Administrative Sciences

29 pages, 1854 KB

Open AccessArticle

Digital Enablers of the Circular Economy: A Bibliometric and Gender-Inclusive Review of Business and Management Research (2015–2025)

by Eleonora Tankova, Iva Moneva, Radosveta Krasteva-Hristova, Miglena Pencheva and Antonina Ivanova

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 107; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020107 - 23 Feb 2026

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2023

Abstract

Digital transformation is central to circular economy (CE) strategies, yet the intersection between digital innovation and women’s entrepreneurship remains underexplored. We examine how IoT, AI, blockchain, data analytics and platform technologies are represented in CE-oriented management research and assess the visibility of gender-inclusive [...] Read more.

Digital transformation is central to circular economy (CE) strategies, yet the intersection between digital innovation and women’s entrepreneurship remains underexplored. We examine how IoT, AI, blockchain, data analytics and platform technologies are represented in CE-oriented management research and assess the visibility of gender-inclusive and women entrepreneurship perspectives. We merged Scopus and Web of Science records (2015–2025), removed duplicates, screened for relevance, and mapped themes and networks using bibliometrix (R) and VOSviewer. Digital-CE scholarship was found to rise after 2018, dominated by smart manufacturing, circular supply chains, digital product passports and blockchain traceability. Four clusters emerged: digital circular manufacturing, circular business model innovation, waste and resource management, and policy–social aspects. Gender-related terms appear in only 1.35% of the corpus, revealing a gap between academic research and EU policy priorities for inclusive digital and circular transitions. We integrate a gender-inclusive lens and outline an agenda positioning women entrepreneurs as critical yet overlooked actors in digital circular ecosystems. As a bibliometric review, this study maps scholarly attention rather than the prevalence of women-led circular ventures. Beyond mapping, we advance the paper’s primary contribution by proposing a governance-oriented synthesis that frames digital infrastructures as administrative mechanisms shaping who can participate in, benefit from, and influence digital circular ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategic Management and Governance for Circular Economy Transitions)

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26 pages, 690 KB

Open AccessArticle

Innovating Fiscal Transparency Through Open Government Partnerships: A Comparative Study of Local Governments in Australia and Germany

by Ken Coghill, Gabriele Buchholz and Wahed Waheduzzaman

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 106; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020106 - 23 Feb 2026

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1573

Abstract

Fiscal transparency is a core pillar of open government, yet its implementation at the local level remains uneven. This study investigates how the Open Government Partnership (OGP) contributes to fiscal transparency as a form of public sector innovation through a comparative analysis of [...] Read more.

Fiscal transparency is a core pillar of open government, yet its implementation at the local level remains uneven. This study investigates how the Open Government Partnership (OGP) contributes to fiscal transparency as a form of public sector innovation through a comparative analysis of local governments in Australia and Germany. Drawing on the Public Expenditure and Financial Accountability (PEFA) Framework (2016), the study evaluates 49 transparency and accountability criteria across four cases: the City of Melbourne, the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), the City of Osnabrück, and the City of Delmenhorst. Document analysis, complemented by semi-structured interviews with public officials, is used to assess the pattern of fiscal transparency practices. The findings show a consistent cross-case pattern: transparency is strongest in regulated domains such as procurement and external audit, while discretionary areas, including performance reporting, fiscal risk disclosure, and citizen-oriented access to information, display substantial variation. ACT demonstrates comparatively advanced, user-oriented transparency, whereas Melbourne shows targeted compliance alongside notable gaps; the German cases align in compliance-driven areas but exhibit more limited discretionary openness. The study develops a PEFA-guided checklist for assessing local government fiscal transparency and offers a mechanism-focused explanation of how global open government principles are translated into local administrative practice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Sector Innovation: Strategies and Best Practices)

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34 pages, 1331 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Entrepreneurship Education as a Moderating Mechanism in the Formation of Entrepreneurial Intentions: A Systematic Integrative Review with Implications for Sustainability in Emerging Economies with Special Reference to Oman

by Hafiz Wasim Akram and Mohammad Nazmuzzaman Hye

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 105; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020105 - 20 Feb 2026

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2252

Abstract

Entrepreneurship education (EE) is increasingly considered an important tool in promoting sustainable economic development, yet the empirical base for its effect on entrepreneurial intention (EI) is dispersed and not consistent. However, the literature fails to address EE as a direct antecedent of EI [...] Read more.

Entrepreneurship education (EE) is increasingly considered an important tool in promoting sustainable economic development, yet the empirical base for its effect on entrepreneurial intention (EI) is dispersed and not consistent. However, the literature fails to address EE as a direct antecedent of EI and pays little attention to conditional mechanisms that explain how education contributes to shaping entrepreneurial cognition. To address this gap, this article performs a systematic–integrative review of the literature where entrepreneurship education is a moderating variable in entrepreneurial intentionality. Based on PRISMA 2020, peer-reviewed journal papers from 2000 to 2025 were collected through Scopus and Web of Science and systematized with the theory-building integrative method. Using the Theory of Planned Behavior, Shapero’s Entrepreneurial Event Model, Social Cognitive Theory and Human Capital Theory, we show in the review that entrepreneurship education primarily moderates how entrepreneurial attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control predict entrepreneurial intention rather than exert uniform direct effects. The results also reveal that the moderating effect of EE is dependent on pedagogical quality, level of experiential depth, extent of cultural fit and institutional support, with strong implications for emerging and collectivist economies. Holistic in approach, the study demonstrates how education for entrepreneurship can focus entrepreneurial intention on sustainable value creation, economic diversification and inclusive development contributing directly to SDGs 4 (quality education), 8 (decent work and economic growth) and 9 (industry innovation and infrastructure). The paper introduces a context-dependent conceptual framework, and discusses some implications for sustainability-related educational design and policy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Entrepreneurship and Leadership Development)

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21 pages, 1391 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Conceptual Framework for Driving Digital Transformation in Japanese SMEs: Integrating Dynamic Capabilities and Service-Dominant Logic

by Takashi Yamamoto, Ryoko Toyama, Naoshi Uchihira and Takuichi Nishimura

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 104; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020104 - 20 Feb 2026

Viewed by 2128

Abstract

This study examines how digital transformation (DX) unfolds in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) through an analytical integration of dynamic capabilities (DCs) and service-dominant logic (SDL). While DX research is abundant, existing studies tend to discuss internal organizational capabilities (DCs) and external value [...] Read more.

This study examines how digital transformation (DX) unfolds in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) through an analytical integration of dynamic capabilities (DCs) and service-dominant logic (SDL). While DX research is abundant, existing studies tend to discuss internal organizational capabilities (DCs) and external value co-creation (SDL) in isolation, offering limited insight into how resource-constrained SMEs execute transformation in practice. Employing a multiple case study approach based on Japanese SMEs, this paper uses the micro-foundations of DC (sensing, seizing, and transforming) as an analytical lens to examine how the resource integration processes emphasized in SDL are operationalized through phased organizational decision-making. The findings illustrate that while DC provides the organizational process logic for change, SDL offers the perspective through which SMEs overcome internal resource scarcity by engaging in external collaboration. By bridging internal capability-based and external co-creation perspectives, this study contributes to a more granular and contextually grounded understanding of transformation processes under resource constraints. From a practical perspective, the findings highlight the importance of fostering dialogue and building external relationships as conditions for activating dynamic capabilities and mitigating organizational rigidity, offering practically relevant implications for SME managers and policymakers. Full article

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24 pages, 1188 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing State Aid Processes During COVID-19 in the Slovak Republic: Model, Simulation, and Savings

by Ivana Butoracová Šindleryová, Lukáš Cíbik, Kamil Turčan and Katarína Mičeková

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 103; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020103 - 16 Feb 2026

Viewed by 678

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant vulnerabilities in public-sector administrative capacity, particularly in the implementation of crisis-related state aid schemes. Under conditions of extreme workload, time pressure, and legal constraints, administrative processes became critical determinants of policy effectiveness rather than routine implementation mechanisms. This [...] Read more.

The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant vulnerabilities in public-sector administrative capacity, particularly in the implementation of crisis-related state aid schemes. Under conditions of extreme workload, time pressure, and legal constraints, administrative processes became critical determinants of policy effectiveness rather than routine implementation mechanisms. This study examines how such processes perform under crisis conditions and whether process modeling and simulation can identify efficiency gains without undermining procedural control. Using a case study of a COVID-19 state aid scheme administered by the Ministry of Transport of the Slovak Republic, the study combines Business Process Model and Notation (BPMN)-based process modeling, discrete-event simulation, and Monte Carlo analysis, and can identify efficiency gains in crisis-related state aid administration. The methodological approach integrates BPMN-based process modeling, discrete-event simulation, and scenario-based (“what-if”) sensitivity analysis to evaluate process performance under crisis-induced demand surges. Key performance indicators, including processing time, labor costs, and resource utilization, are analyzed using simulation outputs and dashboard-based visualization. Data analysis is conducted through simulation-based evaluation of key performance indicators, including processing time, labor costs, queue length, and resource utilization, under both baseline (AS-IS) and redesigned (TO-BE) process configurations. Scenario-based (“what-if”) and sensitivity analyses are applied to assess the effects of crisis-induced demand surges and capacity constraints on administrative performance. The results show that increased application volume during the crisis led to disproportionate growth in processing times due to queue accumulation and resource contention. Simulation-based process redesign reduced the average process cycle time by up to 12.8% and labor costs per application by up to 8.4% compared to the AS-IS configuration. However, efficiency gains diminished as resource utilization approached capacity limits, indicating structural constraints inherent to public administration. These findings demonstrate that process-oriented simulation provides a robust analytical tool for understanding administrative behavior under crisis conditions and for designing more efficient and resilient state aid mechanisms. The study contributes to public administration research by offering a micro-level, process-based perspective on crisis governance that complements the existing macro-level policy evaluations. Full article

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20 pages, 632 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustaining Interactional Justice Amid Work-Related Negative Emotions: A Moderated Mediation Model in Boundary-Spanning Bank Workers

by Jale Minibas-Poussard, Tutku Seckin, Ahmet Tugrul Tuger and Haluk Baran Bingöl

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020102 - 16 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1328

Abstract

Background: Boundary-spanning bank employees experience continuous customer interactions that can generate negative emotions and influence how they perceive interpersonal treatment at work. Although emotions are known to shape fairness judgments, little is understood about how negative emotions translate into lower interactional justice through [...] Read more.

Background: Boundary-spanning bank employees experience continuous customer interactions that can generate negative emotions and influence how they perceive interpersonal treatment at work. Although emotions are known to shape fairness judgments, little is understood about how negative emotions translate into lower interactional justice through self-related psychological mechanisms. This study examines whether organization-based self-esteem (OBSE), self-efficacy, and external workplace locus of control (EWLOC) jointly condition the association between negative emotions and interactional justice. Method: Survey data were obtained from 338 boundary-spanning bank workers in Istanbul, Türkiye. The proposed moderated mediation framework was examined using PROCESS Macro Model 21, testing OBSE as a mediator between negative emotions and interactional justice. Self-efficacy and EWLOC were included as moderators on the first- and second-stage paths. Bootstrapping with 5000 resamples provided confidence intervals for the conditional indirect effects. Results: Stronger negative emotions were associated with lower OBSE and lower interactional justice perceptions, and the pattern of results was consistent with an indirect association via OBSE. The negative emotion–OBSE association varied by self-efficacy, with the association being stronger among employees reporting lower self-efficacy. EWLOC conditioned the OBSE–justice association, such that this association was weaker at higher levels of external orientation. The conditional indirect association was significant for employees low in self-efficacy and low-to-moderate in EWLOC. Conclusions: The findings are consistent with a moderated mediation model in which negative emotions are indirectly linked to interactional justice through OBSE, with the magnitude of these associations depending on employees’ personal resources and attributional tendencies. The results suggest that strengthening OBSE and related psychological resources may be useful for supporting justice perceptions in emotionally demanding service roles. 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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22 pages, 594 KB

Open AccessArticle

Negotiating Multiple Identities: The Intersection of Race and Gender in the Lived Experiences of South African Female Engineers

by Shanya Reuben, Shaida Bobat and Tarryn van Niekerk

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 99; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020099 - 13 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1368

Abstract

Engineering remains a highly gendered and racialised profession in South Africa, shaped by enduring historical inequalities and the imprint of institutionalised exclusion that structures women’s experiences of belonging and professional legitimacy. While women’s underrepresentation in STEM is well documented, there remains a limited [...] Read more.

Engineering remains a highly gendered and racialised profession in South Africa, shaped by enduring historical inequalities and the imprint of institutionalised exclusion that structures women’s experiences of belonging and professional legitimacy. While women’s underrepresentation in STEM is well documented, there remains a limited body of qualitative, intersectional, identity-focused research examining how women engineers negotiate professional identity within everyday organisational contexts. Addressing this gap, this qualitative study draws on semi-structured interviews with nine women engineers working across diverse engineering fields in South Africa and employs inductive reflexive thematic analysis informed by an intersectional and social constructionist framework. The findings identify one overarching theme, Negotiating the Intersection of Multiple Identities, capturing how women’s professional identities are continuously negotiated within engineering cultures characterised by the continued privileging of narrow norms of competence and belonging. Identity negotiation was shaped by intersecting gendered and racialised norms, with variation linked to pressures of professional legitimacy, relational positioning, and anticipated life-course considerations. The study demonstrates that professional identity negotiation among women engineers is a relational and ongoing organisational process rather than an individual or episodic response to workplace demands, and offers analytically transferable insights for scholarship on identity, belonging, and legitimacy in masculinised and historically unequal STEM contexts. Full article

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26 pages, 851 KB

Open AccessReview

Exploring the Work Perceptions and Experiences of Gig Workers Globally: A Scoping Review

by Sameera Hussain-Khan, Shanya Reuben and Anna Meyer-Weitz

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020098 - 13 Feb 2026

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 4121

Abstract

The rapid expansion of the gig economy is reshaping work globally, producing both new opportunities and significant challenges for workers across diverse regions. This scoping review mapped global evidence on gig workers’ experiences between 2018 and 2024, following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A comprehensive search [...] Read more.

The rapid expansion of the gig economy is reshaping work globally, producing both new opportunities and significant challenges for workers across diverse regions. This scoping review mapped global evidence on gig workers’ experiences between 2018 and 2024, following PRISMA-ScR guidelines. A comprehensive search of academic databases (EBSCOhost, Scopus, Sage, Springer, Taylor & Francis, Wiley, and Google Scholar) was conducted, yielding 1986 records, of which 26 met the inclusion criteria. Data were charted and synthesised to identify patterns in how gig workers describe their work experiences within broader socioeconomic and platform-based structures. Three interconnected themes emerged. First, freedom and flexibility remain central attractions of gig work, particularly for younger workers who value autonomy, scheduling control, and opportunities for combining multiple income streams. Second, gig work experiences vary significantly across demographic and geographic contexts, revealing unequal pathways shaped by gender, education, skill, migration status, and national labour-market conditions. Third, across all gig-work categories, workers reported precarity, including inconsistent income, job insecurity, algorithmic surveillance, limited benefits, and emotional strain. Taken together, the findings illustrate how autonomy and vulnerability coexist within the gig economy, highlighting the importance of policies and supports that address intersecting forms of inequality and promote safe, stable, and dignified work in a rapidly evolving labour landscape. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Navigating Diversity and Transformation: Strategic HRM in the Global Environment)

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32 pages, 1137 KB

Open AccessArticle

Teacher Burnout and Economic Crisis Effects in Greek Primary Education: A Multidimensional Analysis of Emotional Exhaustion, Depersonalization, and Personal Achievement

by Efthimia Kokkonesi, Hera Antonopoulou, Georgios Igoumenakis and Constantinos Halkiopoulos

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020101 - 13 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2350

Abstract

Background: Professional burnout, characterized by three distinct psychological dimensions—emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal achievement—threatens elementary teachers’ well-being and educational quality. Limited research examines burnout patterns in elementary education contexts experiencing economic crisis, particularly the interplay between workplace stress and societal stressors. Notably, [...] Read more.

Background: Professional burnout, characterized by three distinct psychological dimensions—emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal achievement—threatens elementary teachers’ well-being and educational quality. Limited research examines burnout patterns in elementary education contexts experiencing economic crisis, particularly the interplay between workplace stress and societal stressors. Notably, the bidirectional relationship between workplace burnout and economic crisis burden, a distinctive contribution of this study, remains underexplored. Methods: A cross-sectional study surveyed 128 Greek elementary education teachers (response rate: 87.7%) during October 2024 using the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Educators Survey (MBI-ES) and demographic questionnaires. Statistical analysis examined relationships among burnout dimensions, demographic factors, and the psychological impact of the economic crisis. Results: Teachers demonstrated moderate emotional exhaustion (M = 25.09, SD = 11.05), with 35.9% experiencing high levels. Personal accomplishment was largely preserved, with 64.1% maintaining at least moderate levels, while depersonalization remained low, with 51.6% scoring in the low range and only 20.3% exhibiting high levels. Substitute teachers showed significantly higher depersonalization than permanent staff (7.92 vs. 4.73, p < 0.001). Male teachers reported nearly twice the level of depersonalization as females (9.66 vs. 5.36, p = 0.050). Emotional exhaustion strongly predicted the psychological impact of the economic crisis (β = 0.416, p < 0.001), explaining 27.4% of the variance. Most notably, this study establishes a bidirectional relationship between burnout and economic crisis burden—a distinctive contribution to the literature—revealing that emotional exhaustion predicts economic crisis psychological impact (β = 0.416, p < 0.001) while economic stress equally predicts emotional exhaustion (β = 0.413, p < 0.001), creating a reciprocal vulnerability cycle between occupational and societal stressors. The asymmetrical burnout pattern—moderate emotional exhaustion alongside preserved personal accomplishment (64.1% at least moderate) and low depersonalization (51.6% low)—suggests Greek teachers maintain professional efficacy despite emotional depletion. Conclusions: Emotional exhaustion, explaining 27.4% of the variance in economic crisis psychological burden (β = 0.416, p < 0.001), emerges as the central vulnerability linking workplace stress to broader societal stressors. Crucially, bidirectional analyses revealed that economic stress equally predicts emotional exhaustion (β = 0.413, p < 0.001), establishing a reciprocal vulnerability cycle between occupational and societal stressors. The asymmetrical burnout pattern—moderate emotional exhaustion alongside preserved personal accomplishment and low depersonalization—suggests Greek teachers maintain professional efficacy despite emotional depletion. These findings support targeted interventions prioritizing emotional recovery, employment security for substitute teachers, and gender-specific support in primary education. 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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17 pages, 605 KB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Business Intelligence on Organizational Performance: The Moderating Role of Employee BI Experiences

by Hamzeh Ahmad Mustafa Alawamleh, Rukana Ghalib Alshweesh, Nisrein Jamal Sanad Abu-darwish, Ala’mahmoud hussein Aljundi and Ali Atallah Salah

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 100; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020100 - 13 Feb 2026

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1938

Abstract

The use of business intelligence (BI) is becoming more common in many fields to help managers make better decisions. There are not many empirical studies on BI. The objective of this research is to analyze the influence of business intelligence capabilities, business intelligence [...] Read more.

The use of business intelligence (BI) is becoming more common in many fields to help managers make better decisions. There are not many empirical studies on BI. The objective of this research is to analyze the influence of business intelligence capabilities, business intelligence infrastructure, and collaboration capability on organizational performance, in addition to investigating the moderating impact of employee BI experiences. The study distributed 500 questionnaires to individuals from various divisions of management, involving managers of IT, supervisors, and directors in banking institutions in Jordan. A total of 212 individuals responded to the questionnaire that was sent out, and 197 of those responses were considered valid for the purpose of statistical analysis. We used structural equation modeling (SEM) to investigate the proposed relationships. The results indicated that business intelligence capabilities, business intelligence infrastructure, and collaboration capability significantly impacted organizational performance (p < 0.05), thereby supporting all relevant research hypotheses. There is a strong link between employee BI experiences and how well a bank performs. The research found a substantial moderating influence of employee BI experiences on the correlation among business intelligence capabilities, business intelligence infrastructure, and bank performance. However, no substantial moderating effect was determined between the collaboration capabilities and bank performance in Jordan. The results of this study offer pragmatic insights for the top management of commercial banks as well as for other banking industries and stakeholders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence in Business: Redefining Competencies, Finance, and Entrepreneurship)

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26 pages, 1749 KB

Open AccessArticle

Institutional Governance and Entrepreneurship: A Multi-Branch Perspective on Policy Mixes in Emerging Economies

by Mohammad Ali Moradi and Mohammad Jahanbakht

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 97; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020097 - 12 Feb 2026

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1434

Abstract

Institutions play a central role in shaping entrepreneurial behavior, yet much of the existing literature, even with the foundational insights of institutional economists such as Veblen, Mitchell, Commons, Coase, Ostrom, Williamson, and North, continues to view institutions as monolithic entities rather than as [...] Read more.

Institutions play a central role in shaping entrepreneurial behavior, yet much of the existing literature, even with the foundational insights of institutional economists such as Veblen, Mitchell, Commons, Coase, Ostrom, Williamson, and North, continues to view institutions as monolithic entities rather than as differentiated governance systems. This study addresses this gap by reconceptualizing institutions as multi-branch governance architectures in which legislative, executive, and judicial mechanisms interact to shape entrepreneurial outcomes, particularly in volatile emerging economies. The research asks how these disaggregated governance branches, mediated by institutional quality and external shocks, jointly influence entrepreneurial activity. Using Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) microdata for Iran over the period 2008–2020, merged with governance indicators and shock variables including sanctions and COVID-19, we employ pooled logistic regression to estimate the effects of governance functions and their policy mix interactions on Total Entrepreneurial Activity. The results show that executive policy quality has the strongest positive association with entrepreneurship, legislative coherence strengthens opportunity-driven activity, and judicial inefficiencies suppress entrepreneurial engagement by increasing uncertainty. Interaction effects further reveal that misalignment among governance branches weakens entrepreneurial activity, while coherent policy mixes mitigate the negative impact of external shocks. By integrating conceptual synthesis with empirical evidence, the study advances institutional theory, clarifies deficiencies in prevailing models, and demonstrates that entrepreneurial dynamism depends on the configuration and coordination of governance branches rather than on aggregate institutional scores. These insights provide policymakers with actionable guidance for designing coherent, adaptive, and resilient entrepreneurship-supporting ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Building Resilient and Agile SMEs: Strategic Responses to Digital Disruption and Transformation)

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20 pages, 339 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Psychosocial Experiences of Gen Z Entry-Level Employees in Corporate Organisations

by Sibonile Precious Ngobeni, Cebile Tebele and Samuel Siwela

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020096 - 12 Feb 2026

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3269

Abstract

Gen Z is an emerging talent entering the world of work with distinct characteristics, expectations, preferences, and aspirations compared to previous generations. Therefore, there is growing interest in understanding Gen Z’s entry-level experiences, particularly the psychosocial experiences of this unique generation as they [...] Read more.

Gen Z is an emerging talent entering the world of work with distinct characteristics, expectations, preferences, and aspirations compared to previous generations. Therefore, there is growing interest in understanding Gen Z’s entry-level experiences, particularly the psychosocial experiences of this unique generation as they transition into the world of work. Hence, the purpose of this study was to explore the psychosocial experiences of entry-level Gen Z newcomers in South African organisations. This study used a qualitative research approach, drawing on a social constructivist perspective. In-depth interviews were conducted to collect data on the lived experiences of nine Gen Z employees who had recently entered the workforce. A conventional content analysis approach was used to analyse the qualitative data. Salient psychosocial factors influencing the psychosocial experiences and professional adjustment and transition of Gen Z newcomers into the world of work were identified. This study indicated that organisations should focus on onboarding processes, supportive line managers, reasonable workloads, promoting work–life balance, providing meaningful work, supporting career management and development, creating diverse and inclusive work environments, promoting employee well-being, and providing technologically advanced and modern job tools to enhance positive psychosocial experiences of Gen Z newcomers in the workforce. This study sheds light on the psychosocial factors that promote positive psychosocial experiences among Gen Z newcomers, offering unique insights into the growing literature on the Gen Z generation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Workers’ Psychophysical Health and Engagement in Hybrid Contexts: How to Build Sustainable Organizations amidst the Technological Revolution)

17 pages, 638 KB

Open AccessArticle

Autonomous Administrative Intelligence: Governing AI-Mediated Administration in Decentralized Organizations

by Aravindh Sekar

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 95; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020095 - 12 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1839

Abstract

The increasing deployment of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) systems and decentralized digital infrastructures has challenged traditional assumptions about organizational administration, control, and governance. While AI has advanced task-level optimization and decision support, administrative functions such as coordination, compliance, and accountability remain largely centralized [...] Read more.

The increasing deployment of agentic artificial intelligence (AI) systems and decentralized digital infrastructures has challenged traditional assumptions about organizational administration, control, and governance. While AI has advanced task-level optimization and decision support, administrative functions such as coordination, compliance, and accountability remain largely centralized and dependent on humans. This paper introduces Autonomous Administrative Intelligence (AAI), a governance-aware AI capability that enables autonomous agents to execute and adapt administrative decisions within strategically defined constraints and decentralized governance mechanisms. Building on the Strategic Decentralized Resilience–AI (SDRT-AI) framework, the study develops a layered architecture and operational flow integrating agentic decision-making, governance-aware learning, and protocol-based validation. The proposed framework explains how strategic intent, organizational capabilities, and decentralized trust jointly enable scalable administrative autonomy while preserving accountability and control. By reframing administration as an AI-mediated governance process, this paper extends research on agentic AI and contributes to administrative science by providing a conceptual foundation for the design and governance of autonomous administrative systems in decentralized organizations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards Sustainable and Resilient Economy: The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Transforming Public Administration)

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24 pages, 327 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring Organizational Commitment as a Driver of Administrative Management in Local Public Institutions: Insights from a Low- and Middle-Income Country Governance Context

by Fabricio Miguel Moreno-Menéndez, Rubén Darío Tapia-Silguera, Vicente González-Prida, Carlos Rosario Sánchez-Guzmán, José Francisco Via-Rada-Vittes, Waldir Alexis Sánchez-Mattos, Luis Alberto Poma-Lagos and Fredi Paul Gutiérrez-Meza

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 94; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020094 - 11 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1665

Abstract

Administrative strategies are essential for ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in public institutions, particularly in the context of low- and middle-income countries where governance challenges and resource constraints persist. This study analyzes the relationship between organizational commitment and administrative management in a local public [...] Read more.

Administrative strategies are essential for ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in public institutions, particularly in the context of low- and middle-income countries where governance challenges and resource constraints persist. This study analyzes the relationship between organizational commitment and administrative management in a local public financial institution in Peru. Drawing on Meyer and Allen’s three-component model of commitment (affective, continuance, and normative) and classical administrative theory (planning, organizing, directing, and controlling), the research explores how psychosocial drivers influence perceptions of administrative practices. A cross-sectional, quantitative, non-experimental design was applied, surveying 31 employees using validated Likert-scale questionnaires. Fieldwork was conducted from January to June 2024. Non-parametric correlation analysis revealed a strong and statistically significant positive association between organizational commitment and administrative management (Spearman’s rho = 0.661, p < 0.01). Normative commitment was the most influential dimension, underscoring the role of loyalty and ethical obligation in sustaining perceived administrative management. These findings highlight the importance of strengthening human capital and organizational commitment as part of administrative strategies for institutional development. The study contributes to debates on governance and public sector reform by emphasizing how organizational dynamics in local institutions can shape broader trajectories of economic growth and development in emerging contexts. 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)

20 pages, 626 KB

Open AccessReview

Empowering Women Across Generations: AI-Enhanced Learning for Inclusive Leadership Development

by Lina Shouman, Antoni Vidal-Suñé and Amado Alarcón Alarcón

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020093 - 11 Feb 2026

Viewed by 2380

Abstract

Women are essential to the growth of any progressive society. Equal access to employment is necessary for both women’s empowerment and global economic growth. However, discrimination against women persists at all career levels, making it challenging for them to overcome barriers to leadership [...] Read more.

Women are essential to the growth of any progressive society. Equal access to employment is necessary for both women’s empowerment and global economic growth. However, discrimination against women persists at all career levels, making it challenging for them to overcome barriers to leadership such as access to personalized learning opportunities, mentorship, and career development programs. In addition, women leaders must navigate intergenerational change and transform existing systems to ensure that the experiences of all women within the organization are visible and valued, regardless of age. With different generations working together, the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into leadership training presents revolutionary prospects for enhancing the skillsets of women leaders, especially in historically male-dominated industries. This article provides evidence of how AI-generated content can help women leaders bridge intergenerational gaps and create a more collaborative environment. Furthermore, we present a practical framework that women managers can implement to foster strong intergenerational connections by leveraging AI in pursuit of inclusive leadership and gender equity. Full article

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30 pages, 383 KB

Open AccessArticle

Public Sector Innovation Capacity in Core Administrative Organizations: Evidence from Norway’s Brønnøysund Register Centre

by Athanasios Pantazis Deligiannis, Despoina Mitropoulou and Vassilios Peristeras

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 92; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020092 - 11 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1996

Abstract

Public-sector innovation is frequently portrayed as the domain of dedicated innovation labs and experimental units, obscuring how innovation capacity can emerge within core bureaucratic institutions. This article explores how Norway’s Brønnøysund Register Centre (BRC), mainly a registry authority traditionally associated with administrative stability, [...] Read more.

Public-sector innovation is frequently portrayed as the domain of dedicated innovation labs and experimental units, obscuring how innovation capacity can emerge within core bureaucratic institutions. This article explores how Norway’s Brønnøysund Register Centre (BRC), mainly a registry authority traditionally associated with administrative stability, has evolved into a central innovation intermediary within the country’s digital government ecosystem. Drawing on Meijer’s public innovation capacity framework, the study examines how innovation is mobilized, coordinated, tested, stabilized, and legitimized in practice. The findings show that the BRC performs key innovation functions by mobilizing and coordinating heterogeneous actors across a decentralized governance system, enabling experimentation through managed proofs-of-concept, and institutionalizing successful practices via authoritative registries, shared identifiers, and platform infrastructures. These arrangements support interoperability, data-centric service delivery, and the operationalization of once-only and life event-based service models. Trust emerges as an enabling condition that facilitates voluntary coordination, data sharing, and tolerance for experimentation, without substituting for formal governance or legal frameworks. The analysis further highlights how public-value considerations—such as data protection, identity management, accessibility, and accountability—are addressed alongside efficiency and innovation objectives. The article contributes to public-sector innovation research by demonstrating that transferability lies in functional adaptation—strengthening coordination, experimentation, and institutional foundations—rather than organizational replication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Sector Innovation: Strategies and Best Practices)

20 pages, 688 KB

Open AccessArticle

Leadership Communication Defines Hotel Employees’ Well-Being; Assessment of Socioeconomic Status and Trust in Leader

by Pouya Zargar and Panteha Farmanesh

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 91; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020091 - 10 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1763

Abstract

Leadership is a key predictor of employees’ well-being, especially in sectors with high labor intensity and role changes, such as the hotel sector. Leadership communication can act as a major job resource element in forming positive exchanges with employees. This research investigates the [...] Read more.

Leadership is a key predictor of employees’ well-being, especially in sectors with high labor intensity and role changes, such as the hotel sector. Leadership communication can act as a major job resource element in forming positive exchanges with employees. This research investigates the influence of leadership communication on employees’ well-being in luxury hotels across five Middle Eastern countries, namely Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Bahrain. Combining social exchange theory and the job demand-resources model, the indirect effects of trust in leader as a mediator and moderating influence of socioeconomic status are examined. Using a quantitative and deductive approach and a cross-sectional survey, a total of 380 employee data was collected and analyzed using a partial least squares–structural equation modeling technique in Smart-PLS software. (version 4). The dimensions of leadership communication had a significant link with the well-being of hotel staff. While the mediating influence of trust in leader was found to be partially significant, the inclusion of socioeconomic status as a moderator complements the findings. The results suggest that while appropriate leadership communication is essential and can establish trust, the socioeconomic status of employees in the high-demand, low-resource hotel sector is a crucial matter. The findings can be beneficial for scholars looking into regional and sectoral assessment as well as practitioners seeking to improve employees’ well-being in the Middle Eastern hotel sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue International Human Resource Management: Challenges, Opportunities, and Further Advancements)

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42 pages, 721 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainability in Fashion Industry: A View Through the Top Ten Multinational Strategies

by Isabel-María García-Sánchez and Maite Carnicero-Martínez

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020090 - 10 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 8050

Abstract

Climate change threatens the future of the next generations and is already causing widespread destruction in the present through an increasing number of natural disasters. A new model of production and consumption based on sustainability is required, especially in the fashion industry—the second [...] Read more.

Climate change threatens the future of the next generations and is already causing widespread destruction in the present through an increasing number of natural disasters. A new model of production and consumption based on sustainability is required, especially in the fashion industry—the second most polluting sector in the world. Therefore, in order to determine whether these companies contribute to people’s and the planet’s well-being, it is necessary to understand their practices. To this end, we analyse the sustainable practices of the sector by studying the ten most responsible fashion companies according to the BoF Sustainability Index, that is based on the methodology of content analysis applied to case studies. To do this, we have defined a taxonomy of the ten most common sustainability strategies and practices: stakeholder engagement, strong governance and transparency, decarbonisation, biodiversity conservation and restoration, circularity, reducing waste and pollution from the use of plastics, eliminating hazardous chemicals, preserving water quality, diversity, equity and inclusion policies, supply chain responsibility, and supporting the communities in which companies operate. The results show that major business groups have integrated axes into their sustainability strategies that address the industry’s primary social and environmental challenges. These plans are based on ambitious goals that go beyond stakeholder demands and the generation of economic benefits. Full article

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18 pages, 467 KB

Open AccessArticle

Professional Appraisal for Social Workers: A Multidimensional Model

by Horia Mihai Raboca

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020089 - 9 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1391

Abstract

One of the most important priorities of the most recent research work regarding the professional appraisal (PA) process is to understand different aspects of the social workers’ satisfaction with this particular type of professional evaluation. In this sense, this study addresses the imperative [...] Read more.

One of the most important priorities of the most recent research work regarding the professional appraisal (PA) process is to understand different aspects of the social workers’ satisfaction with this particular type of professional evaluation. In this sense, this study addresses the imperative to comprehensively understand social workers’ satisfaction with PA, a pivotal yet sensitive human resource instrument within public administration. Drawing on a sociological survey of social workers in Romania’s North-West Development Region, the research empirically validated a multidimensional theoretical model of PA satisfaction (PAS) through rigorous exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. The findings definitively establish that PAS is not a unidimensional construct, but rather a complex phenomenon underpinned by three distinct dimensions: (1) satisfaction with the most recent performance rating; (2) satisfaction with the appraisal system; and (3) satisfaction with the rater. This validated model significantly advances the conceptualization of satisfaction regarding PA, providing a precise diagnostic instrument for identifying systemic inefficiencies. Consequently, it offers a strategic framework for targeted organizational interventions and informs the development of more equitable and growth-oriented public policies. The study highlights that holistic measurement across these identified dimensions is crucial for cultivating employee motivation, reinforcing organizational justice, and fostering sustainable professional development within the public sector. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Organizational Behavior)

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22 pages, 1066 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Understanding Post-COVID Public Sector Innovation: A Systematic Review of Concepts, Antecedents, Outcomes, Constraints, and Theoretical Perspectives

by Wahed Waheduzzaman

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 88; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020088 - 9 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2446

Abstract

This study systematically reviews 53 peer-reviewed articles on public sector innovation published between 2021 and 2025 to synthesize knowledge on how innovation is conceptualized, triggered, enacted, and constrained. Findings reveal that innovation is framed across technological, organizational, governance, and social dimensions, reflecting substantial [...] Read more.

This study systematically reviews 53 peer-reviewed articles on public sector innovation published between 2021 and 2025 to synthesize knowledge on how innovation is conceptualized, triggered, enacted, and constrained. Findings reveal that innovation is framed across technological, organizational, governance, and social dimensions, reflecting substantial conceptual and theoretical diversity. Key triggers include digital transformation, leadership, inter-organizational collaboration, fiscal pressures, and workforce capabilities, with emphasis shifting toward technology, human capital, and collaboration in recent years. Innovation produces both positive outcomes, such as improved service quality, efficiency, and citizen engagement, and negative or unintended consequences, including implementation failures, equity concerns, and employee resistance. Persistent barriers, such as bureaucratic rigidity, risk-averse culture, accountability pressures, and political interference, operate as structural conditions rather than isolated obstacles. Theoretical foundations remain fragmented, with New Public Management, New Public Governance, institutional theory, and public value theory applied inconsistently. These findings underscore the need for integrative, context-sensitive approaches that combine institutional, human, and technological perspectives to guide innovation effectively. The review offers actionable insights for public managers and policymakers, emphasizing alignment with organizational capacity, leadership, and regulatory design, and highlights directions for future research to advance theory, practice, and policy in public sector innovation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Public Sector Innovation: Strategies and Best Practices)

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19 pages, 310 KB

Open AccessArticle

AI-Driven Personalization in Marketing Administration: Qualitative Insights from European Professionals

by Marcos Komodromos

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 87; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020087 - 9 Feb 2026

Viewed by 3264

Abstract

This qualitative study employs interpretive phenomenology and Actor–Network Theory (ANT) to examine the evolving role of AI as an agent within European marketing contexts. Drawing on semi-structured interviews with 36 senior executives from the tourism, fintech, professional services, and digital media sectors, the [...] Read more.

This qualitative study employs interpretive phenomenology and Actor–Network Theory (ANT) to examine the evolving role of AI as an agent within European marketing contexts. Drawing on semi-structured interviews with 36 senior executives from the tourism, fintech, professional services, and digital media sectors, the study identifies four interconnected themes: (1) ambivalent human–AI co-agency, where AI operates as a “co-strategist” influencing budgets and decisions; (2) infrastructural and regulatory challenges arising from legacy systems and GDPR/EU AI Act constraints; (3) ethical issues concerning opacity, bias, and exclusion in hyper-personalization; and (4) the redefinition of professional identities towards hybrid socio-technical roles. The findings underscore AI’s role as a co-creator of strategy, governance, and power, highlighting the necessity of balanced co-agency, robust infrastructure, ethical safeguards, and adaptable skill sets. The AI-MARC framework (Agency, Infrastructure, Responsibility, Capability) provides a practical framework for governance of sustainable AI integration. This work addresses gaps in qualitative AI marketing research by emphasising reflexive practices amid evolving regulations, with the aim of fostering equitable networks that align innovation, fairness, and accountability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence in Marketing: Transforming Strategy, Insight and Consumer Engagement)

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19 pages, 1317 KB

Open AccessReview

New Principles for Work Engagement in Switzerland

by Dalowar Hossan, Qing Zhang, Bert Wolfs and Noor-E-Medina Suraiya Jesmin

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 86; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020086 - 9 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1962

Abstract

Global employee work engagement remains critically low, with only 21% of employees engaged worldwide in 2024 and Switzerland ranking near the bottom in Europe at 8%. Existing theories and models that explain employee engagement (Reinforcement Theory, Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory, Equity Theory, Social Exchange [...] Read more.

Global employee work engagement remains critically low, with only 21% of employees engaged worldwide in 2024 and Switzerland ranking near the bottom in Europe at 8%. Existing theories and models that explain employee engagement (Reinforcement Theory, Herzberg’s Two-Factor Theory, Equity Theory, Social Exchange Theory, Expectancy Theory, the Job Characteristics Model, Social Identity Theory, Self-Determination Theory, Conservation of Resource Theory, Psychological Empowerment Theory, Affective Events Theory, and the Job Demands–Resources Model) have been criticized for oversimplifying engagement processes, neglecting cultural and individual differences, and overemphasizing either intrinsic or extrinsic motivators. Addressing these gaps, this study proposes new principles for work engagement that integrate intrinsic and extrinsic motivators, cognitive and environmental variables, and dual employee–organization responsibilities. The framework emphasizes employee contributions (sincere effort, striving for excellence, ownership of meaningful tasks), organizational practices (fair treatment, participation, recognition, meaningful work), and effort–reward alignment as a central mediating mechanism. Moderating factors, including a culture of excellence and shared responsibility, ensure adaptability across diverse employee values, personalities, and motivational orientations. Ten propositions and associated measurement instruments are developed, grounded in established theories while operationalized for the Swiss organizational context, bridging theory and practice. The proposed framework offers a holistic, culturally sensitive, and actionable approach to enhancing engagement, providing both conceptual rigor and practical relevance for scholars and managers aiming to improve employee motivation and performance in complex, knowledge-based workplaces. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Trends in Employee Green Behavior and Organizational Impact)

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28 pages, 471 KB

Open AccessArticle

Introducing SAFE-AI: A Behavioral Framework for Managing Ethical Dilemmas in AI-Driven Human Resource Practices

by Rob E. Carpenter, Debaro Huyler, Sanket Ramchandra Patole and Rochell McWhorter

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020085 - 9 Feb 2026

Viewed by 2333

Abstract

Organizations increasingly deploy artificial intelligence (AI) in human resource (HR) decision processes to improve efficiency and strategic execution, yet ethical failures persist when principles remain decoupled from everyday workflow enactment. This paper addresses AI-ethics in HR practice by advancing a behavior-first premise: AI-ethics [...] Read more.

Organizations increasingly deploy artificial intelligence (AI) in human resource (HR) decision processes to improve efficiency and strategic execution, yet ethical failures persist when principles remain decoupled from everyday workflow enactment. This paper addresses AI-ethics in HR practice by advancing a behavior-first premise: AI-ethics becomes durable organizational practice only when ethical intent is translated into observable routines and cues that employees can interpret as legitimate and consistently enforced. We introduce the Socially Aware Framework for Ethical AI (SAFE-AI), which integrates normative ethical reasoning (consequentialist and deontological logics), social information processing, and socially informed heuristics as a practical translation layer for HR workflows. SAFE-AI specifies three stages of implementation—moving in (initiation), moving through (navigation), and moving out (culmination)—to guide scoping and constraints, feedback-driven interpretation management, and institutionalized accountability. Because enactment depends on the organizational cue environment, leadership behaviors (ethical intent-setting, resourcing, sensegiving transparency, and enforceable accountability) function as necessary conditions for sustained implementation beyond HR-local governance. We conclude with implications for practice and a testable agenda for research focused on implementation fidelity, cue-consistency mechanisms, and boundary conditions across organizational contexts. Full article

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12 pages, 275 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Inclusive Leadership on Employee Innovative Behavior: The Chain Mediating Role of Employee Positive Emotions and Creative Self-Efficacy

by Jiahui He and Delong Li

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 84; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020084 - 8 Feb 2026

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1832

Abstract

Employee innovative behavior is an important source of organizational competitiveness and sustainable development. Accordingly, increasing scholarly attention has been directed toward how leadership behaviors are associated with employees’ innovative actions. Drawing on Affective Events Theory and the ABC Theory of Emotion, this study [...] Read more.

Employee innovative behavior is an important source of organizational competitiveness and sustainable development. Accordingly, increasing scholarly attention has been directed toward how leadership behaviors are associated with employees’ innovative actions. Drawing on Affective Events Theory and the ABC Theory of Emotion, this study develops a cognition–emotion–attitude–behavior framework to examine the relationships among inclusive leadership, positive emotions, creative self-efficacy, and employee innovative behavior. Using a questionnaire survey, data were collected from 463 employees working in innovation-oriented enterprises. Hierarchical regression analyses and bootstrap procedures were employed to examine the proposed associations and indirect effects. Inclusive leadership plays a positive role in stimulating employee innovation. Moreover, positive emotions and creative self-efficacy each exhibit significant indirect associations linking inclusive leadership to employee innovative behavior. This study contributes to the literature by clarifying the affective and attitudinal processes associated with inclusive leadership and by enriching understanding of the psychological pathways linked to employee innovative behavior. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Psychology of Employee Motivation)

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20 pages, 1206 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Drivers of E-Government Adoption in Emerging Economies: A Meta-Analysis of Technology Acceptance and Service Quality Pathways

by Mustafa Yaasin Sheik, Dmitry Pavlyuk, Olga Zervina and Yulia Stukalina

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 83; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020083 - 8 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2007

Abstract

E-government adoption rates in emerging economies remain persistently low despite substantial infrastructure investments. Understanding adoption drivers requires synthesizing fragmented empirical evidence on technology acceptance and service quality factors across diverse contexts. Purpose: This study aimed to quantify relationships between (a) perceived ease of [...] Read more.

E-government adoption rates in emerging economies remain persistently low despite substantial infrastructure investments. Understanding adoption drivers requires synthesizing fragmented empirical evidence on technology acceptance and service quality factors across diverse contexts. Purpose: This study aimed to quantify relationships between (a) perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, (b) perceived usefulness and behavioral intention, and (c) service quality and user satisfaction in emerging economy e-government contexts. Methods: Following PRISMA 2020 guidelines, we systematically searched Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar (January 2021–October 2024) for peer-reviewed studies reporting standardized path coefficients from structural equation models examining e-government adoption in emerging economies. Two independent reviewers screened 191 records; 15 studies (23 effect sizes; 6732 participants across 10 countries) met inclusion criteria. Three separate random-effects meta-analyses using restricted maximum likelihood estimation assessed pooled effects, heterogeneity, publication bias, and sensitivity to influential observations. Results: Perceived ease of use strongly predicted perceived usefulness (β = 0.385, k = 7, N = 2516), perceived usefulness moderately predicted behavioral intention (β = 0.289, k = 10, N = 3846), and service quality predicted user satisfaction (β = 0.261, k = 6, N = 3151). All effects were statistically significant (p < 0.001) with substantial heterogeneity across studies, and sensitivity analyses confirmed robustness. All prediction intervals remained entirely positive, and sensitivity analyses confirmed robustness. Conclusions: Technology acceptance and service quality constructs consistently predict e-government adoption in emerging economies, though effect sizes are attenuated compared to developed-country benchmarks. The systematic heterogeneity gradient (I²: 89.5%→69.5%→58.4%) indicates that technology acceptance constructs require greater contextual adaptation than service quality dimensions. Policymakers should prioritize interface simplification and address ecosystem barriers to connectivity, digital literacy, and institutional trust alongside system design. Full article

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21 pages, 497 KB

Open AccessArticle

Entrepreneurial Performance of New Ventures in the Sustainable Open Innovation Paradigm

by Fernando Almeida

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020082 - 6 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1541

Abstract

The entrepreneurial performance of new ventures operating within the sustainable open innovation paradigm remains underexplored, particularly in terms of how specific sustainability-oriented practices translate into measurable performance outcomes. Prior research has largely examined sustainability, entrepreneurship, and open innovation in isolation, offering limited empirical [...] Read more.

The entrepreneurial performance of new ventures operating within the sustainable open innovation paradigm remains underexplored, particularly in terms of how specific sustainability-oriented practices translate into measurable performance outcomes. Prior research has largely examined sustainability, entrepreneurship, and open innovation in isolation, offering limited empirical evidence on their combined effects at the early venture stage. To address this gap, this study analyzes panel data from 407 new ventures incubated in science and technology parks, employing regression-based panel data analysis to examine the relationships between sustainable practices, open innovation engagement, and entrepreneurial performance. The findings suggest that new ventures widely adopt sustainable materials and energy as key strategies, which significantly influence entrepreneurial performance. In contrast, support from local communities does not have a statistically significant impact. Among the sociodemographic factors tested, only the number of years participating in open innovation networks shows a significant effect on entrepreneurial performance. Theoretically, this study advances sustainable open innovation literature by empirically integrating sustainability practices into entrepreneurship performance models. From a managerial perspective, the findings offer actionable insights for entrepreneurs and incubator managers, highlighting which sustainability strategies and network engagements are most likely to yield performance benefits in new ventures. Full article

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21 pages, 387 KB

Open AccessArticle

Inclusive Education in Context: A Comparative Analysis of Support Systems for Disabled Students in Pakistani and Kenyan Universities

by Muhammad Qasim Rana, Angela Lee and Lekan Damilola Ojo

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 81; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020081 - 6 Feb 2026

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1770

Abstract

The pursuit of disabled students’ inclusion in higher education remains a significant global concern, particularly in developing nations where systemic and institutional barriers persist. Despite progressive legislative and policy frameworks promoting inclusive education, Kenyan and Pakistani universities continue to encounter structural, financial, and [...] Read more.

The pursuit of disabled students’ inclusion in higher education remains a significant global concern, particularly in developing nations where systemic and institutional barriers persist. Despite progressive legislative and policy frameworks promoting inclusive education, Kenyan and Pakistani universities continue to encounter structural, financial, and attitudinal challenges that hinder equal participation in learning and research for disabled students. This study aims to identify, analyze, and prioritize the complementary support strategies necessary for disabled students’ inclusion in learning and research opportunities in both Kenyan and Pakistani higher education institutions. Employing a quantitative research design, data were gathered through structured questionnaires distributed among disabled students in institutions of higher learning. The data were analyzed using the fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE) approach, which integrates fuzzy logic with descriptive statistics to objectively determine the weight, level of agreement, and internal consistency of the identified support strategies. Among the six support strategies, Physical Facility Support emerged as the most crucial in Pakistan, followed by Attitudinal and Community Support. On the other hand, the Kenyan group indicated Policies and Advocacy as the most essential support strategy for disabled students’ inclusion in higher education. The findings underscore that the two countries differ in how they prioritize support strategies for the inclusion of students with disabilities. This study contributes theoretically by advancing the application of the FSE model within inclusion research, offering a rigorous, data-driven framework for understanding multidimensional support strategies for disabled students. Full article

30 pages, 2053 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Technological Innovation and Sustainability in Public Administration: A Systematic Review and Research Agenda

by Benedetta Pini, Alberto Petroni and Barbara Bigliardi

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 80; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020080 - 5 Feb 2026

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2722

Abstract

This study examines how technological innovation and sustainability jointly reshape contemporary public administration by integrating digital transformation with public value creation. Using a mixed-method approach, we compile a Scopus-based bibliographic dataset and conduct descriptive and network analyses on 199 articles to map publication [...] Read more.

This study examines how technological innovation and sustainability jointly reshape contemporary public administration by integrating digital transformation with public value creation. Using a mixed-method approach, we compile a Scopus-based bibliographic dataset and conduct descriptive and network analyses on 199 articles to map publication trends, methodological patterns, and core keyword clusters. We then perform an in-depth qualitative content analysis of 83 papers, coding public sector domains, actors, technological innovations, and sustainability dimensions. Findings highlight a shift from early e-government, centered on administrative efficiency, toward a paradigm of “sustainable digital governance”, where AI, IoT, blockchain and data analytics drive the twin digital–green transition. Five conceptual clusters and several application domains show that public value increasingly emerges within collaborative ecosystems involving administrations, firms, universities, citizens and digital platforms. The study offers an integrated overview of this evolving field and clarifies technology’s role as an enabling factor in sustainable governance. Building on the review results, we propose the Sustainable Public Innovation Ecosystem (SPIE) framework, which links systemic enablers (technological and sustainability innovation) governance efficiency and sustainable public value through ecosystem dynamics and governance mechanisms. It also outlines a future research agenda on hybrid actors ethical and regulatory issues, and approaches to measuring sustainable public value, providing guidance for scholars and policymakers designing digitally enabled and sustainability-oriented public reforms. Full article

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20 pages, 484 KB

Open AccessArticle

Breaking Under Pressure: How Toxic Work Environments Trigger Musculoskeletal Discomfort Through Stress and Dissatisfaction

by Souad Hassanie, Orhan Uludag and Ayowale Olufemi Olatunde

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 79; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020079 - 5 Feb 2026

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2151

Abstract

Although toxic work environments are acknowledged as harmful, hospitality research rarely explains how toxic work environments translate into musculoskeletal discomfort through psychosocial mechanisms. Therefore, our study addresses that gap by integrating the stimulus–organism–response framework and the conservation of resources theory to examine the [...] Read more.

Although toxic work environments are acknowledged as harmful, hospitality research rarely explains how toxic work environments translate into musculoskeletal discomfort through psychosocial mechanisms. Therefore, our study addresses that gap by integrating the stimulus–organism–response framework and the conservation of resources theory to examine the impact of a toxic work environment on employees’ perceptions of musculoskeletal discomfort mediated by perceived work stress and job dissatisfaction. Data were collected from hotel employees working in Johannesburg, South Africa. The study’s interrelationships were analyzed utilizing structural equation modeling. The results showed that a toxic work environment significantly increases work stress and job dissatisfaction, and that both mechanisms are associated with musculoskeletal discomfort. Moreover, the findings indicated that the indirect effect through job dissatisfaction is stronger than the indirect effect through work stress, suggesting that attitudinal erosion is a key channel linking toxic climate to physical discomfort. Our study is the first to combine the stimulus–organism–response framework and the conservation of resources theory to explain how sensory processes and resource allocation mechanisms would operate in the presence of a toxic environment, influencing employees’ psychological and health-related outcomes. Practically, managers should prioritize anti-toxicity policies, supervisor coaching, confidential reporting channels, and psychosocial support to reduce employee strain. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Building a Resilient Workforce: Strategies for Promoting Mental and Physical Health at Work)

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25 pages, 351 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Rhetoric to Implementation: Embedding the Rule of Law in EU Public Administration and Governance

by Dimitris Kirmikiroglou, Dimitra Tomprou and Paraskevi Boufounou

Adm. Sci. 2026, 16(2), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/admsci16020078 - 5 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3055

Abstract

The rule of law, a foundational value of the European Union as enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union, faces challenges in implementation due to historical and political factors that have evolved over the past decade, particularly within Member States [...] Read more.

The rule of law, a foundational value of the European Union as enshrined in Article 2 of the Treaty on European Union, faces challenges in implementation due to historical and political factors that have evolved over the past decade, particularly within Member States in the administrative domain. While institutional backsliding in countries like Hungary and Poland has drawn significant political attention, less emphasis has been placed on the role of public administrations in upholding or undermining the rule of law on a day-to-day basis. This paper argues that the sustainability of the rule of law in the EU requires more than legal compliance mechanisms. These alone do not address the underlying administrative and cultural factors necessary for effective implementation. Instead, it requires closer attention to how rule-of-law principles are embedded in the everyday functioning of public administrations. This argument is informed by the authors’ systematic examination of recent EU monitoring practices and administrative reform instruments. Adopting a mixed conceptual-empirical methodology, the paper draws on primary data from EU Rule of Law Reports (2020–2024), the EU Justice Scoreboard, the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), and the Technical Support Instrument (TSI), complemented by relevant OECD/SIGMA indicators. Several structural obstacles emerge from the analysis. These include symbolic compliance, whereby organisations adopt formal structures without corresponding behavioural change; weak institutional leadership that fails to drive reform momentum; and the absence of integrated performance metrics, which hampers meaningful accountability. Fragmented ownership of reform agendas, in turn, breeds inconsistency in implementation. These challenges point to the limitations of a technocratic or legalistic approach to rule-of-law governance. Strategic leadership and organisational flexibility emerge from the evidence as preconditions—not merely facilitators—of genuine internalisation, though the relationship is context-dependent. Digitalisation can reinforce these dynamics, yet its contribution depends on whether it is embedded within broader integrity-oriented reforms. The paper advocates for a shift from externalized compliance mechanisms to a model that emphasizes administrative ownership through specific strategies such as developing integrity-based leadership programs and embedding governance practices that prioritize transparency and accountability. It proposes concrete institutional reforms, including performance-linked conditionalities that tie funding to measurable outcomes, ethical leadership academies to train future leaders, integrity audits to ensure accountability, and administrative benchmarking to set clear standards, as tools to foster autonomous, value-driven public institutions capable of adapting to evolving governance challenges while maintaining core democratic values. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Developments in Public Administration and Governance)

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