Marco Pretorius and Judy van Biljon
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the implications of usability and learnability in learning management systems (LMS) by considering the experiences of information and…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate the implications of usability and learnability in learning management systems (LMS) by considering the experiences of information and communications technology (ICT) experts and non‐experts in using the LMS of an open‐distance university.
Design/methodology/approach
The paper uses task‐based usability testing augmented by eye tracking, post‐test questionnaires and interviews; and data captured by video recordings, eye tracking, post‐test questionnaires and interviews.
Findings
Usability is critical in LMS where students’ ICT skills vary. The learnability of the LMS was high and providing assistance for first‐time users to get past the critical errors, rather than redesigning systems to accommodate low ICT skills, should be considered. Designing an LMS for novices may lead to a less efficient design for regular users.
Research limitations/implications
Usability testing is limited to the LMS of one open‐distance university. ICT skills are identified as a determinant of LMS usability.
Practical implications
This paper highlights the effect of ICT skills on the usability of LMSs and eventually learning. ICT skills may be an important factor in inhibiting the learning of students from developing communities. If ICT literacy is not recognised and dealt with, the lack of ICT skills may undermine the efforts to use e‐learning in bridging the digital divide.
Originality/value
The effect of ICT skills on the usability of LMSs has not been researched in the context of distance education.
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Željko Stević, Çağlar Karamaşa, Ezgi Demir and Selçuk Korucuk
Forests are negatively affected from rapid world population increase and industrialization that create intense pressures on natural resources and the possibility of an achieving…
Abstract
Purpose
Forests are negatively affected from rapid world population increase and industrialization that create intense pressures on natural resources and the possibility of an achieving circular economy. Forests can be considered as essential resources for providing sustainable society and meeting the requirements of future generations and circular economy. Therefore sustainable production tools as part of circular economy can be handled as one of the basic indicators for achieving circular economy. Accordingly the main purpose of this study is developing a novel rough – fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making model (MCDM) for evaluation sustainable production for forestry firms in Eastern Black Sea Region.
Design/methodology/approach
For determining 18 criteria weights a novel Rough PIPRECIA (PIvot Pairwise RElative Criteria Importance Assessment) method is developed. Eight decision-makers (DMs) participated in the research, and to obtain group rough decision matrix, rough Dombi weighted geometric averaging (RNDWGA) operator has been applied. For evaluation forestry firms fuzzy MARCOS (Measurement of alternatives and ranking according to COmpromise solution) method was utilized.
Findings
After application developed model the fourth alternative was found as the best. Sensitivity analysis and comparison were made to present the applicability of this method.
Originality/value
Development of novel integrated Rough PIPRECIA-Fuzzy MARCOS model with emphasis on developing new Rough PIPRECIA method.
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Gautam Srivastava, Surajit Bag, Muhammad Sabbir Rahman, Jan Harm Christiaan Pretorius and Mohammad Osman Gani
The negative influence of gamification on online communities has received little attention in the available literature. The study examines the adverse effects of gamification…
Abstract
Purpose
The negative influence of gamification on online communities has received little attention in the available literature. The study examines the adverse effects of gamification during engaging in online communities.
Design/methodology/approach
Gap-spotting methods were used to develop the research questions, followed by model development using the social exchange and social-network theories. Data were collected from 429 samples. The study applied partial least squares structural equation modeling to test the research hypotheses followed by ANN application.
Findings
The study identified five factors related to gamification that have a significant adverse effect on the mental and emotional well-being of the users. Furthermore, the results of PLS-SEM were then compared through an artificial neural network (ANN) analytic process, revealing consistency for the model. This research presents a theoretical contribution by providing critical insights into online gamers' mental and emotional health. It implies that gamification can even bring mental and emotional disturbance. The resulting situation might lead to undesirable social consequences.
Practical implications
The result highlights the managerial and social relevance from the perspective of a developing country. As respondents are becoming more engrossed in online gaming, managers and decision-makers need to take preventive measures to overcome the dark side of online gaming.
Originality/value
The present study shows that the dark side of gamification has some adverse effects on human mental and emotional health. The study's findings can be used to improve gamification strategies while engaging online communities.
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Mario Tani, Ciro Troise, Paola De Bernardi and Tian Han
Additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, also known as three-dimensional printing (3DP), is a technological breakthrough that have the potential to disrupt the traditional…
Abstract
Purpose
Additive manufacturing (AM) technologies, also known as three-dimensional printing (3DP), is a technological breakthrough that have the potential to disrupt the traditional operations of supply chains. They open the way to a supply chains innovation that can significantly benefit hospitals and health-related organizations in dealing with crises or unexpected events in a faster and more flexible way. In this study the authors identify the boundary of this potential support.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors adopt a case study approach to understand the dynamics behind a well-known best practice to identify the main opportunities and the main pitfalls that AM may pose to health-related organizations wanting to leverage them.
Findings
The case highlights that it is possible to increase hospital flexibility using AM and that by leveraging the Internet it is possible to spread the benefits faster than what it would be normally possible using traditional supply chain processes. At the same time the case highlights that leveraging these technologies needs buy-in from all the relevant stakeholders.
Originality/value
The paper is one of the first, to the best of the authors' knowledge, to highlight the main opportunities and difficulties of implementing 3DP technologies in hospital supply chain management.
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Brighton Tshuma, Herman Steyn and Cornelis Cristo van Waveren
This article describes advances in the study of knowledge transfer (KT) in project-based organizations (PBOs). Project management offices (PMOs) have both a moderation role and a…
Abstract
Purpose
This article describes advances in the study of knowledge transfer (KT) in project-based organizations (PBOs). Project management offices (PMOs) have both a moderation role and a mediation role to play in KT between projects. In order to improve KT between projects, this paper explores the mediation role of the PMO in the transfer of knowledge with different levels of articulability. The aim is to improve the usability of transferred knowledge.
Design/methodology/approach
The case study method was used to investigate KT in five-divisional PMOs within a multinational engineering and project management PBO. Fifteen semi-structured interviews were conducted and the results were analysed using ATLAS.Ti (a computer-aided qualitative data analysis software).
Findings
The findings show that it is the way in which the PMO structures knowledge management (KM) infrastructure and processes, which determines the success of its mediation role in the transfer of tacit and explicit knowledge between projects. The articulability of knowledge influences the PMO's mediation role and the PMO's mediation role in turn improves the usability of knowledge, thereby creating a conducive environment for a competitive advantage.
Originality/value
This study offers a framework to assist scholars and practitioners to understand the mediation role of the PMO in the transfer of knowledge with different levels of articulability within the projects environment. Such understanding can improve the usability of transferred knowledge, thereby creating a competitive edge for a PBO. The study shows that the PMO can be used as an instrument for KT between projects, a theme that was not found in literature. The paper thus offers new empirical information.
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Ting Zheng, Marco Ardolino, Andrea Bacchetti and Marco Perona
This paper has two objectives: first, to investigate the state-of-the-art of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) adoption in Italian manufacturing firms and, second, to understand variations in…
Abstract
Purpose
This paper has two objectives: first, to investigate the state-of-the-art of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) adoption in Italian manufacturing firms and, second, to understand variations in technologies implemented and business functions involved, benefits perceived, and obstacles encountered in I4.0 implementation over a three-year period.
Design/methodology/approach
The approach adopted in this research is descriptive, nesting longitudinal features. The paper presents a descriptive survey of 102 Italian manufacturing companies. The authors also evaluated non-response biases. The longitudinal approach was achieved by comparing the responses of the 40 sub-samples in common with a second similar survey launched three years prior, which aimed to identify patterns of evolution in the adoption of the I4.0 paradigm.
Findings
Survey findings demonstrate that Italian manufacturing companies still have limited awareness of I4.0 technologies, and the adoption of I4.0 technologies differs per technology. Company size and information system coverage level are the two factors that impact the company's technology adoption level. The comparative study shows that knowledge and adoption increase in a three-year interval with an unbalanced involvement of business functions regarding the I4.0 transformation. Indeed, companies are still seeking I4.0 solutions to reduce costs and lead times primarily, and the benefits perceived by companies are shown to be related to the number of I4.0 technologies in use. Finally, when companies put the I4.0 technologies into practice, competence is constantly considered the most significant barrier.
Research limitations/implications
This paper aims at conducting a thorough investigation into the development of I4.0 adoption in manufacturing companies. The main limitation of this study concerns the limited number of subjects involved in the longitudinal study (40) and the focus on a limited geographical area (Italy). In addition, more I4.0 technologies could also be incorporated into the survey protocol to gain further insight into I4.0 development.
Originality/value
The authors provide one of the first attempts to assess the variations of I4.0 implementation concerning technology adoption, business function involvement, and the alteration of benefits and obstacles. Several studies presented in the literature highlight the lack of longitudinal studies investigating the development of the I4.0 paradigm in a specific manufacturing context: this paper is the attempt at filling this gap.
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Tarlan Ahmadov, Susanne Durst, Lilian Albornoz Mendoza and Khusbu Rahman
This study aims to explore the interplay between regulatory, normative and cultural-cognitive factors in the context of sustainability-driven organisational change in Mexican…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to explore the interplay between regulatory, normative and cultural-cognitive factors in the context of sustainability-driven organisational change in Mexican small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Design/methodology/approach
Using qualitative research methods, data were collected through interviews with key stakeholders from eight SMEs in Mexico. Thematic analysis was conducted to explore how regulatory, normative and cultural-cognitive forces influence sustainability initiatives within these organisations.
Findings
The findings reveal a dynamic relationship between regulatory frameworks and broader societal norms, with SMEs strategically aligning with evolving expectations to drive sustainability. Influenced by consumer preferences, normative forces play a pivotal role in shaping internal and external organisational norms. Cultural-cognitive forces, including organisational values and leadership practices, further reinforce this interplay, highlighting the importance of organisational culture in driving sustainable practices.
Research limitations/implications
This study contributes to understanding institutional dynamics driving sustainability initiatives among SMEs, particularly in the Mexican context. Explaining the complex interactions among regulatory, normative and cultural-cognitive forces offers a holistic framework for comprehending the complexities of sustainability-driven organisational change.
Practical implications
The findings provide practical insights for SMEs seeking to navigate sustainability initiatives. Emphasising the proactive role of regulatory compliance, fostering a culture of sustainability and leveraging collaborative opportunities within industries are recommended strategies for driving meaningful organisational change towards sustainability.
Originality/value
This study’s value lies in its development of a conceptual framework illustrating the complex interactions among regulatory, normative and cultural-cognitive forces driving sustainability-driven organisational change in Mexican SMEs. Elucidating these dynamics provides a nuanced understanding of how these forces intertwine, offering valuable insights for navigating sustainability initiatives for SMEs in Mexico.
Propósito
Este estudio explora la interacción entre factores regulatorios, normativos y cultural-cognitivos en el contexto del cambio organizacional impulsado por la sostenibilidad en las pequeñas y medianas empresas mexicanas.
Metodología
Utilizando métodos de investigación cualitativa, se recopilaron datos a través de entrevistas con partes interesadas clave de ocho PYMES en México. Se llevó a cabo un análisis temático para explorar cómo las fuerzas regulatorias, normativas y cultural-cognitivas influyen en las iniciativas de sostenibilidad dentro de estas organizaciones.
Resultados
Los resultados revelan una relación dinámica entre los marcos regulatorios y las normas sociales más amplias, con las PYMES alineándose estratégicamente con las expectativas cambiantes para impulsar la sostenibilidad. Influenciadas por las preferencias de los consumidores, las fuerzas normativas desempeñan un papel fundamental en la formación de normas organizacionales internas y externas. Las fuerzas cultural-cognitivas, incluidas los valores organizacionales y las prácticas de liderazgo, refuerzan aún más esta interacción, destacando la importancia de la cultura organizacional en el impulso de prácticas sostenibles.
Limitaciones/implicaciones de la investigación
Este estudio contribuye a la comprensión de las dinámicas institucionales que impulsan las iniciativas de sostenibilidad entre las PYMES, particularmente en el contexto mexicano. Explicar las complejas interacciones entre fuerzas regulatorias, normativas y cultural-cognitivas ofrece un marco holístico para comprender las complejidades del cambio organizacional impulsado por la sostenibilidad.
Originalidad/valor
El valor de este estudio radica en el desarrollo de un marco conceptual que ilustra las complejas interacciones entre fuerzas regulatorias, normativas y cultural-cognitivas que impulsan el cambio organizacional impulsado por la sostenibilidad en las PYMES mexicanas. Elucidar estas dinámicas proporciona una comprensión matizada de cómo estas fuerzas se entrelazan, ofreciendo valiosas ideas para navegar iniciativas de sostenibilidad para las PYMES en México.
Implicaciones prácticas
Los hallazgos proporcionan ideas prácticas para las PYMES que buscan navegar las iniciativas de sostenibilidad. Se recomiendan estrategias como enfatizar el papel proactivo del cumplimiento regulatorio, fomentar una cultura de sostenibilidad y aprovechar las oportunidades de colaboración dentro de las industrias para impulsar un cambio organizacional significativo hacia la sostenibilidad.
Propósito
Este estudo explora a interação entre fatores regulatórios, normativos e cultural-cognitivos no contexto da mudança organizacional impulsionada pela sustentabilidade em pequenas e médias empresas mexicanas.
Metodologia
Utilizando métodos de pesquisa qualitativa, os dados foram coletados por meio de entrevistas com partes interessadas de oito PMEs no México. Foi realizada uma análise temática para explorar como as forças regulatórias, normativas e cultural-cognitivas influenciam as iniciativas de sustentabilidade dentro dessas organizações.
Resultados
Os resultados revelam uma relação dinâmica entre as estruturas regulatórias e as normas sociais mais amplas, com as PMEs alinhando-se estrategicamente às expectativas em evolução para impulsionar a sustentabilidade. Influenciadas pelas preferências dos consumidores, as forças normativas desempenham um papel crucial na formação de normas organizacionais internas e externas. As forças cultural-cognitivas, incluindo valores organizacionais e práticas de liderança, reforçam ainda mais essa interação, destacando a importância da cultura organizacional na promoção de práticas sustentáveis.
Limitações/implicações da pesquisa
Este estudo contribui para a compreensão das dinâmicas institucionais que impulsionam iniciativas de sustentabilidade entre as PMEs, particularmente no contexto mexicano. Explicar as complexas interações entre forças regulatórias, normativas e cultural-cognitivas oferece uma estrutura holística para compreender as complexidades da mudança organizacional impulsionada pela sustentabilidade.
Implicações práticas
Os resultados fornecem insights práticos para PMEs que buscam navegar em iniciativas de sustentabilidade. Recomenda-se enfatizar o papel proativo do cumprimento regulatório, fomentar uma cultura de sustentabilidade e aproveitar as oportunidades de colaboração dentro das indústrias como estratégias para impulsionar uma mudança organizacional significativa em direção à sustentabilidade.
Originalidade/valor
O valor deste estudo reside no desenvolvimento de um quadro conceitual que ilustra as complexas interações entre forças regulatórias, normativas e cultural-cognitivas que impulsionam a mudança organizacional impulsionada pela sustentabilidade nas PMEs mexicanas. Elucidar essas dinâmicas fornece uma compreensão diferenciada de como essas forças se entrelaçam, oferecendo insights valiosos para PMEs no México.
Details
Keywords
- Sustainability
- Small and medium-sized enterprises
- Institutional forces
- Institutional theory
- Mexico
- Sostenibilidad
- Pequeñas y Medianas Empresas (PYMEs)
- Fuerzas Institucionales
- Teoría Institucional
- México
- Palavras-chave: Sustentabilidade
- Pequenas e Médias Empresas (PMEs)
- Forças Institucionais
- Teoria Institucional
- México
Raysa Geaquinto Rocha, Slimane Ed-Dafali and Nitika Sharma
This study investigates the interactions between entrepreneurial orientation, strategic agility and corporate social responsibility (CSR) in influencing sustained competitive…
Abstract
Purpose
This study investigates the interactions between entrepreneurial orientation, strategic agility and corporate social responsibility (CSR) in influencing sustained competitive advantage in Moroccan small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Additionally, it analyzed the influence of competitive intensity, firm size and age on attaining sustained competitive advantage.
Design/methodology/approach
We employed a dual approach to analyze 300 Moroccan SMEs, joining partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and necessary condition analysis (NCA). PLS-SEM was utilized to maximize the explained variance of endogenous constructs and handle mediation effects, aligning with the study’s explanatory purpose. The NCA was used to identify necessary conditions for sustained competitive advantage by examining the extent to which the conditions (i.e. entrepreneurial orientation, strategic agility and CSR) are present in all cases where sustained competitive advantage is present.
Findings
The PLS-SEM analysis found that entrepreneurial orientation positively influences sustained competitive advantage and CSR and strategic agility partially mediates the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and sustained competitive advantage and between entrepreneurial orientation and CSR. The NCA results imply that CSR, entrepreneurial orientation and strategic agility have small but significant effect sizes, indicating they are necessary conditions for achieving higher levels of sustained competitive advantage. Additionally, firm age and size are not necessary conditions.
Originality/value
This study provides a more comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurial orientation influencing sustained competitive advantage in SMEs. It challenges previous beliefs regarding the impact of CSR on sustained competitive advantage, particularly in the Moroccan SME context. Contrary to expectations, the findings indicate that CSR does not significantly impact sustained competitive advantage or mediate the relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and sustained competitive advantage. The NCA results further develop these findings by revealing that CSR is a necessary condition only for achieving upper levels of sustained competitive advantage in Moroccan SMEs.