected in the Scopus database in the bibliometric analysis. The Scopus database was searched using Publish or Perish, while Excel and Mendeley assistance were used for quantitative investigation of the sample and bibliographic management. A bibliometric analysis was conducted by combining two software applications, Biblioshiny R Studio and VOSviewer.
Findings
Digital transformation (DT) research on SMEs has increased significantly especially after 2015. Using bibliometric analysis and science mapping, seven main research themes were found, namely digital technologies, dynamic capability, digitalization, small and medium enterprises, big data, manufacturing sector and innovation. Seven future DT research trends were also found, namely digital technology adoption, dynamic capability, adaptive leadership, digital literacy, sustainable innovation, managerial readiness and external support.
Originality/value
Compared to existing reviews, we adopt a broader approach and one that does not focus on specific aspects of DT, but adopts an integrated and holistic approach that provides a comprehensive overview of the DT literature in SMEs. In addition to quantitative analysis through bibliometrics, this study also integrated content analysis to determine future research opportunities and directions.
Research limitations
This paper is based on imported bibliographic data from Scopus. The findings of bibliometric analysis may be affected by the use of certain databases. Therefore, the results depend on the selected databases which may lead to different results. Although the literature review procedure was applied, it is possible that there were missed articles related to the topic discussed. The use of different indicators and depiction methods will also lead to different results. Therefore, future researchers should optimize these aspects.
Details
Keywords
Viktor Ström, Nima Sanandaji, Saeid Esmaeilzadeh and Mouna Esmaeilzadeh
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the potential link between Sweden’s high reliance on equity capital financing among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and its…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the potential link between Sweden’s high reliance on equity capital financing among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and its recognition as the most innovative economy in Europe according to the European Innovation Scoreboard (EIS). This paper examines the idea that the high levels of trust within Swedish society can explain why private equity financing is more prevalent among Swedish SMEs.
Design/methodology/approach
To test these ideas, the authors use data from the Survey on Access to Finance for Enterprises to measure the private equity reliance of firms. The authors also use the EIS to measure the innovation capacity of nations and various aspects of SMEs’ innovation activities. Finally, societal levels of trust are measured through the World Value Survey.
Findings
First, the authors find that European countries with a higher proportion of SMEs relying on equity financing tend to be ranked as more innovative by the EIS. Second, the authors find that the correlation between a nation’s share of SMEs relying on equity financing and their level of innovation activities is marginally stronger for product innovations than for business process innovations. Third, the authors find that countries with higher levels of trust tend to have higher equity capital reliance among SMEs.
Originality/value
This study builds upon previous research on equity capital and SMEs’ innovation activity while introducing new insights into the relationship between societal trust and equity financing.
Details
Keywords
Rizwana Rasheed and Aamir Rashid
Service quality in academics is imperatively crucial. Therefore, the purpose of the current research is to examine the effect of academic service quality factors in higher…
Abstract
Purpose
Service quality in academics is imperatively crucial. Therefore, the purpose of the current research is to examine the effect of academic service quality factors in higher education institutions which mainly focuses on students' satisfaction and the extent of recommending the same institution to other students.
Design/methodology/approach
This research evaluated the effect of service quality on student satisfaction and word of mouth (WOM). Data were collected from 200 respondents from various business schools, and hypotheses were tested through a quantitative method using partial least square-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) with the help of SmartPLS to validate the measurement model.
Findings
The findings of the current research revealed that all three components of service quality including information quality, teaching quality and service efficiency have a significant impact on student satisfaction. Results also indicated that student satisfaction is significantly linked with WOM which means satisfied students spread positive WOM and recommend the same institution to other students.
Originality/value
This research provides an extension towards the body of knowledge on the issue, which will be used in future detailed and critical examinations. The focus of the research was on SERVQUAL and how, when and why business schools may spot possible applications that can have an influence on their admissions by WOM.
Details
Keywords
Almasdi Syahza, Djaimi Backe and Brilliant Asmit
This study aims to investigate the pattern and sequence growth or changes in formulating policy strategy.
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to investigate the pattern and sequence growth or changes in formulating policy strategy.
Design/methodology/approach
In order to get an accurate information, in this study using rapid rural appraisal method (RRA). RRA is a method with participatory approach to obtain data/information and assessments, generally in the field in a relatively short time.
Findings
The result of index multiplier effect analysis in the rubber development region in 2010 was 1.83. In 2014 it dropped to 0.65. The conditions show decline in the rubber farming in the countryside. Natural rubber and its derivatives are believed to spur regional economic growth and be able to improve income distribution and poverty alleviation through employment. Institutional arrangement with the concept of natural rubber farming sustainability-based natural rubber (ABKA) provides two effects: first, the direct effect, i.e. the concept of ABKA provides direct benefits to the parties involved in the business. Second, indirect effects, namely, the concept of ABKA, provides benefits to the parties who are not directly involved in the company.
Originality/value
Originality of this paper shows that a participatory approach used in this research is an RRA and the location of the research is Riau, Indonesia, both of which have not been studied earlier.
Details
Keywords
Deoclécio Junior Cardoso da Silva, Guilherme Paraol de Matos, Artur Roberto de Oliveira Gibbon, Claudimar Pereira da Veiga, Clarissa Stefani Teixeira, Luis Felipe Dias Lopes and Josep Miquel Pique
This research investigates the barriers impeding innovation within small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Brazil, exploring 54 innovation-related barriers categorized into…
Abstract
Purpose
This research investigates the barriers impeding innovation within small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Brazil, exploring 54 innovation-related barriers categorized into six distinct groups to offer substantial insights and analyses pertinent to the decision-makers, researchers and SMEs.
Design/methodology/approach
This research employed a mixed quantitative and exploratory approach, utilizing fuzzy Delphi, fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) methods. The fuzzy Delphi method confirmed the categories and barriers through quantitative analysis, the fuzzy AHP ranked the validated obstacles and the fuzzy DEMATEL method identified causal connections among the top-priority barriers.
Findings
Out of 54 barriers, 23 significantly impacted SMEs. The “Financing and Financial” category was the most significant barrier, with “Access to Financing” being the most critical impediment. The barrier with the most influence was “Instability of Fiscal Policies,” and the highest causal priority was “Survival of the Priority Business,” identifying the government’s unstable fiscal policy as the principal barrier confronting SMEs in Brazil.
Originality/value
The primary challenges for Brazilian SMEs center on financing, fiscal policies and maintaining ongoing operations. By addressing these barriers and fostering a resilient business environment, SMEs’ innovation capabilities and competitiveness can be enhanced, serving as key drivers for sustainable economic growth in fluctuating economic conditions. This study contributes to the literature by highlighting and validating the main barriers to SME innovation, providing highly relevant information about the innovation process.