The purpose of this empirical research is to attempt to explore the effect of information security initiatives (ISI) on supply chain performance, considering various intra- and…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of this empirical research is to attempt to explore the effect of information security initiatives (ISI) on supply chain performance, considering various intra- and inter-organization information security aspects that are deemed to have an influence on supply chain operations and performance.
Design/methodology/approach
Based on extant information security management and supply chain security management literature, a conceptual model was developed and validated. A questionnaire survey instrument was developed and administered among supply chain managers to collect data. Data were collected from 197 organizations belonging to various sectors. The study used exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis for data analysis. Further, to test the hypotheses and to fit the theoretical model, structural equation modeling techniques were used.
Findings
Results of this study indicate that ISI, comprising technical, formal and informal security aspects in an intra- and inter-organizational environment, are positively associated with supply chain operations, which, in turn, positively affects supply chain performance.
Research limitations/implications
This study provides the foundation for future research in the management of information security in supply chains. Findings are expected to provide the communities of practice with better information security decision-making in a supply chain context, by clearly formulating technical, formal and informal information security policies for improving supply chain performance.
Originality/value
In today’s global supply chain environment where competition prevails among supply chains, this research is relevant in terms of capability that an organization has to acquire for managing internal and external information security. In that sense, this study contributes to the body of knowledge with an empirical analysis of organizations’ information security management initiatives as a blend of technical, formal and informal security aspects.
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Sateesh V. Shet, Gaurav Raut, Pratima Shet, Padmaja Argade and Agnieszka Piekara
Informal female entrepreneurs in emerging economies operate in challenging business environments. This research examines the competencies of informal female entrepreneurs (IFEs…
Abstract
Purpose
Informal female entrepreneurs in emerging economies operate in challenging business environments. This research examines the competencies of informal female entrepreneurs (IFEs) to explore how they persist because and despite the unique set of challenges they face.
Design/methodology/approach
We undertake a qualitative study focusing on IFE in the Indian context. Using the abilities–motivation–opportunity (AMO) framework as a theoretical lens, we interviewed 14 IFEs to gain insights into their entrepreneurial challenges and understand how they address the challenges.
Findings
The results demonstrate that IFEs are prone to various challenges around the individual level, business challenges on an operating and functional level and other challenges rooted in their business environment. Further, the study sheds light on the competencies of IFEs on three fronts, namely, ability-enhancing competencies, including – technical skills, problem solving, communication and adaptability; motivation-enhancing competencies, including – self-motivation, resilience and optimism and lastly, opportunity-enhancing competencies, including – local-centric approach, networking and resourcefulness.
Research limitations/implications
The study highlights the nuanced settings of informal female entrepreneurship in an emerging economy context. By highlighting the challenges and competency interplay, our study opens novel avenues for the interrelationships to be studied in further detail.
Originality/value
Our study provides close insight into the everyday challenges of IFEs operating in informal economies. Their competencies and perseverance-related attributes contribute to the mainstream entrepreneurship literature, as these entrepreneurs exhibit unique competencies that allow them to thrive in challenging contextual settings. Their willingness to learn new skills, opportunity recognition, motivation and adaptability skills contribute to a better understanding of the phenomenon of informal female entrepreneurship.