Khurram Sharif, Asif Raza and Amit Das
The purpose of this paper is to understand how young female fashion consumers assessed the facial attractiveness of an advertising model. The study focused on the consumers…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to understand how young female fashion consumers assessed the facial attractiveness of an advertising model. The study focused on the consumers exposed to both local and foreign fashion advertising.
Design/methodology/approach
The study sample consisted of 161 young female (18-30 years old) university students from the State of Qatar. A research questionnaire was designed to assess the perceptions of young Qatari females toward the facial features of a cluster of international fashion models representing a variety of looks. Due to the cultural sensitivity of the research topic, data were collected online using SurveyMonkey. Apart from the key demographics, the research questionnaire captured the respondent’s own self-assessed facial profile, an ideal facial profile, and the facial profile of the most preferred model from a set of choices. The authors analyze the similarities and differences between the three profiles collected from each respondent: self, ideal and choice.
Findings
The findings indicated that a mix of facial features (a blend of classical Arabic looks and contemporary Western looks) is preferred by most respondents. This matches the expectation of consumers exposed to local as well as international fashion advertising.
Practical implications
In developing markets (such as Qatar), preference for fashion models is shaped by a combination of local and foreign advertising influences. Hence, it is likely that hybrid models (i.e. representing a combination of Eastern and Western looks) appeal to young female consumers within these markets. Retailers of fashion clothing and accessories can use this information to select models who maximize the appeal of their brands.
Originality/value
The research sheds light on how judgments about the attractiveness of female models are made by triangulation among the self, the ideal and the selection of models available to choose from. The research provides a window into how young women make judgments of physical attractiveness based on facial features.
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Md. Mahiuddin Sabbir, Tahsin Tabish Khan, Amit Das, Sharmin Akter and Md. Alamgir Hossain
End-of-life electronic products exchange (EEPE) program could be an effective approach to e-waste recycling that requires consumers' participation. Thus, it is highly recommended…
Abstract
Purpose
End-of-life electronic products exchange (EEPE) program could be an effective approach to e-waste recycling that requires consumers' participation. Thus, it is highly recommended to study factors stirring consumer behavior with regard to EEPE programs, which is largely under-explored in the existing literature. Hence, grounding on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and Attitude-Behavior-Context (A-B-C) model, this study attempts to understand the determinants of consumers' EEPE intention by adding contextual and non-cognitive factors to the proposed research model.
Design/methodology/approach
Employing a purposive sampling technique, respondents were drawn from university students and general consumers of electronic products in a developing country. Factor analysis, structural equation modeling (SEM) and SPSS PROCESS were used to analyze the collected data.
Findings
Empirical results confirm that subjective norm has the strongest positive impact on EEPE intention. Following this, attitude toward EEPE and perceived behavioral control play positive mediating roles in determining EEPE intention. Moreover, government initiatives moderate the unsolicited “attitude–intention gap”.
Practical implications
Drawing on this study's outcomes, the study urges to form comprehensive awareness-building campaigns, rules and regulations regarding proper e-waste management, promote “exchange offer” programs and educational programs to encourage EEPE.
Originality/value
This study makes two fresh contributions to the extant literature. First, by coupling the TPB and A-B-C theory, this study showed that both attitude (i.e. attitude toward EEPE) and context (i.e. government initiatives) are essential in eliciting individual-level post-consumption pro-environmental behavior (PEB) (i.e. EEPE). Second, government initiatives elucidate the attitude–intention gap in the reverse logistics context, especially in developing countries.
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– This paper aims to report on the information security behaviors of smartphone users in an affluent economy of the Middle East.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to report on the information security behaviors of smartphone users in an affluent economy of the Middle East.
Design/methodology/approach
A model based on prior research, synthesized from a thorough literature review, is tested using survey data from 500 smartphone users representing three major mobile operating systems.
Findings
The overall level of security behaviors is low. Regression coefficients indicate that the efficacy of security measures and the cost of adopting them are the main factors influencing smartphone security behaviors. At present, smartphone users are more worried about malware and data leakage than targeted information theft.
Research limitations/implications
Threats and counter-measures co-evolve over time, and our findings, which describe the state of smartphone security at the current time, will need to be updated in the future.
Practical implications
Measures to improve security practices of smartphone users are needed urgently. The findings indicate that such measures should be broadly effective and relatively costless for users to implement.
Social implications
Personal smartphones are joining enterprise networks through the acceptance of Bring-Your-Own-Device computing. Users’ laxity about smartphone security thus puts organizations at risk.
Originality/value
The paper highlights the key factors influencing smartphone security and compares the situation for the three leading operating systems in the smartphone market.
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Tulsi Jayakumar, Aarti Punjabi and Jyotsnaa Shah
Part A – to identify the challenges of inducting and nurturing next-gen leaders, to outline the building blocks for the successful induction of the next generation into the family…
Abstract
Learning outcomes
Part A – to identify the challenges of inducting and nurturing next-gen leaders, to outline the building blocks for the successful induction of the next generation into the family business and to spell the importance of mentoring conversations as a tool for successful induction in the family business. Part B – to define the basic tenets of effective communication-goal setting, planning and action using the goals, plans and action framework, to build a “listening” environment through understanding the hearing, understanding, remembering, interpreting, evaluating, and responding mode and to relate the importance of “questioning” in diagnosing a problem and reading both verbal and non-verbal cues in communication.
Case overview/synopsis
The two-part case describes the role of communication amongst young family business scions and a mentor’s role in shaping such communication. Part A traces the induction of Aditya Gandhi, a fourth-generation scion of Gandhi Gems and Jewels, a 110-year old Indian family business dealing in precious gems and jewels. It deals with the challenges of mentoring and successful induction of the next-generation into family business Part B of the case describes the communication between Aditya Gandhi and the proprietor of Gandhi Gems and Jewels’ key client, Ghanshyam Das. It deals with the tenets of effective communication as should be understood by young next-generation family members.
Complexity academic level
The case can be used in an executive programme for owners of family businesses or in an undergraduate or post-graduate programme in general business administration or family business management.
Supplementary materials
Teaching Notes are available for educators only.
Subject code
CSS 11: Strategy.
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Debadyuti Das, Virander Kumar, Amit Kumar Bardhan and Rahul Kumar
The study aims to find out an appropriate volume of power to be procured through long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs), the volume to be sourced from the power exchange…
Abstract
Purpose
The study aims to find out an appropriate volume of power to be procured through long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs), the volume to be sourced from the power exchange through day-ahead and term-ahead options and also a suitable volume to be sold at different points of time within a day, which would finally lead to the optimum cost of power procurement.
Design/methodology/approach
The study has considered a Delhi-based power distribution utility and has collected all relevant data from its archival sources. A stochastic optimization model has been developed to capture the problem of power procurement faced by the distribution utility, which is modelled as a mixed integer linear programming problem. Sensitivity analyses were carried out on the important parameters including hourly demand of power, unit variable cost of power available through PPAs, maximum back-down percentage allowed under PPAs, etc., to investigate their impact on daily cost of power under PPAs, daily cost of power under day-ahead and term-ahead options, daily sales revenue and also the net total daily cost of power procurement.
Findings
The findings include the appropriate volume of power procured from different suppliers through PPAs and from the power exchange under day-ahead and term-ahead options and also the surplus volume of power sold under the day-ahead arrangement. It has also computed the total cost of power purchased under PPAs, the cost of power purchased from the power exchange under day-ahead and term-ahead options and also the revenue generated out of the sale of surplus power under the day-ahead arrangement. In addition, it has also presented the results of sensitivity analyses, which provide rich managerial insights.
Originality/value
The paper makes two significant contributions to the existing body of power procurement literature. First, the stochastic mixed-integer linear programming model helps decision makers in determining the right volume of power to be purchased from different sources. Second, based on the findings of the procurement model, a power procurement framework is developed considering the dimensions of uncertainty in power supply and the cost of power procurement. This power procurement framework would aid managers in making procurement decisions under different scenarios.
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Mahesh Dahal, Amit Sangma, Joy Das and Paulami Ray
The study attempts to examine the impact of mandatory corporate social responsibility (CSR) spending and inclusion of firms into the environment, social and governance (ESG) index…
Abstract
Purpose
The study attempts to examine the impact of mandatory corporate social responsibility (CSR) spending and inclusion of firms into the environment, social and governance (ESG) index of BSE India on the performance of firms constituting firms under the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) 100 Index.
Design/methodology/approach
The stock prices of the firms were collected from the official website of BSE India for a total of 32 firms and the System Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) model was utilized for analyzing the data for the present study.
Findings
The study found that the investors in the Indian market do consider the CSR spending and ESG listing as a factor while framing the investment strategy; however, ESG listing is least preferred. Among the other variables, AGE, DPS, EPS and BVPS have a significant positive bearing on the firm's performance, while SIZE has a significant negative impact on the firm's performance.
Research limitations/implications
Further investigation is needed to understand the factors that influence investment decision-making, including why investors tend to overlook CSR and environmental protection. Future research can identify ways to increase the importance of these factors in investment decision-making. Future research can explore the long-term impact of investing in socially responsible companies, including whether such investments lead to better long-term performance.
Practical implications
There is a need for increased awareness of the importance of CSR among investors. Educational programs and campaigns can be used to inform investors about the potential benefits of considering social responsibility factors in investment decision-making. Companies that prioritize CSR and environmental protection should distinguish themselves from competitors in the eyes of investors. This can lead to higher investment and potentially higher returns for these companies.
Originality/value
Since mandatory CSR expenditure and the launch of the ESG index by the BSE have been introduced in India recently, hardly any study in India has examined the impact of the same on the firm's performance.
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Changwei Pang, Qiong Wang, Yuan Li and Guang Duan
The purpose of this paper is to examine how business model innovation (BMI) mediates the relationship between integrative capability, business strategy and firm performance.
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine how business model innovation (BMI) mediates the relationship between integrative capability, business strategy and firm performance.
Design/methodology/approach
A literature review provides the model and hypotheses. Using a sample of 165 Chinese firms, the authors conduct the examination using a theoretical model and hypotheses following standard analysis methods.
Findings
The results show that BMI positively mediates the relationship between integrative capability and firm performance. Moreover, a differentiation strategy positively moderates the link between BMI and firm performance, while a cost leadership strategy presents a significantly negative moderating effect.
Research limitations/implications
First, the authors test the hypotheses using data from China; thus data from other emerging economies should be tested. Second, the authors use cross-sectional data in this study making it impossible to verify the dynamic developed in the process of BMI; a longitudinal study could provide a more comprehensive understanding. Third, the authors consider one intermediate mechanism to test the relationship of integrative capability and firm performance; additional factors may link integrative capability and firm performance.
Practical implications
The mediating effect of BMI suggests managers should pay more attention to BMI to improve firm performance, and they should understand that BMI’s role varies across different business strategies.
Originality/value
The paper is original in its investigation of the effect of integrative capability and BMI on firm performance using data from China and demonstrates the mediating effect of BMI on the relationship between integrative capability and firm performance.
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Aman Kumar, Amit Shankar, Aqueeb Sohail Shaik, Girish Jain and Areej Malibari
This study investigates organizations' non-adoption intention towards the enterprise metaverse. The innovation resistance theory (IRT) is used as an underpinning theory to examine…
Abstract
Purpose
This study investigates organizations' non-adoption intention towards the enterprise metaverse. The innovation resistance theory (IRT) is used as an underpinning theory to examine the impact of various risks on non-adoption intention towards the enterprise metaverse.
Design/methodology/approach
A total of 294 responses were collected to examine the proposed hypotheses. A structural equation modelling technique was used to investigate the hypotheses using SPSS AMOS and PROCESS MACRO.
Findings
The results of this study reveal that performance, security and psychological risks are significantly associated with non-adoption intention towards enterprise metaverse. Further, distrust significantly meditates the association between performance risk, social risk, technological dependence risk, security risk and psychological risk and non-adoption intention towards enterprise metaverse. Moreover, the results of moderated-mediation hypotheses indicate that the mediating effect of distrust on the association among performance risk, social risk, psychological risk and non-adoption intention towards enterprise metaverse is higher for individuals having high technostress compared to individuals having low technostress.
Originality/value
The study's findings will enrich the metaverse literature. Further, it provides a deeper understanding of enterprise metaverse adoption from a B2B perspective using the underpinnings of IRT. The study helps organizations understand the risks associated with the adoption of the enterprise metaverse.
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Yunhui Wang, Yaqun Yi and Zelong Wei
Drawing on the dynamic managerial capability perspective and the dynamic capability perspective of business model (BM) literature, this paper aims to investigate how top…
Abstract
Purpose
Drawing on the dynamic managerial capability perspective and the dynamic capability perspective of business model (BM) literature, this paper aims to investigate how top management team internal social capital (TISC) promotes BM design and how such effects are moderated by market dynamics (i.e. demand uncertainty and competitive intensity).
Design/methodology/approach
The proposed hypotheses were tested by a questionnaire-based survey. The empirical study was conducted on a sample of 210 firms in China. The model was tested via hierarchical regression analysis.
Findings
TISC has a positive effect on BM efficiency but an inverted U-shaped effect on BM novelty. The effects of TISC on BM efficiency and novelty are contingent on demand uncertainty and competitive intensity in different ways. Specifically, this study finds that demand uncertainty strengthens the inverted U-shaped effect of TISC on BM novelty. This study also finds that competitive intensity strengthens the positive effect of TISC on BM efficiency but weakens the inverted U-shaped effect of TISC on BM novelty.
Originality/value
The conclusion contributes to the dynamic capability perspective of BM literature in two ways. First, it offers a dynamic managerial capability perspective for understanding the antecedents of BM design. It highlights TISC, a root of dynamic managerial capability, as an important internal antecedent of BM design. Second, it provides a more nuanced understanding of the role of TISC in BM design. The findings show the distinct effects of TISC on BM efficiency and novelty. This study also discusses the contingency role market dynamics play in the TISC–BM design relationship.
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Moritz Loock and Fredrik Hacklin
While recent research has referred to a cognitive view on “business modelling,” it remains unclear in specifying the cognitive foundations of how such modelling happens. This…
Abstract
While recent research has referred to a cognitive view on “business modelling,” it remains unclear in specifying the cognitive foundations of how such modelling happens. This paper proposes building on heuristics as models of individual cognition, which have proved effective foundations of adaptive individual and managerial behaviors. By also drawing on gestalt theory to specify principles of modelling as rule-based form giving, we propose business modelling as a managerial cognitive process of configuring heuristics. The paper makes three contributions. First, we introduce heuristics to the business modelling literature and so provide an established theory of adaptive individual behavior that strengthens the cognitive foundations of business modelling. Second, we conceptualize and theorize on the cognitive activity of business modelling as an iterative process of configuring heuristics by applying gestalt principles. Although the literature on business models has referred to the theories of configurations and gestalt, it has been left to this work to make the theoretical linkages between heuristics, gestalt theory and business modelling explicit. Third, our work contributes to the micro-foundations of the cognitive processes underlying business modelling and thus to broader accounts of adaptive managerial behaviors.