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Open AccessEditorial

Preface of the 1st International Online Conference on Administrative Sciences (IOCAS 2026)

by Isabel María García Sánchez

Proceedings 2026, 140(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026140009 - 17 Aug 2026

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Abstract

The 1st International Online Conference on Administrative Sciences (IOCAS 2026) was hosted online from 4 to 5 February 2026 [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 1st International Online Conference on Administrative Sciences (IOCAS 2026))

1 pages, 122 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Statement of Peer Review

by Isabel María García Sánchez

Proceedings 2026, 140(1), 10; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026140010 - 17 Aug 2026

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In submitting conference proceedings to Proceedings, the volume editors of the proceedings certify to the publisher that all papers published in this volume have been subjected to peer review administered by the volume editors [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 1st International Online Conference on Administrative Sciences (IOCAS 2026))

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8 pages, 626 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Disruptive Technologies and Workforce Transformation: The Mediating Role of HR Strategy

by Ioannis Zervas and Emmanouil Stiakakis

Proceedings 2026, 140(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026140001 - 24 Apr 2026

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Abstract

This study examines how disruptive technologies reshape workforce skill requirements and organizational responses. As tools such as Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, and cloud infrastructures become embedded in everyday operations, employees increasingly confront evolving competence demands. Drawing on data from 622 employees [...] Read more.

This study examines how disruptive technologies reshape workforce skill requirements and organizational responses. As tools such as Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things, and cloud infrastructures become embedded in everyday operations, employees increasingly confront evolving competence demands. Drawing on data from 622 employees across Greece, Spain, and Italy, the study proposes and tests a structural model linking disruptive technology exposure with perceived skill gaps, organizational readiness, strategic HR alignment, and skill update intention. The findings show that disruptive technology exposure is positively associated with perceived skill gaps, which in turn relate to organizational readiness, strategic HR alignment, and stronger skill update intention. These results highlight the importance of coordinated organizational and HR mechanisms in supporting continuous learning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 1st International Online Conference on Administrative Sciences (IOCAS 2026))

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6 pages, 1692 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Role of Learning by Doing in Fostering Social Entrepreneurial Competence and Intention: A Case Study of Enactus Morocco

by Noura Samadi and Omar Boubker

Proceedings 2026, 140(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026140002 - 1 Jun 2026

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Abstract

Social entrepreneurship is increasingly recognized for its dual ability to address societal issues while maintaining economic value and long-term sustainability. Within this context, Learning by Doing (LBD) has been widely recognized as an effective experiential learning approach for fostering social entrepreneurial intention (SEI). [...] Read more.

Social entrepreneurship is increasingly recognized for its dual ability to address societal issues while maintaining economic value and long-term sustainability. Within this context, Learning by Doing (LBD) has been widely recognized as an effective experiential learning approach for fostering social entrepreneurial intention (SEI). However, limited research has examined how LBD operates within structured environments in the Global South. This study investigates Enactus Morocco as a structured LBD ecosystem. Adopting a qualitative exploratory design, data were collected through eleven interviews, capturing both beneficiary and organizational perspectives. The findings confirm the significant role of LBD in fostering EC and SEI, while highlighting the importance of supportive learning environments. Additionally, emergent relational and emotional variables are identified and structured through the Stimulus–Organism–Response (S-O-R) model. These results extend current understanding of experiential entrepreneurial learning and provide a foundation for future quantitative validation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 1st International Online Conference on Administrative Sciences (IOCAS 2026))

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8 pages, 546 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Challenges and Opportunities of SME Digitalization: The Case of Albania

by Eriona Shtëmbari

Proceedings 2026, 140(1), 3; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026140003 - 4 Jun 2026

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Abstract

Digital transformation is a must to remain competitive in today’s advanced technological environment. This study examines how digitalization influences the performance of SMEs in Albania, focusing on digital adoption, skills, training, and institutional support. Using survey data from SMEs in Tirana, based on [...] Read more.

Digital transformation is a must to remain competitive in today’s advanced technological environment. This study examines how digitalization influences the performance of SMEs in Albania, focusing on digital adoption, skills, training, and institutional support. Using survey data from SMEs in Tirana, based on the Technology–Organization–Environment (TOE) framework and Dynamic Capability Theory, the study aims to investigate the extent of digital service adoption by these organizations. The findings show a positive association between the degree of digital adoption by SMEs and various performance indicators. However, SMEs mainly adopt digital tools and processes without undertaking a complete digital transformation. Multiple barriers prevent SMEs from adopting digital technologies. Despite the digital training offered to SME employees, there is no correlation between the training and the adoption of these digital technologies. The study makes various contributions to the literature on the digital transformation of SMEs and has implications for policy making in the context of the transition economies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 1st International Online Conference on Administrative Sciences (IOCAS 2026))

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6 pages, 386 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

The Mexican Agricultural Policy Observatory (MAPO): A Digital Governance Tool for Evidence-Based Public Policy

by Jorge Alberto Romero-Hidalgo, Ricardo Alberto Rodríguez-Ojeda, Paula Concepción Isiordia-Lachica and Ricardo Alberto Rodríguez-Carvajal

Proceedings 2026, 140(1), 4; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026140004 - 8 Jun 2026

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Abstract

Agricultural public policy analysis in Mexico is hampered by data fragmentation across 32 decentralized state agencies. This study presents the Mexican Agricultural Policy Observatory (MAPO), a digital governance tool developed using R-Shiny to centralize and visualize policy information. Through a systematic audit and [...] Read more.

Agricultural public policy analysis in Mexico is hampered by data fragmentation across 32 decentralized state agencies. This study presents the Mexican Agricultural Policy Observatory (MAPO), a digital governance tool developed using R-Shiny to centralize and visualize policy information. Through a systematic audit and functional classification adapted from World Bank frameworks, 429 were analyzed. Results indicate a significant concentration in financing (42%) and a critical gap in commercialization support. MAPO enhances transparency and enables evidence-based policymaking by cross-referencing policy data with production metrics, facilitating the identification of regional priorities and strategic opportunities for integrated agricultural development. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 1st International Online Conference on Administrative Sciences (IOCAS 2026))

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14 pages, 836 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Emotional Intelligence Revisited: Leadership Adaptation in Environments Mediated by Intelligent Technologies

by Nikos Koutsoupias and Marios Nosios

Proceedings 2026, 140(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026140005 - 2 Jul 2026

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Abstract

This study examines the role of emotional intelligence in leadership contexts mediated by intelligent technologies, focusing on how socio-emotional processes are shaped within digital communication environments and artificial intelligence-enabled systems. Situated at the intersection of leadership and technological transformation, the study aims to [...] Read more.

This study examines the role of emotional intelligence in leadership contexts mediated by intelligent technologies, focusing on how socio-emotional processes are shaped within digital communication environments and artificial intelligence-enabled systems. Situated at the intersection of leadership and technological transformation, the study aims to clarify the thematic structure and intellectual development of this emerging research domain. A systematic bibliometric approach is employed, drawing on data from the Scopus database for 2004–2026 and integrating descriptive analysis, keyword co-occurrence mapping, and co-citation techniques. The results suggest a rapidly expanding yet fragmented body of literature structured around three principal trajectories: leadership in virtual and distributed environments, the integration of emotional processes with intelligent systems, and competence-based approaches linked to digital transformation. Across these strands, emotional intelligence is consistently associated with communication, trust, and team effectiveness, while conditions of mediated interaction increasingly shape its role. The findings further reveal a degree of conceptual dispersion alongside the absence of a standardized vocabulary. Overall, the study concludes that emotional intelligence remains central to leadership effectiveness but is reconfigured as a context-dependent capability embedded within sociotechnical systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 1st International Online Conference on Administrative Sciences (IOCAS 2026))

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13 pages, 352 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Evaluating the Impact of Pakistan’s “Digital Pakistan” Initiative on Public Service Delivery

by Saba Farah, Hadia Safeer Choudhry and Mahnoor Javed

Proceedings 2026, 140(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026140006 - 6 Jul 2026

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Abstract

Digital Pakistan is a pivotal move towards bridging the gap between old bureaucratic methods and new ones, offering a technologically advanced, modernized form of administration for the masses. This paper will critically analyze the initiative’s effects on the delivery of social services to [...] Read more.

Digital Pakistan is a pivotal move towards bridging the gap between old bureaucratic methods and new ones, offering a technologically advanced, modernized form of administration for the masses. This paper will critically analyze the initiative’s effects on the delivery of social services to the population through a methodical SWOT analysis, highlighting existing shortcomings, such as insufficient infrastructure and the digital divide, that limit access for all. Based on a qualitative study using secondary data (2018–2024), it was found that although the adoption of more than 40 e-governance solutions and the Digital Pakistan Hub has led to an increase in transparency and responsiveness of the administration, there still remain great threats, such as security breaches in the cyber-sphere and a 67 percent gender gap in access to the Internet. The findings emphasize that although digital tools have helped ease bureaucracy, they are not very effective because of unequal digital literacy. This means that the paper advocates inclusive policymaking that focuses on boosting digital equity and infrastructural resilience to achieve sustainable public-sector reforms. The findings offer a practical roadmap for policymakers to bridge the technological vision with citizen-centric service delivery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 1st International Online Conference on Administrative Sciences (IOCAS 2026))

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30 pages, 333 KB

Open AccessConference Report

Abstracts of the 1st International Online Conference on Administrative Sciences (IOCAS 2026)

by Isabel María García Sánchez

Proceedings 2026, 140(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026140007 - 23 Jul 2026

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Abstract

The 1st International Online Conference on Administrative Sciences (IOCAS 2026) was hosted online from 4 to 5 February 2026. This conference presented the latest studies in public management, leadership, strategic management and entrepreneurship. The goal was to examine, explore and critically engage with [...] Read more.

The 1st International Online Conference on Administrative Sciences (IOCAS 2026) was hosted online from 4 to 5 February 2026. This conference presented the latest studies in public management, leadership, strategic management and entrepreneurship. The goal was to examine, explore and critically engage with issues and advances in these areas. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 1st International Online Conference on Administrative Sciences (IOCAS 2026))

17 pages, 2552 KB

Open AccessProceeding Paper

Cognitive Extensions in Entrepreneurship: A Systematic Review of Artificial Intelligence as a Support System for Entrepreneurial Thinking

by Aristidis Bitzenis, Nikos Koutsoupias and Marios Nosios

Proceedings 2026, 140(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/proceedings2026140008 - 10 Aug 2026

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Abstract

As entrepreneurial environments become increasingly data-intensive, this study examines the literature on artificial intelligence in entrepreneurship through the perspective of cognitive extension. Positioned at the intersection of entrepreneurship and intelligent systems, it investigates the thematic structure and intellectual evolution of this research domain [...] Read more.

As entrepreneurial environments become increasingly data-intensive, this study examines the literature on artificial intelligence in entrepreneurship through the perspective of cognitive extension. Positioned at the intersection of entrepreneurship and intelligent systems, it investigates the thematic structure and intellectual evolution of this research domain through a systematic bibliometric approach based on Scopus data (1990–2026), incorporating descriptive analysis, keyword co-occurrence mapping, and citation-based techniques. The findings suggest that the literature is organized around artificial intelligence, machine learning, and entrepreneurship, with a pronounced emphasis on decision-making in early-stage venture contexts. Highly cited contributions consistently frame artificial intelligence as a decision-support mechanism that enhances predictive capacity and information processing while remaining contingent upon human judgment. The results further indicate a field characterized by rapid expansion, increasing collaboration, and substantial conceptual diversity. Overall, the study interprets these developments through the cognitive extension perspective, suggesting that the literature increasingly conceptualizes artificial intelligence as a complementary resource that supports, rather than substitutes for, entrepreneurial reasoning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Proceedings of The 1st International Online Conference on Administrative Sciences (IOCAS 2026))

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