Shanshan Shang, Chenhui Du and Jilan Wu
Continuance usage of mobile applications (apps) has attracted much attention from scholars and enterprises, while the extant research mainly focuses on continuance intention. The…
Abstract
Purpose
Continuance usage of mobile applications (apps) has attracted much attention from scholars and enterprises, while the extant research mainly focuses on continuance intention. The inner effect mechanism of the characteristics of apps is still unclear. Under the tenet of continuance usage behaviour, through analysis of characteristics derived from online reviews, this paper aims to establish an effective model and discloses the commonalities and differences between two mainstream apps, which are entertainment and knowledge apps.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors collected reviews of TikTok and Zhihu, which are typical representatives of entertainment and knowledge apps, respectively, from 2018 to 2020. They then derive effect factors and establish the effect model using grounded theory. A deep comparison is then conducted. They analysed the similarities and differences in the general effect model, internal effect mechanism and detailed characteristics of the two types of apps.
Findings
Entertainment app and knowledge apps share the same general effect mechanism; that is, the effect chain of characteristics to perceived value then finally to continuance usage behaviour. However, obvious differences also exist in detailed and specific effects between the two apps.
Originality/value
The present research is among the first to have a deep analysis of the comparison of entertainment apps and knowledge apps under the context of continuance usage behaviour. The findings contribute to understanding continuance usage behaviours. Suggestions are proposed on how to promote apps, which may benefit app managers.
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Jilan Abdalmajid, Ioanna Papasolomou, Demetris Vrontis, Yioula Melanthiou, Alkis Thrassou and Naziyet Uzunboylu
Literature on nation branding is heterogeneous and varies significantly, not only in terminological terms but also in theoretical approaches and practical application. This paper…
Abstract
Purpose
Literature on nation branding is heterogeneous and varies significantly, not only in terminological terms but also in theoretical approaches and practical application. This paper aims to conduct an extensive exploratory study that empirically develops a comprehensive nation brand framework for Palestine, with international applications as well.
Design/methodology/approach
Initially, a conceptual framework for developing a nation brand is theoretically designed. Subsequently, through a methodologically deductive–inductive approach and qualitative means, it tests, adapts and refines the framework based on empirical data collected from key stakeholders, such as government officials, politicians, business people and academics.
Findings
The theoretical part of the research uncovers the extant key models and core concepts, and it identifies several gaps, with the more prominent one being the lack of an integrated and widely adopted framework for developing a nation brand. The research, thus, conclusively builds a holistic strategic framework towards a distinct nation brand for Palestine, with generic/international application and value, also presenting the practical implications of the findings and identifying avenues for further research.
Originality/value
There are varying extant perspectives on the topic, with these different views often reflecting scholars’ and stakeholders’ methodological approaches, perspectives and even deeper ontological beliefs and convictions. This paper is original consequent to its multi-perspective approach, the strength of its theoretical foundation, the extent and methodological approach of its empirical research, the uniqueness of its focus and the comprehensiveness of the framework developed that can also be used as the conceptual cornerstone for testing in other nations branding studies as well.
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The study aims to estimate Green Total Factor Productivity (GTFP) and green efficiency in Jordan.
Abstract
Purpose
The study aims to estimate Green Total Factor Productivity (GTFP) and green efficiency in Jordan.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used the Super-SBM model.
Findings
The study found significant progress in green factor productivity from 2014 to 2022, more significant than the total ordinary productivity. Also, environmental efficiency rebounded to reach its peak in the period from 2020 to 2022, where the efficiency value reached one, which can be attributed to the government's adoption of many policies focusing on using green energy methods in production processes, especially in the use of solar energy and waste recycling, and the use of energy-saving machines, particularly encouraging the use of electric cars.
Originality/value
The primary contribution of this study can be summarized in evaluating the results of growth calculation with the results of the Super-SBM model to calculate green efficiency by identifying appropriate and undesirable outputs. This provides a new perspective in studying GTFP and fills the gap in the theoretical understanding of green development strategy.
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Mazeyar Parvinzadeh Gashti, Rambod Rashidian, Arash Almasian and Ali Badakhshan Zohouri
In recent years, the textile industry has been required to develop new methods and technologies through introduction of some new materials in various processes rather than…
Abstract
Purpose
In recent years, the textile industry has been required to develop new methods and technologies through introduction of some new materials in various processes rather than employing the same conventional chemicals. The aim of this research was to investigate the changes induced on the cotton fibre by the nanoclay treatment using a pre‐treatment method.
Design/methodology/approach
The fibres were dyed with basic and direct dyes after the nanoclay pre‐treatment. Technical measurements were studied including Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV‐visible spectrophotometer, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermal degradation analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), moisture regain measurement (MRM), tensile strength test (TST), reflectance spectroscopy (RS) and fastnesses evaluation.
Findings
The intensity of the major peaks in FTIR spectra of the nanoclay treated sample is in favour of the chemical changes of the cellulose functional groups. Basic dyes showed a higher dyeability on the clay pre‐treated samples compared to raw materials. The results of the colour measurements showed that the more concentration of the clay mineral was used, the darker the colour of the dyed sample was. Some interesting results were obtained in the research.
Research limitations/implications
The nanoclay and a dispersing agent used in the present context were used as received. Besides, the type of the dispersing agent is important for preparation of a colloidal dispersion of nanoclay.
Practical implications
The method developed in this research provides a simple and practical solution for improving the dyeability of cotton with direct and basic dyes.
Originality/value
The method for enhancing the dyeability of cotton is novel and can be used in cotton processing with new properties.