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Volume 15
Issue 9
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Adm. Sci., Volume 15, Issue 9 (September 2025) – 45 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): This study explores whether gender-specific accelerator programs influence early-stage investors’ perceptions and funding decisions. Using experimental evidence, we investigate the signaling effects these programs create for female-led ventures seeking angel capital. Our findings reveal that participation in such programs can shape how investors evaluate startups, potentially enhancing access to critical early funding opportunities. The results contribute to the ongoing debate on the effectiveness of targeted support initiatives for women entrepreneurs, offering valuable insights for policymakers, investors, and program designers. View this paper
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17 pages, 1890 KB  
Review
Mapping Research Trends on Quality in Electronic Services: A Scoping Review
by Omar Yaakoubi, Yassir El Guenuni, Nisrine Srainy, Imane Iraqi and Omar Boubker
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 373; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090373 - 22 Sep 2025
Viewed by 609
Abstract
Since the 20th century, quality has become a major strategic concern for both researchers and organizations, serving as a lever for performance and a key factor of differentiation in an increasingly digital environment. However, despite the development of e-government services, the exploration and [...] Read more.
Since the 20th century, quality has become a major strategic concern for both researchers and organizations, serving as a lever for performance and a key factor of differentiation in an increasingly digital environment. However, despite the development of e-government services, the exploration and evaluation of their success, particularly concerning civil servants, remains limited. The implications suggest that for the success of such systems, governments must prioritize satisfaction and trust for the users in their technology strategies. This paper presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis, based on the PRISMA model, focusing on the relationship between quality and electronic services (e-services). Using the Scopus database, 626 articles were initially identified, of which 204 were selected following strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. Covering the period from 2014 to 2024, the analysis highlights publication trends, journal distribution, author contributions, and keyword frequency. Special attention was given to 17 key publications, allowing for an in-depth exploration of the dynamics between perceived quality and the performance of e-services, using the VOSviewer tool. The findings reveal a strong interdependence between quality dimensions and the development of electronic services, particularly through technologies such as automation, intelligent interfaces, and interactive platforms. These elements play a crucial role in enhancing user experience, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency. Full article
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16 pages, 397 KB  
Article
The Importance of Ethics in Organisations, Their Leaders, and Sustainability
by Rui Caldeira and Alfonso Infante-Moro
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 372; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090372 - 19 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1027
Abstract
In modern organisations, ethical leadership has emerged as a key driver of sustainability, shaping both employee behaviour and long-term organisational performance. This study investigates the mechanisms through which ethical leadership fosters organisational sustainability, with a focus on the mediating role of organisational commitment. [...] Read more.
In modern organisations, ethical leadership has emerged as a key driver of sustainability, shaping both employee behaviour and long-term organisational performance. This study investigates the mechanisms through which ethical leadership fosters organisational sustainability, with a focus on the mediating role of organisational commitment. A quantitative, cross-sectional survey was conducted in mainland Portugal between January 2024 and January 2025 with a sample of 285 employees from medium and large companies (48% male, 52% female). Ethical leadership was measured with the 10-item Ethical Leadership Scale (α = 0.94), organisational commitment with a 7-item validated scale (α = 0.91), and organisational sustainability with a 12-item scale capturing ethical climate and voluntary pro-environmental behaviours (α = 0.93). Data were analysed using structural equation modelling with maximum likelihood estimation and bootstrapping. Results support the hypothesised model, showing that ethical leadership positively predicts organisational commitment (β = 0.62, SE = 0.07, p < 0.001, 95% CI [0.48, 0.75]) and organisational sustainability indirectly through commitment (indirect effect β = 0.31, SE = 0.06, p < 0.001, 95% CI [0.20, 0.43]). Direct effects of ethical leadership on sustainability were weaker and non-significant once the mediator was included, confirming the centrality of commitment. Model fit indices indicated strong adequacy (CFI = 0.962, TLI = 0.954, RMSEA = 0.048, SRMR = 0.041). Theoretically, the findings reinforce the integration of ethical leadership theory with sustainability research, clarifying the role of commitment as a mediating mechanism. Practically, the study suggests that fostering ethical leadership behaviours—fair decision-making, role modelling, and integrity—can strengthen employee commitment, which in turn drives sustainable organisational practices. This highlights the importance of leadership development programmes centred on ethics as a strategic lever for long-term sustainability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Leadership and Employee Well-Being: Fostering a Healthy Work Environment)
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57 pages, 1307 KB  
Systematic Review
From Brochures to Bytes: Destination Branding through Social, Mobile, and AI—A Systematic Narrative Review with Meta-Analysis
by Chryssoula Chatzigeorgiou, Evangelos Christou and Ioanna Simeli
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 371; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090371 - 19 Sep 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2429
Abstract
Digital transformation has re-engineered tourism marketing and how destination branding competes for tourist attention, yet scholarship offers little systematic quantification of these changes. Drawing on 160 peer-reviewed studies published between 1990 and 2025, we combine grounded-theory thematic synthesis with a random-effect meta-analysis of [...] Read more.
Digital transformation has re-engineered tourism marketing and how destination branding competes for tourist attention, yet scholarship offers little systematic quantification of these changes. Drawing on 160 peer-reviewed studies published between 1990 and 2025, we combine grounded-theory thematic synthesis with a random-effect meta-analysis of 60 datasets to trace branding performance across five technological eras (pre-Internet and brochure era: to mid-1990s; Web 1.0: 1995–2004; Web 2.0: 2004–2013; mobile first: 2013–2020; AI-XR: 2020–2025). Results reveal three structural shifts: (i) dialogic engagement replaces one-way promotion, (ii) credibility migrates to user-generated content, and (iii) artificial intelligence–driven personalisation reconfigures relevance, while mobile and virtual reality marketing extend immersion. Meta-analytic estimates show the strongest gains for engagement intentions (g = 0.57), followed by brand awareness (g = 0.46) and image (g = 0.41). Other equity dimensions (attitudes, loyalty, perceived quality) also improved on average, but to a lesser degree. Visual, UGC-rich, and influencer posts on highly interactive platforms consistently outperform brochure-style content, while robustness checks (fail-safe N, funnel symmetry, leave-one-out) confirm stability. We conclude that digital tools amplify, rather than replace, co-creation, credibility, and context. By fusing historical narrative with statistical certainty, the study delivers a data-anchored roadmap for destination marketers, researchers, and policymakers preparing for the AI-mediated decade ahead. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Scrutiny in Tourism Destination Management)
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40 pages, 2178 KB  
Systematic Review
Mapping Gender Pay Disparities in Chinese Finance: A Systematic Literature and Bibliometric Review
by Yunhao He and Marcus V. Goncalves
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 370; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090370 - 18 Sep 2025
Viewed by 806
Abstract
Despite growing global concern, the gender pay gap (GPG) within China’s financial sector remains underexplored through systematic, data-driven approaches. This study presents one of the few, if not the only, systematic literature review (SLR) and bibliometric analyses focused on the GPG in this [...] Read more.
Despite growing global concern, the gender pay gap (GPG) within China’s financial sector remains underexplored through systematic, data-driven approaches. This study presents one of the few, if not the only, systematic literature review (SLR) and bibliometric analyses focused on the GPG in this context, aiming to map the intellectual landscape, thematic evolution, and policy relevance of the field. Peer-reviewed English-language articles published between 1975 and 2025 were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection, enabling international benchmarking and citation mapping. A three-tiered screening protocol narrowed 209 initial records to 64 eligible studies. Bibliometric tools, including VOSviewer and R Bibliometrix, were applied to visualize co-authorship and co-citation networks. The analysis revealed three dominant research clusters—salary transparency, organizational barriers, and leadership gaps—while identifying emerging intersections with FinTech, ESG, and intersectionality frameworks. Despite these trends, the findings indicate limited citation influence, thematic fragmentation, and weak scholarly integration. While the exclusion of Chinese-language literature is a limitation, it is justified for comparative consistency. Overall, this study demonstrates how combining bibliometrics with policy analysis uncovers underexplored “invisible metrics” that sustain gender disparities. It provides a foundational evidence base for future academic inquiry and actionable reforms aligned with SDG 5 and ESG mandates. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women Financial Inclusion and Entrepreneurship Development)
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25 pages, 876 KB  
Article
Redefining the Digital Frontier: Digital Leadership, AI, and Innovation Driving Next-Generation Tourism and Hospitality
by Abdullah Hamoud Ali Seraj, Ahmed Mohamed Hasanein, Bassam Samir Al-Romeedy and Mohammed N. Elziny
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 369; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090369 - 18 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1789
Abstract
Despite the recognized importance of digital transformation, there remains a research gap regarding the specific mechanisms through which digital leadership enables organizations to translate digital strategies into sustainable outcomes. This study addresses this gap by examining the role of digital leadership (DL) as [...] Read more.
Despite the recognized importance of digital transformation, there remains a research gap regarding the specific mechanisms through which digital leadership enables organizations to translate digital strategies into sustainable outcomes. This study addresses this gap by examining the role of digital leadership (DL) as a critical driver of digital transformation (DT), while highlighting the mediating effects of artificial intelligence (AI) and digital innovation (DI). Drawing on the Dynamic Capabilities Theory, we conceptualize DL as a sensing and seizing capability that mobilizes organizational resources to foster AI adoption and support DI, thereby achieving transformational resilience. Using a convenience sample of 346 employees from five-star hotels and class-A travel agencies in Greater Cairo, Egypt, data were analyzed through Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The findings reveal that DL has a strong direct impact on DT and, more importantly, an indirect effect through enhancing AI productivity and enabling DI. This dual pathway advances theoretical understanding of how digital leadership shapes transformation processes and offers practical evidence for tourism and hospitality firms seeking to sustain competitiveness in dynamic market environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Era of Technology: Impacts and Implications of Digital and Artificial Intelligence Transformation on Organizations)
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21 pages, 790 KB  
Article
WHO–WHAT–HOW: A Product Operating Model for Agile, Technology-Enabled Digital Transformation
by Raul Ionuț Riti, Claudiu Ioan Abrudan, Laura Bacali and Nicolae Bâlc
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 368; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090368 - 17 Sep 2025
Viewed by 624
Abstract
Organizations face rising market volatility, while legacy, plan-driven structures struggle to translate strategy into adaptive execution. Prior studies discuss product-centric operating models, yet typically treat decision rights, product definition, and technology-enabled execution separately. This paper introduces the WHO–WHAT–HOW framework, an authorial synthesis that [...] Read more.
Organizations face rising market volatility, while legacy, plan-driven structures struggle to translate strategy into adaptive execution. Prior studies discuss product-centric operating models, yet typically treat decision rights, product definition, and technology-enabled execution separately. This paper introduces the WHO–WHAT–HOW framework, an authorial synthesis that links decision boundaries (WHO), product scope and value hypotheses (WHAT), and workflow and technology routines (HOW) into a single, operational model. A triangulated design is employed, comprising a systematic document analysis of 62 sources published between 2018 and 2024, illustrative case studies of Amazon and Spotify, and a scenario-based organizational illustration that contrasts a baseline hierarchy with a WHO–WHAT–HOW configuration. Rather than constituting empirical validation, these elements serve as illustrative demonstrations of conceptual plausibility. Indicative composite indices, synthetically constructed from document-coded constructs and simulated rules, suggest improvements in decision speed, cycle time, and coordination; these indices are heuristic and non-inferential. The contribution is threefold: First, it provides a pragmatic five-step implementation roadmap. Then, we make the mechanisms concrete via a construct-to-rule mapping and three rule-based vignettes (incident pathway, value-hypothesis experiment, cross-team dependency), showing how WHO–WHAT–HOW compresses decision time, cycle time, and coordination without introducing new measurement programs. Finally, the composite indices remain heuristic and non-inferential. Limitations include reliance on secondary evidence and a scenario-based, non-empirical illustration; robust validation requires longitudinal, multi-sector primary data and testing in regulated or low-automation settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Navigating the Challenges: Entrepreneurship and Leadership in the Modern Global Business Landscape)
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31 pages, 1505 KB  
Article
A Decision-Making Framework for Public–Private Partnership Model Selection in the Space Sector: Policy and Market Dynamics Across Countries
by Marina Kawai and Shinya Hanaoka
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 367; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090367 - 16 Sep 2025
Viewed by 965
Abstract
The increasing complexity and commercialization of the global space sector have elevated the strategic role of public–private partnerships (PPPs). However, the criteria for selecting suitable PPP models remain underexplored, particularly regarding the influence of national policy and market environments. This study proposes a [...] Read more.
The increasing complexity and commercialization of the global space sector have elevated the strategic role of public–private partnerships (PPPs). However, the criteria for selecting suitable PPP models remain underexplored, particularly regarding the influence of national policy and market environments. This study proposes a decision-making framework that links six indicators—national strategic goals, government role preferences, regulatory structures, capital access, private-sector capabilities, and commercial demand—to four distinct PPP models in the space sector. Drawing on Eisenhardt’s multi-case theory-building methodology, this study analyzes PPP evolution in four countries representing mature, emerging, and nascent countries: the United States, Japan, India, and the United Arab Emirates. The cross-case analysis reveals that high-autonomy PPP models emerge only when institutional, financial, and market factors are systemically aligned. Divergence in PPP forms is driven not solely by technical capabilities but also by governance postures and regulatory designs. The findings contribute to addressing ongoing challenges related to policy reform and increasing private-sector involvement in the space sector by developing a practical decision-making tool for public and private-sector actors engaged in space governance. Specifically, the diagnostic framework enables stakeholders to assess national readiness and select appropriate PPP models. It also supports strategic planning by highlighting the reforms and capacity-building measures required for countries with nascent and emerging economies to transition from government-led missions to commercially integrated space ecosystems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Developments in Public Administration and Governance)
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38 pages, 971 KB  
Article
Does It Matter? Experimental Evidence on the (Signaling) Effect of Gender-Specific Accelerator Programs on Access to Angel Capital
by Elfi M. Lange, Isabel Schulze and Karina Sopp
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 366; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090366 - 16 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1103
Abstract
Despite the acknowledged importance of capital for start-up success, gender disparities persist when trying to raise funds from external sources, including angel investors, venture capitalists, and financial institutions. Many studies have shown that gender stereotypes are harmful and prevent women from gaining access [...] Read more.
Despite the acknowledged importance of capital for start-up success, gender disparities persist when trying to raise funds from external sources, including angel investors, venture capitalists, and financial institutions. Many studies have shown that gender stereotypes are harmful and prevent women from gaining access to resources, e.g., capital, distorting their start-up valuations, and influencing the resulting financing decisions. In recent years, gender-specific support measures have emerged that attempt to overcome gender inequalities in early-stage entrepreneurship, including gender-specific accelerator programs. However, there remains a lack of research on the effects of these gender-specific support programs. This study therefore investigates the influence of participating in gender-specific accelerator programs on access to angel capital, as a highly relevant source for the early financing of (women-founded) start-ups, considering signaling theory and its influence by the role congruity theory in an entrepreneurial context. A laboratory experiment involving 227 participants was conducted to explore these dynamics, reflecting perceptions of signals for angel investors. Overall, the findings suggest that gender-specific accelerator programs may positively influence perceived investment decisions by enhancing perceived team competence. Furthermore, investor gender moderates the perception of team competence. The signaling effect that (gender-specific) accelerators have on angel investors does not appear to be as great for men investors as it is for women investors. The findings contribute to signaling theory by understanding the impact of participation in (gender-specific) accelerator programs on the investment decision of angel investors while advocating for more inclusive approaches to fostering diversity and inclusivity within the start-up ecosystem. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women Financial Inclusion and Entrepreneurship Development)
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25 pages, 861 KB  
Article
Digital Transformation of the State: A Multivariable Model Applied to the Public Sector in Lima, Peru
by Lorena Espina-Romero
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 365; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090365 - 15 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1378
Abstract
Digital transformation has become a central strategy for modernizing the public sector. This study analyzes the relationships between digital competencies, digital literacy, change management, soft skills, technology adoption, digitization of the public function, digital public services, e-governance, the digital divide, digital transformation, and [...] Read more.
Digital transformation has become a central strategy for modernizing the public sector. This study analyzes the relationships between digital competencies, digital literacy, change management, soft skills, technology adoption, digitization of the public function, digital public services, e-governance, the digital divide, digital transformation, and state modernization in Peru. A quantitative, cross-sectional design was applied, using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling with data collected from 379 public servants in Metropolitan Lima. The results show that digital transformation and e-governance significantly influence state modernization. Digital competencies and digital literacy play an important role in facilitating technology adoption, while soft skills mediate the link between individual capacities and institutional processes. Digitization of the public function supports efficiency in administration and connects with the provision of digital public services, which in turn improves citizen access and trust. E-governance contributes to reducing the digital divide and reinforces the delivery of digital public services. The findings extend existing frameworks by integrating technological, organizational, and human dimensions into a single model. In practical terms, the study provides guidance for policymakers to strengthen digital competencies and literacy, implement structured change management programs, reinforce soft skills in civil service, advance the digitization of administrative functions, expand digital public services, and design inclusive policies to reduce the digital divide, thereby supporting sustainable state modernization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Sector Innovation: Strategies and Best Practices)
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21 pages, 623 KB  
Article
From Expectation and Participation to Satisfaction: The Moderating Role of Perceived Government Responsiveness in Digital Government
by Hongjing Mo and Loo-See Beh
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 364; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090364 - 15 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1077
Abstract
This study examines the mechanisms shaping citizen satisfaction in the context of digital government, taking Guangdong Province’s highly centralized “Yue Sheng Shi” platform as a case study. Building on the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) framework, a structural model was tested with survey [...] Read more.
This study examines the mechanisms shaping citizen satisfaction in the context of digital government, taking Guangdong Province’s highly centralized “Yue Sheng Shi” platform as a case study. Building on the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI) framework, a structural model was tested with survey data from 647 respondents and variance-based structural equation modeling. The results indicate that digital service expectations and citizen participation both enhance perceptions of service quality, with participation showing the stronger influence. Higher perceived service quality leads to greater citizen satisfaction, while government responsiveness strengthens this relationship. These research findings enrich the theoretical understanding of how satisfaction with e-government services is formed and extend the application of the ACSI framework to the Chinese digital governance context, while offering practical implications for governments on managing expectations, promoting citizen participation, and enhancing responsiveness in building citizen-centered digital platforms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Challenges and Future Trends in Digital Government)
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16 pages, 405 KB  
Article
Sexual Appeals in Advertising: The Role of Nudity, Model Gender, and Consumer Response
by Aníta Karen Sigurðardóttir, Vaka Vésteinsdóttir and Haukur Freyr Gylfason
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 363; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090363 - 15 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1594
Abstract
This study examines whether sexual appeals, specifically nudity (body coverage) and model gender, shape consumer responses to advertising. Guided by the Elaboration Likelihood Model, we test whether these factors operate as peripheral cues when argument strength is minimal (fragrance advertising). In a 3 [...] Read more.
This study examines whether sexual appeals, specifically nudity (body coverage) and model gender, shape consumer responses to advertising. Guided by the Elaboration Likelihood Model, we test whether these factors operate as peripheral cues when argument strength is minimal (fragrance advertising). In a 3 (model gender: male, female, both) × 2 (clothing: swimwear vs. outdoor wear) between-subjects experiment (n = 195), participants viewed one of six real advertisements from the same luxury fragrance brand featuring the same professional models. Nudity level did not affect attitudes toward the ad, brand attitude, or purchase intention. By contrast, ads depicting both a male and a female model produced small but reliable omnibus improvements in brand attitude and purchase intention relative to single-model ads; attitudes toward the ad were unaffected. Mediation tests indicated that these differences were not explained by attitude toward the ad or brand attitude, consistent with peripheral-cue processes rather than the classic ad → brand attitude sequence. Practically, the results challenge the assumption that “more nudity” is persuasive and suggest that, in low-argument contexts, gender-balanced model composition can be a modest, context-dependent cue. Advertisers should prioritize brand/category fit, pretest in the intended media environment (and locale), and expect incremental rather than large effects. Full article
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20 pages, 1277 KB  
Article
A Business-Driven ESG Strategy: A Case Study of Hansol Paper in South Korea
by Beomjun Kim and Young-Hee Ko
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 362; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090362 - 13 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1770
Abstract
In this study, we aimed to analyze whether ESG strategies can be utilized as sustainable strategies with practical necessity and effectiveness in solving problems within a realistic business environment. To this end, through an in-depth case analysis of Hansol Paper, South Korea’s leading [...] Read more.
In this study, we aimed to analyze whether ESG strategies can be utilized as sustainable strategies with practical necessity and effectiveness in solving problems within a realistic business environment. To this end, through an in-depth case analysis of Hansol Paper, South Korea’s leading paper company and a global paper manufacturer, we explored the conditions and processes under which ESG strategies can be implemented as practical problem-solving and sustainable strategies within the business environment. Hansol Paper addressed specific business crises such as supply chain instability, rising energy costs and declining paper demand by integrating ESG strategies, through which the company achieved results in problem-solving and innovation within the business value chain, building trust with external stakeholders and achieving high ESG performance. The foundation for the integration of ESG and business strategies and their sustained implementation was established through enhanced professionalism and transparency within the company’s governance structure, including an increase in the number of external directors and female executives. This study presents the processes and conditions under which ESG strategies are designed and implemented with the purpose of actively addressing business challenges, using Hansol Paper as an in-depth case study. Our findings are expected to contribute to the academic and practical development of strategies that can enable companies to adapt to changes in industrial structures and business environments. Full article
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27 pages, 2676 KB  
Article
Research Performance on the UN Sustainable Development Goals in the EU27 (2019–2023)
by Emese Belényesi and Péter Sasvári
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 361; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090361 - 12 Sep 2025
Viewed by 515
Abstract
The increasing urgency of global sustainability challenges has elevated the role of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as benchmarks for both academic research and policy development. Within the European Union, measuring how national research systems contribute to SDG-related knowledge is critical [...] Read more.
The increasing urgency of global sustainability challenges has elevated the role of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as benchmarks for both academic research and policy development. Within the European Union, measuring how national research systems contribute to SDG-related knowledge is critical for guiding evidence-based policymaking and evaluating progress toward the 2030 Agenda. Since the adoption of the UN 2030 Agenda, research related to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has expanded significantly, reflecting their central role in guiding both global and European science policy. Despite this growing attention, systematic comparative evidence on how EU27 countries contribute to SDG-related knowledge production remains limited. This study provides a bibliometric analysis of research related to the SDGs across EU27 countries between 2019 and 2023. Drawing on data from Elsevier’s Scopus and SciVal platforms, we examine publication volume, relative share (RS), citation impact (FWCI), growth dynamics (CAGR), and thematic distributions. The dataset includes all document types associated with SDG1–SDG16. Germany, Italy, and France lead in absolute publication output, while smaller member states such as Cyprus, Malta, and Luxembourg display disproportionately high RS values. Health-related research (SDG3) dominates, followed by SDG7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), whereas socially oriented goals (SDG2 and SDG5) remain underrepresented. Hierarchical cluster analysis, validated through silhouette and agglomeration tests, identifies three groups of countries: (1) high-output, high-impact Northern and Western leaders; (2) diversified performers with balanced portfolios; and (3) emerging contributors from Eastern and Southern Europe. Explanatory analyses link bibliometric outcomes to contextual variables, showing strong correlations with Horizon Europe funding per capita and international collaboration, and moderate associations with GDP per capita and GERD. Institutional-level findings highlight the prominence of leading universities and research institutes, particularly in health sciences. The study introduces a robust cluster-based typology and a multidimensional framework that connects bibliometric performance with economic capacity, research investment, EU funding participation, and collaboration intensity. Policy recommendations are proposed to strengthen thematic balance, improve equitable participation in EU research programs, and foster international cooperation across the European Research Area. Full article
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21 pages, 2139 KB  
Article
Technology and Export Two-Way Link: Firm-Level Multidimensional Technology Adoption and Utilization
by Andi Susanto, Arif Imam Suroso, Hermanto Siregar and Harianto
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 360; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090360 - 12 Sep 2025
Viewed by 621
Abstract
This study explores the relationship between multidimensional technology adoption and utilization with exports, focusing on textile and clothing firms in Indonesia. Grounded by self-selection and learning-by-exporting hypotheses, this study uses binomial probit and ordinary least squares (OLS) models with data from 376 firms [...] Read more.
This study explores the relationship between multidimensional technology adoption and utilization with exports, focusing on textile and clothing firms in Indonesia. Grounded by self-selection and learning-by-exporting hypotheses, this study uses binomial probit and ordinary least squares (OLS) models with data from 376 firms to estimate a two-way link between a granular technology index, export propensity, and export intensity. The findings show that firms adopting and utilizing advanced technology effectively in administrative and production functions are more likely to self-select into exporting. Upon entering export markets, firms significantly increased their adoption and utilization of technologies, primarily in production functions. However, as export intensity increased, production technology upgrading increased slowly, while administrative technology adoption and use decreased. These results provide nuanced insights into how technology evolves across different stages of export activity and underscore targeted technology upgrading programs that address acquisition or routine utilization in every export activity to foster competitiveness. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Administrative Strategies and Practices for Economic Growth and Development: Governance, Sustainability, and Digital Transformation in the 21st Century)
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22 pages, 954 KB  
Article
Gossip Gone Toxic: The Dual Role of Self-Esteem and Emotional Contagion in Counterproductive Workplace Behavior
by Abdelrahman A. A. Abdelghani, Hebatallah A. M. Ahmed, Ahmad M. A. Zamil, Osman Elsawy, Sameh Fayyad and Ibrahim A. Elshaer
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 359; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090359 - 12 Sep 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1223
Abstract
Grounded in the Conservation of Resources (COR) theory, this study investigates how negative workplace gossip (NWG) influences counterproductive work behavior (CWB) in the hospitality industry. It further examines the mediating role of self-esteem and the moderating influence of emotional contagion in shaping this [...] Read more.
Grounded in the Conservation of Resources (COR) theory, this study investigates how negative workplace gossip (NWG) influences counterproductive work behavior (CWB) in the hospitality industry. It further examines the mediating role of self-esteem and the moderating influence of emotional contagion in shaping this relationship. While prior research has predominantly treated NWG as a social stressor or reputational threat, this study extends the COR theory by explicitly modeling the resource depletion mechanism, specifically, the erosion of self-esteem as a key pathway linking NWG to CWB. By doing so, it posits that gossip erodes self-esteem, a fundamental psychological resource that eventually leads to behavioral retreat or revenge. Within the COR framework, the study also presents emotional contagion as a unique moderating variable, emphasizing how individual differences in emotional susceptibility may either accelerate or buffer the process of resource loss. Data was collected from 437 employees working in five-star hotels in Sharm El-Sheikh using a structured questionnaire. Analysis via PLS-SEM revealed that NWG significantly increases CWB, both directly and indirectly, by undermining employees’ self-esteem. Additionally, self-esteem was found to mediate the NWG–CWB link, while emotional contagion moderated the impact of NWG on self-esteem, suggesting that individuals with better emotional regulation can maintain self-worth in the face of workplace gossip. The study offers both theoretical and practical insights, highlighting the value of incorporating emotional contagion within the COR theory to understand and manage gossip-induced stress. It also underscores the importance of emotional intelligence and HR practices such as training and selection in minimizing the harmful effects of gossip at work. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emotional Health in the Workplace: Implications for Organizational Dynamics, Performance, and Employee Well-Being)
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21 pages, 844 KB  
Article
Assessment of Romania’s Tourism Competitiveness: A Strategic Analysis Using the Importance-Performance (IPA) and Competitive Importance-Performance Analysis (CIPA) Frameworks
by Eugenia Andronic and Elena-Nicoleta Untaru
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 358; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090358 - 11 Sep 2025
Viewed by 827
Abstract
In today’s dynamic tourism industry, shaped by globalization and digitalization, understanding destination competitiveness is crucial for crafting sustainable development policies. This paper explores Romania’s competitive advantage as a tourist destination through both theoretical and practical perspectives. The present research aims to diagnose Romania’s [...] Read more.
In today’s dynamic tourism industry, shaped by globalization and digitalization, understanding destination competitiveness is crucial for crafting sustainable development policies. This paper explores Romania’s competitive advantage as a tourist destination through both theoretical and practical perspectives. The present research aims to diagnose Romania’s level of competitiveness by identifying tourist attributes perceived as relevant by visitors and evaluating their performance relative to other similar European destinations. A quantitative questionnaire-based survey was conducted to achieve this goal. The survey included 235 respondents, gathered through non-probability convenience and snowball sampling. Romania’s competitiveness was assessed using the Competitive Importance-Performance Analysis (CIPA) method, which allowed for the strategic mapping of the country’s position based on the relative performance of essential attributes. These attributes included cultural heritage, the diversity of natural landscapes, the digitalization of tourism services, and staff hospitality. The results highlighted that Romania possesses significant strengths in natural landscapes, gastronomy, accommodation quality, and outdoor activities. However, the study identified major negative gaps in critical areas such as service digitalization, tourist staff attitude, and the quality of cultural events. These findings underscore a latent competitive advantage based on authentic resources, which is currently underexploited from the perspective of modern management and infrastructure. The practical implications of this research provide a solid basis for optimizing tourism marketing policies, efficient resource allocation, and strengthening Romania’s positioning as an authentic, sustainable, and competitive destination within the European landscape. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Administrative Strategies and Practices for Economic Growth and Development: Governance, Sustainability, and Digital Transformation in the 21st Century)
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6 pages, 257 KB  
Editorial
Why and How Change? An Introduction to a Special Issue on Advancing Nonprofit Management: Innovations, Challenges and Best Practices
by Mary Tschirhart and Khaldoun AbouAssi
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 357; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090357 - 10 Sep 2025
Viewed by 569
Abstract
When we accepted the invitation to co-edit this Special Issue on innovations in the nonprofit sector in 2023, we did not know how much the world would change in less than two years [...] Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advancing Nonprofit Management: Innovations, Challenges and Best Practices)
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20 pages, 309 KB  
Article
Developing a Compliance Index to Improve the Performance of Major State-Owned Enterprises: An Analysis of South Africa
by Oupa Madala Galane, Patricia Lindelwa Makoni and Chisinga Ngonidzashe Chikutuma
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 356; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090356 - 10 Sep 2025
Viewed by 854
Abstract
Performance evaluation frameworks are essential for monitoring and enhancing the performance of state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Nonetheless, the existing frameworks exhibit particular deficiencies in delivering a comprehensive assessment of SOE performance or facilitating significant improvement. This study developed a comprehensive compliance index (PCI) to [...] Read more.
Performance evaluation frameworks are essential for monitoring and enhancing the performance of state-owned enterprises (SOEs). Nonetheless, the existing frameworks exhibit particular deficiencies in delivering a comprehensive assessment of SOE performance or facilitating significant improvement. This study developed a comprehensive compliance index (PCI) to measure SOE performance. The PCI was developed through a systematic and integrative review of the current performance frameworks and refined using the Delphi technique via an online questionnaire. This study contributes to public sector performance evaluation research by offering a more integrated tool that captures the full scope of SOEs’ performance, including financial, non-financial and developmental dimensions, based on the South African context. It is recommended that policymakers, especially the National Treasury, promote the adoption and use of the PCI to assist SOEs in assessing, monitoring, and improving their performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Strategic Management)
53 pages, 1840 KB  
Article
Evaluating the Efficiency of the Private Healthcare Facilities in Italy: A Game Cross-Efficiency DEA Modeling Framework
by Corrado lo Storto
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090355 - 10 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1468
Abstract
This study evaluates the operational efficiency of accredited private healthcare facilities in Italy, a sector increasingly complementing the public National Health Service. Unlike previous studies that aggregate public and private providers, this research focuses exclusively on private facilities, providing a consistent and detailed [...] Read more.
This study evaluates the operational efficiency of accredited private healthcare facilities in Italy, a sector increasingly complementing the public National Health Service. Unlike previous studies that aggregate public and private providers, this research focuses exclusively on private facilities, providing a consistent and detailed evaluation of their performance. Utilizing game-theoretic cross-efficiency Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) combined with Classification and Regression Tree (CART) analysis, this study identifies endogenous and exogenous efficiency drivers. Results indicate that private facilities operate at high efficiency levels (mean cross-efficiency = 0.923), with smaller facilities outperforming larger ones, though resources remain underutilized. Inactive ward and bed non-occupancy rates emerge as key inefficiency factors. Regional analysis highlights minimal disparities between the north–center and south, but significant local variations persist, shaped by governance, funding allocation, and institutional frameworks. This study also identifies an “efficiency paradox”, as in deficit regions, private expenditure correlates with higher efficiency, whereas in surplus regions, greater spending does not necessarily improve performance. These findings provide actionable insights for healthcare managers and policymakers, emphasizing the need to maximize capacity utilization, optimize staffing, and structure public–private partnerships strategically. Methodologically, integrating game cross-efficiency DEA with CART strengthens accuracy, offering a robust tool for benchmarking and improving private healthcare performance. Full article
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12 pages, 380 KB  
Article
Investigating the Effects of Work Intensification, Illegitimate Tasks and Psychological Detachment from Work on Work–Family Conflict
by Cláudia Andrade and Paula Costa Neves
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 354; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090354 - 9 Sep 2025
Viewed by 612
Abstract
Technological advancements and organizational restructuring have been linked to increased work intensification through longer workdays, increased responsibility, and increased pressure to meet high standards. Work intensification can have several negative effects such as the increase in work–family conflict. Moreover, due to the demands [...] Read more.
Technological advancements and organizational restructuring have been linked to increased work intensification through longer workdays, increased responsibility, and increased pressure to meet high standards. Work intensification can have several negative effects such as the increase in work–family conflict. Moreover, due to the demands related to work intensification, workers can be asked to perform illegitimate tasks. Since illegitimate tasks at work may be viewed by the worker as a waste of time and resources, illegitimate tasks can have a detrimental effect on workers’ morale and can impact the psychological detachment from work. The aim of the present study was to analyze the role of work intensification on work–family conflict, testing whether this relation is mediated by illegitimate tasks and psychological detachment from work. Participants (N = 480) were workers who filled out an online questionnaire that was disseminated using social media. The findings suggested that work intensification affected work–family conflict, and this relationship functioned through the two sequential mediators: illegitimate tasks and psychological detachment from work. Although past research has claimed that work intensification impacts work–family conflict, results showed that illegitimate tasks and psychological detachment from work play a critical role in this process. Practical contributions, limitations of this study and future research directions are discussed. Full article
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19 pages, 4395 KB  
Article
Motivation Mix and Agency Reputation: A Person-Centered Study of Public-Sector Workforce Composition
by Yongjin Ahn
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 353; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090353 - 8 Sep 2025
Viewed by 918
Abstract
Identifying what motivates public servants and how those motives vary across agencies is essential for both theory and practice, yet most existing “types of bureaucrats” remain untested against real workforces. Drawing on reputation theory, which posits that external audiences’ beliefs shape who seeks [...] Read more.
Identifying what motivates public servants and how those motives vary across agencies is essential for both theory and practice, yet most existing “types of bureaucrats” remain untested against real workforces. Drawing on reputation theory, which posits that external audiences’ beliefs shape who seeks and retains employment in an organization, we theorize that agency reputation will systematically sort employees into distinct motivational profiles. We analyze survey data from 13,471 U.S. federal employees merged with an externally derived, 40-year measure of agency reputation based on congressional speeches. A multi-level latent class analysis uncovers four robust motivation types—All-rounders (35%), intrinsically focused Job-motivated (25%), Self-interested (24%), and Amotivated (16%)—and two clusters of agencies distinguished by their profile mix. Reputational standing predicts profile membership: employees in highly reputed agencies are significantly more likely to be Job-motivated and less likely to be Self-interested or Amotivated, consistent with self-selection and socialization mechanisms highlighted in the extant literature. These findings validate classic typologies while demonstrating the value of integrating organizational-level reputation into motivation research, and they imply that recruiting and retention strategies should be tailored to the reputational context of each agency. Full article
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25 pages, 995 KB  
Article
Short-Term Impact of ESG Performance on Default Risk Under the Green Transition of Energy Sector: Evidence in China
by Yun Gao, Chinonyerem Matilda Omenihu, Sanjukta Brahma and Chioma Nwafor
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 352; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090352 - 6 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1014
Abstract
The prevailing view is that ESG performance contributes to corporate financial stability, particularly regarding long-term sustainability objectives. However, there is a notable lack of critical research exploring its short-term financial effects, especially within capital-intensive sectors experiencing green transformation. This study examines the theoretical [...] Read more.
The prevailing view is that ESG performance contributes to corporate financial stability, particularly regarding long-term sustainability objectives. However, there is a notable lack of critical research exploring its short-term financial effects, especially within capital-intensive sectors experiencing green transformation. This study examines the theoretical gap by investigating whether increased ESG performance may unintentionally heighten the financial burden and default risk in the short run. To verify the stability of each variable in the series, we employed the short-panel unit root test on panel data from 234 Chinese energy industry companies covering the years 2015 to 2023. Including enterprise fixed effects as well as time fixed effects, we find that higher ESG ratings increase the possibility of default risk in the Chinese energy sector. This effect remains robust after controlling firm size, financial leverage, return on assets, return on equity, earnings per share, beta and firm age. In addition, we conduct robustness checks using alternative default risk measures, both endogeneity- and component-based, and the outcomes demonstrate that the impact is substantial and consistent. Consequently, we may draw the conclusion that raising the ESG rating has an adverse effect on reducing corporate default risk, which fills the knowledge gap regarding the influence of listed companies’ default risk on China’s energy sector. Moreover, it has been found that green innovation plays a strengthening role in the analysis of the interaction term between green innovation and ESG on default risk. This suggests that while green innovation is a strategic initiative aimed at long-term sustainability, it requires a significant amount of capital and resources in the short term, which may result in higher default risk in the beginning. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainability in Corporate Governance: Strategy, Practice and Prospect)
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25 pages, 663 KB  
Article
Exploring the Multifaceted Nature of Work Happiness: A Mixed-Method Study
by Rune Bjerke
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 351; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090351 - 5 Sep 2025
Viewed by 719
Abstract
Work happiness is commonly described as an umbrella concept encompassing job satisfaction, engagement, and emotional attachment to the workplace. However, few studies have explored its underlying sources and emotional experiences, raising questions about its conceptual clarity and measurement. This exploratory inductive mixed-methods study [...] Read more.
Work happiness is commonly described as an umbrella concept encompassing job satisfaction, engagement, and emotional attachment to the workplace. However, few studies have explored its underlying sources and emotional experiences, raising questions about its conceptual clarity and measurement. This exploratory inductive mixed-methods study investigates whether work happiness can be better understood by distinguishing between its sources (antecedents) and emotional expressions (outcomes). In the qualitative phase, 23 part-time adult students from Norway’s public and private sectors reflected on moments of work happiness and the emotions involved. Thematic analysis identified five source-related themes, which informed the development of 49 items. These items were tested in a quantitative survey distributed to 4000 employees, yielding 615 usable responses. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) revealed six conceptually coherent source dimensions—such as autonomy, recognition, and togetherness—and one emotional dimension. Regression analysis demonstrated statistically significant associations between source factors and emotional experiences, offering initial support for a dual-structure model of work happiness. Notably, the findings revealed a dialectical interplay between individual (“I”) and collective (“We”) sources, suggesting that work happiness emerges from both personal agency and social belonging. While promising, these findings are preliminary and require further validation. The study contributes to theory by proposing a grounded, multidimensional framework for work happiness and invites future research to examine its psychometric robustness and cross-contextual applicability. Full article
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17 pages, 464 KB  
Article
Driving Strategic Entrepreneurship Through Organizational Commitment: Evidence from the IT Industry with Leadership Support as a Moderator
by Tayseer Afaishat, Amro Alzghoul, Mahmoud Alghizzawi and Sakher Faisal AlFraihat
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 350; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090350 - 5 Sep 2025
Viewed by 717
Abstract
This study examines the impact of job commitment on the adoption of strategic entrepreneurship within organizations, with leadership support considered as a moderating variable. Focusing on information technology companies in Jordan, we integrate perspectives from organizational behavior and strategic management to explore how [...] Read more.
This study examines the impact of job commitment on the adoption of strategic entrepreneurship within organizations, with leadership support considered as a moderating variable. Focusing on information technology companies in Jordan, we integrate perspectives from organizational behavior and strategic management to explore how employees’ commitment (affective, normative, continuance) influences their engagement in entrepreneurial initiatives, and whether supportive leadership environments amplify this effect. This study draws on social exchange theory and organizational support theory to propose that committed employees will reciprocate the organization’s support by innovating and taking initiative, especially when they feel backed by leadership. A quantitative survey was conducted, gathering 384 valid responses from employees across Jordan’s IT sector. Data were analyzed using structural equation modeling. The findings reveal that all three forms of commitment positively affect the propensity to engage in strategic entrepreneurship, with affective commitment showing the strongest link. Notably, leadership support significantly moderates these relationships: in high-support contexts, committed employees exhibit substantially greater entrepreneurial behavior. These results indicate that committed employees are more likely to pursue innovative ideas and strategic opportunities, especially when leaders encourage and back their efforts. Theoretical implications include an enhanced understanding of commitment’s role in corporate entrepreneurship and the contingent value of leadership, while practical implications suggest actionable steps for IT firms and others in emerging economies to stimulate innovation. This research contributes to the literature by highlighting human and leadership factors as key drivers of strategic entrepreneurship in organizational settings, and by providing empirical evidence from the Middle East context. Full article
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23 pages, 1012 KB  
Article
Investigating the Association Between Transformational Leadership and Job Satisfaction: The Role of Gratitude Towards the Organization in the Peruvian Context
by Edgardo Muguerza-Florián, Elizabeth Emperatriz García-Salirrosas, Miluska Villar-Guevara and Israel Fernández-Mallma
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090349 - 5 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1688
Abstract
Leadership literature suggests that a transformational leadership style can reduce negative employee outcomes, even in challenging work environments such as the education sector, where teachers play a key role in social development. This study aimed to analyze the association between transformational leadership and [...] Read more.
Leadership literature suggests that a transformational leadership style can reduce negative employee outcomes, even in challenging work environments such as the education sector, where teachers play a key role in social development. This study aimed to analyze the association between transformational leadership and job satisfaction: the role of gratitude toward the organization in the Peruvian context. A cross-sectional study with an explanatory design was conducted considering 457 men and women who declared themselves teachers, aged between 18 and 73 years (M = 38.63; SD = 10.61), recruited through non-probability convenience sampling. The theoretical model was evaluated using the Partial Least Squares method (PLS-SEM). An adequately fitting measurement model was obtained (α = between 0.893 and 0.969; CR = between 0.897 and 0.971; AVE = between 0.757 and 0.845), demonstrating that transformational leadership is positively associated with the components of gratitude toward the organization and job satisfaction, as well as the association of the components of gratitude toward the organization and job satisfaction. In turn, it was evident how gratitude toward the organization plays a mediating role in these relationships. In this sense, the study provides valuable information for Peruvian educational leaders seeking to improve indicators of satisfaction, gratitude, and leadership in their work environment. These findings enrich educational management, given that it is the first empirical study to demonstrate these links in a challenging sector of an emerging country, offering a solid foundation for the development of more humanized, effective, and sustainable management strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of Leadership in Fostering Positive Employee Relationships)
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22 pages, 520 KB  
Article
Determinants of Student Loyalty and Word of Mouth in Dual VET Secondary Schools in Bulgaria
by Teofana Dimitrova, Iliana Ilieva and Valeria Toncheva
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 348; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090348 - 4 Sep 2025
Viewed by 556
Abstract
In response to the growing importance of vocational education for youth employability, this study examines students’ perceptions of dual vocational education and training (dVET) in Bulgaria, focusing on the following determinants of student loyalty (SL) and word-of-mouth communication (WOM) in the secondary education [...] Read more.
In response to the growing importance of vocational education for youth employability, this study examines students’ perceptions of dual vocational education and training (dVET) in Bulgaria, focusing on the following determinants of student loyalty (SL) and word-of-mouth communication (WOM) in the secondary education context: brand associations, brand relevance, brand image, image of dVET, service quality, and student satisfaction, based on previously validated scales adapted to the Bulgarian context. A structured questionnaire was administered to a target population of 608 students across nine vocational secondary schools in the Plovdiv region. A total of 507 usable surveys were collected from students in 11th and 12th grades who were actively participating in work-based learning. Data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) with the SmartPLS 4 software. The findings indicate that brand image is the strongest direct predictor of the image of dVET. Furthermore, student satisfaction stands out as the most influential antecedent of WOM. The indirect pathways from service quality to both SL and WOM, mediated by student satisfaction, underscore the pivotal role of satisfaction as a transmission mechanism. The study contributes to the limited empirical research on branding in dVET and offers insights for policymakers, school administrators, and employers seeking to improve the attractiveness of these pathways. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Strategic Management)
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23 pages, 328 KB  
Article
Social Well-Being Strategies for Academics Working in a Hybrid Work Environment
by Rudo Rachel Marozva and Anna-Marie Pelser
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 347; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090347 - 4 Sep 2025
Viewed by 961
Abstract
The hybrid work environment significantly undermines the social well-being of employees in the workplace. Existing research predominantly addresses academics’ well-being challenges without offering practical strategies to counter these issues. This study identifies strategies that higher education institutions must adopt to enhance the social [...] Read more.
The hybrid work environment significantly undermines the social well-being of employees in the workplace. Existing research predominantly addresses academics’ well-being challenges without offering practical strategies to counter these issues. This study identifies strategies that higher education institutions must adopt to enhance the social well-being of their academics in hybrid work settings. It employs Demerouti’s Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model and Baumeister and Leary’s theory of the need to belong as its theoretical framework. Using a cross-sectional qualitative approach, semi-structured interviews were guided by an interview schedule to gather data. The sample comprised 23 academics from three campuses of North-West University, and thematic analysis was utilized to analyse the data. The study revealed that growth strategies, such as training, development, and mentoring, are crucial for fostering a sense of belonging, strengthening work relationships, and helping academics connect in a hybrid work environment. Support strategies like providing peer support, management support, physical resources, effective communication, and improvements in job quality enhance academics’ social well-being in this setting. Relationship strategies, which entail organizing social events and promoting a positive organizational culture, are key to encouraging social well-being in the hybrid work environment. Additionally, reward strategies, such as recognition and direct compensation, are essential for reinforcing a sense of belonging, improving work relationships, and enhancing social connections in a hybrid work environment. Intentional, coach-oriented, sensible, and inclusive leadership is vital. The findings offer valuable insights for higher education institutions to adopt a more comprehensive approach to managing the well-being of academic employees. This highlights the need to focus not only on mental and psychological health but also on social well-being. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Organizational Behavior)
19 pages, 683 KB  
Article
Impact Assessment in the Wine Industry: Potential and Limitations of the Social Return on Investment (SROI)
by Paolo Landoni and Angelo Moratti
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 346; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090346 - 3 Sep 2025
Viewed by 793
Abstract
As sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility gained increasing importance in agriculture, several impact assessment methodologies have been proposed. Social Return on Investment (SROI), a methodology used for understanding, measuring, and reporting the social, economic, and environmental value created by an organization, emerged as [...] Read more.
As sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility gained increasing importance in agriculture, several impact assessment methodologies have been proposed. Social Return on Investment (SROI), a methodology used for understanding, measuring, and reporting the social, economic, and environmental value created by an organization, emerged as a promising approach to quantify and monetize social and environmental impacts. However, research on SROI application within the wine industry remains limited, despite the sector’s global relevance and unique economic, social, and cultural dimensions. This study addresses this gap by evaluating the potential and limitations of SROI in assessing the social impact of a wine cellar’s products, services, and activities on its stakeholders. Indeed, we find confirmation that, as in other sectors, this methodology can support sustainability reporting and strategic decision-making. Applying the SROI methodology, stakeholder outcomes were analyzed, and the results indicate that for every EUR 1 invested, approximately EUR 1.44 of social value is generated, demonstrating SROI’s effectiveness in capturing social contributions beyond financial metrics. This study highlights SROI’s advantages, while also acknowledging challenges. Findings suggest that, despite some limitations, SROI can enhance wineries’ sustainability strategies and offers a robust framework to guide wineries—and potentially other agricultural sectors—toward socially responsible and sustainable practices. Future research should focus on developing industry-specific proxies and integrating SROI with other sustainability assessment tools, particularly in support of ESG reporting. This study contributes to academic discourse on impact evaluation methodologies and provides practical implications that aim to balance economic performance with social responsibility. Full article
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22 pages, 704 KB  
Article
Data-Driven Performance Evaluation and Behavior Alignment in Port Operations: A Multivariate Analysis of Strategic Indicators
by Gabriel de Vico, Charles Jefferson Rodrigues Alves, Miguel Afonso Sellitto and Débora Oliveira da Silva
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 345; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090345 - 2 Sep 2025
Viewed by 693
Abstract
This study investigates how a KPI-based incentive system can enhance behavior alignment and operational performance in complex port environments, addressing the growing need for data-driven governance in public logistics operations. The research analyzes a two-year dataset from 145 navigation teams across 22 Brazilian [...] Read more.
This study investigates how a KPI-based incentive system can enhance behavior alignment and operational performance in complex port environments, addressing the growing need for data-driven governance in public logistics operations. The research analyzes a two-year dataset from 145 navigation teams across 22 Brazilian ports, employing a multivariate approach that integrates cluster analysis, Wilcoxon signed-rank testing, and exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Results reveal distinct performance tiers, with high-performing ports showing consistent improvement in safety, compliance, and technical availability, while low-performing areas exhibit stagnation or decline. The stability of the three-factor structure—Operational Safety, Technical Availability, and Procedural Compliance—over time confirms the model’s robustness and suggests increasing internalization of performance expectations by teams. These findings demonstrate that incentive systems, when combined with transparent feedback and recognition, can align team behaviors with organizational goals and drive sustained operational improvement. The study contributes a validated, replicable framework for performance management, offering practical guidance for enhancing governance and strategic alignment in high-risk, complex settings. Future studies should explore motivational factors and the model’s applicability across the public sector. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Strategic Management)
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21 pages, 705 KB  
Article
From Influence to Impact: How Transformational Leadership Shapes Employee Behavior Through Psychological Activation
by Muhammad Rofiqul Islam, Leonel Prieto and Md Farid Talukder
Adm. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 344; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci15090344 - 1 Sep 2025
Viewed by 1317
Abstract
This study investigates how transformational leadership impacts pro-environmental and proactive work behaviors through key employee psychological states: self-efficacy, change orientation, and positive affect. We argue that transformational leadership significantly enhances these psychological states, which can drive proactive and pro-environmental workplace behaviors. We used [...] Read more.
This study investigates how transformational leadership impacts pro-environmental and proactive work behaviors through key employee psychological states: self-efficacy, change orientation, and positive affect. We argue that transformational leadership significantly enhances these psychological states, which can drive proactive and pro-environmental workplace behaviors. We used survey data collected via Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) from 542 full-time employees in the United States. Data analysis used Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM). The results confirm that transformational leadership significantly enhances self-efficacy, change orientation, and positive affect, factors that in turn promote pro-environmental work behavior. Moreover, change orientation and positive affect (but not self-efficacy) favor proactive work behavior. These findings emphasize the role of employee psychological mechanisms in translating leadership into sustainable workplace behavior. The study contributes to the leadership and sustainability literature by clarifying how internal psychological resources act as behavioral catalysts. Leaders can formulate strategies focusing on emotional and cognitive empowerment. Limitations and future research directions are also discussed. Full article
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