Psychological Contract and Young Talent Retention in Vietnam: Development and Validation of a Hierarchical Reflective Structural Model
How Does Organisational Culture Affect Employees’ Perception of the Brand in Service Industries?
Wine Tourism, Designations of Origin and Business Performance: An Analysis Applied to the Valencian Community Wine Industry
Green Technology Innovation and Financial Services System: Evidence from China
Evaluating Leaders’ Strategic Thinking and Entrepreneurial Characteristics Using Semantic Analysis

Journal Description

Businesses

Businesses is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on business published quarterly online by MDPI.

Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
High Visibility: indexed within RePEc, and other databases.
Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 16.2 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 5.5 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the first half of 2023).
Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.

Imprint Information Journal Flyer Open Access ISSN: 2673-7116

Latest Articles

Open AccessPerspective

Challenges Faced in Dental Care Delivery Amid Financial Crisis in Sri Lanka: An Evidence-Based Analysis from the Perspective of Health Professionals

Yovanthi Anurangi Jayasinghe

Shalindu Malshan Jayawickrama

Sakuntha Ratnapreya

Rasika Manori Jayasinghe

Dileep De Silva

and

Ruwan Duminda Jayasinghe

Businesses 2023, 3(4), 524-533; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3040032 - 22 Sep 2023

Abstract

Over the years, Sri Lanka achieved excellent scores in health indicators relative to the national expenditure on health. However, due to several challenging situations such as the 2019 Easter bombings, COVID-19 pandemic and economic crisis, there was a depletion of the GDP as well as rising inflation. This created a humanitarian crisis for all socioeconomic groups. Among them, the health sector was widely affected, including healthcare providers and healthcare recipients. The objective of this study was to elaborate on the challenges faced in dental care delivery by private general dental practitioners and the impact on dental education for undergraduate and postgraduate dental students during the economic crisis. A descriptive cross-sectional survey-based questionnaire (n = 28) was conducted and assessed among the dental surgeons of various districts in Sri Lanka. An interviewer-based questionnaire was carried out via telephone conversation by the principal investigator of dental surgeons for those who managed and owned the respective dental clinic. Data from the computed questionnaires were analyzed using the SPSS Statistical Software Package (SPSS, Version 21). Descriptive statistics were expressed as frequency distributions and percentages. Based on the results, a significant decrease was observed in the number of patients requesting restorative dental procedures including implant crowns (36.29%), implant over dentures (35.63%), crowns (39.03%), bridges (49.12%), amalgam restorations (47.38%), composite restorations (42.11%) and dentures (49.69%). In surgical dental treatment, the extractions and surgical removal of teeth were reduced by 2.11% and 43.71%, respectively. The availability of dental materials such as light care composite (LCC) bonding, silver amalgam, impression materials and surgical consumables was reduced in the post-economic crisis situation compared to the pre-economic crisis status. Furthermore, dental laboratory charges per item, fees per procedure, salaries to support staff, utility bills including electricity and water, payments to government bodies, travelling costs to the clinic (for the doctor) and other expenses have increased in the post-economic period. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of a Multipart Implicit Bias Educational Program Designed for a Non-Profit Organization

Devin Naidoo

Andrea Echarri-Gonzalez

and

Businesses 2023, 3(3), 507-523; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030031 - 20 Sep 2023

Abstract

Children’s access and opportunities to play sports are influenced by categories of difference, such as gender, race, and socioeconomic status. In order to provide an inclusive community and facilitate the recruitment and retention of diverse youth, athletic organizations should be aware of implicit bias and how this can affect the relationship between volunteers and the children they serve. This paper presents a formative process evaluation of a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) training program for a non-profit athletic organization. Training was implemented in person in a group setting with multiple opportunities for group discussion. Mixed methods were used to monitor (1) the implementation of training, (2) its effects on attitudes throughout training, and (3) impact one month after training. Findings demonstrate that the program increased participants’ ability to identify DEI initiatives and sense of belonging to the organization, but these effects had declined by the end of the first month after training. However, participants’ self-beliefs regarding DEI and overall willingness to engage in DEI activities remained enhanced one month after training. Qualitative data were helpful in providing insight into how training impacted participants and their interactions within and outside of the organization. Through this mixed methods approach, we can conclude that DEI training did in fact have a positive impact on the organization, but further evaluation and training may be necessary to address the decline in some effects seen one month after training. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Accounting for Climate When Determining the Impact of Weather on Retail Sales

Stanko Dimitrov

Régis Y. Chenavaz

and

Octavio Escobar

Businesses 2023, 3(3), 489-506; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030030 - 11 Sep 2023

Abstract

In this paper, we explore the importance of accounting for climate when determining the impact of weather on product sales. Using a France-wide scanner panel dataset provided by our industry partner, we show that if climate is not accounted for, product categories may be misclassified as being weather sensitive when they are not, and vice versa. This is motivated by previous research and industry reports that suggest a relationship between weather and retail sales. However, these studies often fail to distinguish between weather and climate, leading to inaccurate conclusions. Our results highlight the need to control for climate in order to accurately assess the effects of weather on retail sales. We use ordinary least squares regression to estimate the relationship between temperature and sales for 29 different product categories. The regression models control for various factors, including shelf space allocation, week of observation, quantity purchased, promotion, store brand, store surface area, store competition, and consumer behavior measures. We find that when accounting for climate, only a subset of the product categories is sensitive to weather. Additionally, we show that climate can be approximated using a week index, eliminating the need for additional data collection and approximation efforts. Our findings have implications for both researchers and practitioners. Researchers should be aware of the importance of accounting for climate when studying the impact of weather on retail sales, as failing to do so may lead to erroneous conclusions. Practitioners can use our results to inform their marketing and sales strategies, taking into account the weather sensitivity of different product categories and the role of climate in shaping consumer behavior. Overall, our study emphasizes the need to consider climate when determining the impact of weather on retail sales, and provides practical insights for retailers and economists. Full article

Open AccessArticle

Unraveling Interconnections: Analyzing the Impact of a Founder’s Characteristics on Business Growth Strategy

Ying Liu

and

Martyn Polkinghorne

Businesses 2023, 3(3), 475-488; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030029 - 08 Sep 2023

Abstract

This study examines the influence of founder characteristics on the selection of business growth strategies in companies undergoing an initial public offering (IPO). The research is based upon quantitative analysis of data from entrepreneur-led IPOs on the London Stock Exchange. The study investigates the impact of founder’s work experience, external directorships, education, age, ownership, and the presence of a founder–CEO, on the choice between mergers and acquisitions (M&A) and research and development (R&D) as growth strategies. The results show that founders with a throughput functional background and extensive external directorships are more likely to adopt M&A as a growth strategy. Moreover, founders with higher education levels and a PhD are more inclined towards R&D investment. The findings also suggest that older founders are more likely to invest in R&D, whilst higher levels of ownership tends to deter R&D expenditure. Interestingly, the presence of a founder–CEO is associated with a lower likelihood of investing in R&D and a higher propensity for M&A, although these correlations are not statistically significant. These results shed light on the influence of founder characteristics on strategic decision-making during the IPO stage and provide implications for understanding the dynamics of business growth strategies in transitioning companies. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Cultural Intelligence, Firm Capabilities, and Performance: The Case of German Subsidiaries in Malaysia

Bienvenido S. Cortes

and

Zhengyao Ooi

Businesses 2023, 3(3), 460-474; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030028 - 07 Sep 2023

Abstract

The extant literature shows that firm capabilities such as knowledge transfer and innovation are highly related to firm performance. How these relationships express themselves for foreign-based firms operating in global environments is less understood. The objectives of this study are as follows: (1) to examine the differential effects of knowledge transfer and innovation on the performance of German-based companies operating in Malaysia; (2) to determine if these relationships and effects operate via an “intervening variable” or mediator, in this case, competitive advantage; and (3) to determine if another latent variable (cultural intelligence) has an altering or “moderating” influence on the effects of innovation and knowledge transfer on competitive advantage. Analyses of the causal relationships are tested using a sample of 475 respondents working in German subsidiaries in Malaysia and applying a structural equation model. The empirical findings indicate that innovation and knowledge transfer are positively and significantly related to German companies’ overall performance, that these effects are mediated by competitive advantage, and that cultural intelligence interacts with innovation and knowledge transfer to affect the strength of the relationships between innovation (knowledge transfer) and competitive advantage. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Development and Business Strategies: An Exploratory Study of Greek Businesses

Spyridon A. Bafas

Alexandra P. Alexandropoulou

Andreas E. Fousteris

Eleni A. Didaskalou

and

Dimitrios A. Georgakellos

Businesses 2023, 3(3), 441-459; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030027 - 11 Aug 2023

Abstract

The purpose of the present study is threefold: (a) it examines how Greek businesses perceive the concept of sustainability, (b) it investigates the implementation of sustainable development practices in Greek businesses, and (c) it examines if there is a correlation between sustainable development practices adopted by businesses and the competitive advantage of businesses. Furthermore, reference is made to concepts like sustainability, the Triple Bottom Line (TBL), and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In addition, the TBL for sustainable business practices and the viability of measurement systems are examined. For this study, a survey was conducted using a questionnaire composed of five sections, which was addressed to Greek companies operating in various sectors. A total of 150 questionnaires were sent out and responses were received from 34 enterprises. An analysis of the data from field research confirms that Greek companies perceive sustainability as a transformation catalyst for businesses and have adopted sustainability practices. Furthermore, there is a moderate correlation between the economic and social pillar of sustainability and the competitive advantage of organisations. The study aims to provide a deeper understanding of factors that influence the adoption of sustainable practices in Greek enterprises. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

A Sectorial Validation and Application of a Conceptual Framework for Creating a Brand Management Strategy

and

Businesses 2023, 3(3), 424-440; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030026 - 17 Jul 2023

Cited by 1

Abstract

Brands can be one of a company’s most valuable intangible assets and a lever to generate value. As a source of added value, a brand should be strategically built and managed. To fully take advantage of the benefits that the brand provides, it is necessary to propose a brand management strategy. A conceptual framework was developed by the authors as an alternative to propose a brand management strategy according to a specific business scenario. The objective of this study is to validate this conceptual framework and apply it to propose a brand management strategy in a specific business scenario. For this purpose, a sectorial cross-validation was developed by triangulating the application of the framework to two data collection methods: (1) interviews and (2) a literature review. The results suggested that decomposing a complex business scenario into single-dimensioned business scenarios can help to propose, enhance, or reframe a brand strategy. The results also suggested that some brand dimensions can be used to lever other brand dimensions, such as brand relationship, which is at the top of CEO/CMO priorities in this field. This work contributes to theory by cross-validating the conceptual framework for creating brand management strategies through triangulation. Full article

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Open AccessReview

Bibliometric Analysis on the Application of Fuzzy Logic into Marketing Strategy

Albérico Travassos Rosário

Joana Carmo Dias

and

Hélder Ferreira

Businesses 2023, 3(3), 402-423; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030025 - 05 Jul 2023

Abstract

Fuzzy marketing considers the degree to which a customer belongs to specific segments and subsequently allows them to be targeted with messages that engage them emotionally. To better understand the application and importance of fuzzy logic in marketing strategy, we developed a systematic literature review with bibliometric analysis to examine a sample of 96 studies from the SCOPUS database to identify research activity on this topic until December 2022. It was possible to create a connection between these concepts, marketing and fuzzy logic, to increase the efforts of marketing professionals. For instance, the results show that adopting approaches such as fuzzy marketing or the fuzzy marketing mix model enhances the company’s capability to build stronger customer relationships, enhance profitability, and improve marketing performance. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

How to Support Expanding Sales Channels of Agri-Food Products in New Markets: Healthiness and New Experiences of Tunisian Olive Oil

Hiroko Oe

and

Yasuyuki Yamaoka

Businesses 2023, 3(3), 382-401; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3030024 - 30 Jun 2023

Abstract

This study addresses the empirical problem of improving sales channels in countries like Tunisia, with a specific focus on the sales channels of Tunisian olive oil. The authors aim to explore this problem within the theoretical framework of sales channels and emphasize the contribution of their research to enhancing sales channels and accessing new markets for Tunisian olive oil. To achieve these goals, the authors conducted a study with a specific research objective: to examine the factors influencing consumer behavior and perceptions towards olive oil. By doing so, this research contributes to a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities of expanding sales channels and supports the development of sustainable agribusiness. Additionally, the authors highlight the importance of advertising healthy food with good quality based on an ethical production process that emphasizes accountability and transparency. They argue that these ethical practices can serve as competitive strengths for agri-food producers in emerging markets as they explore new market opportunities. Overall, this research not only addresses the need for improving sales channels in Tunisia but also provides insights into consumer behavior, highlights the significance of ethical production processes, and supports the competitiveness of agri-food producers in emerging markets. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Designing Dynamic Sustainable Business Models to Assess the Feasibility of an Industrial Symbiosis: The Case of the Retro-Port Area of Trieste

Laura Bordoli

Giovanni Scire’

and

Francesca Rossi

Businesses 2023, 3(2), 368-381; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3020023 - 14 Jun 2023

Cited by 1

Abstract

This study evaluates the managerial sustainability of implementing a decision support system for industrial symbiosis through a recent business modeling methodology. The decision support system is intended to facilitate the identification of implementable industrial symbiosis good practices in a pilot project located in the industrial retro-port area of Trieste. To evaluate the feasibility of this project, a qualitative “Dynamic business model canvas for sustainability” was designed and supported by a system dynamics approach using causal loop diagrams. The study analyzed various governance scenarios for managing the decision support system (public, private, or public–private partnership) and the financing system. The analysis concludes by discussing the research limitations of this study and future opportunities, emphasizing the importance of a resilient system that can handle operational and regulatory shocks, given the project’s public relevance. Further study opportunities could be provided through quantitative simulations and potential numerical validations with stakeholders in the local area, considering potential regulatory constraints. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Examining the Impact of Gender Discriminatory Practices on Women’s Development and Progression at Work

Gaelle Fitong Ketchiwou

and

Lineo Winifred Dzansi

Businesses 2023, 3(2), 347-367; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3020022 - 12 Jun 2023

Abstract

Although there has been a worldwide cry for gender equity within organizations, gender discriminatory practices continue to be a challenge. Many women still suffer from gender discrimination and remain at the bottom of organizational structures despite their efforts to ascend. This paper seeks to examine the link between gender discriminatory practices and women’s skill development and progression within the workplace. The study espoused a quantitative approach. A questionnaire survey was self-administered online to 412 women through a convenient non-probability sampling method. Descriptive tendencies, test normality, validity, reliability, and regression analysis were performed using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS), AMOS 27. The results reveal that women’s skill development is impacted by workplace gender discriminatory practices, and the career progression of women is linked to their skill development. Yet it rejects the claim that workplace gender discriminatory practices impact women’s career progression. While having a gender-friendly work environment is applaudable, developing women’s skills and promoting their advancement at work will require more effort from companies. Organizations need to be deliberate about the skills development and career progression of women and institutionalize initiatives that directly encourage women to engage in developmental activities as well as initiatives geared towards promoting women’s career advancement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Women’s Special Issue Series: Business)

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Open AccessArticle

Innovation Pattern Heterogeneity and Crisis Resilience

Marina Rybalka

and

Michael Spjelkavik Mark

Businesses 2023, 3(2), 323-346; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3020021 - 31 May 2023

Abstract

We use the new taxonomy for innovative firms developed based on microlevel data from the Community Innovation Survey (CIS2018) on a sample of 6360 Norwegian firms, and information on users of COVID-19-related compensation schemes for firms with significant loss of turnover and furloughed employees to analyse how resilient different innovative firms have been to the crisis (in both the short and the long run). By using different probabilistic regression models, we study the probability of firms being affected negatively during the pandemic period between March 2020 and February 2022 covering three waves of societal restrictions in Norway. Our main assumption is that all firms were hit by a shock at an early stage due to a complete lockdown in March 2020, but that firms were more resilient if they either did not use the compensation schemes or used them for a briefer period than the less resilient firms. We find “active R&D doers” to be most resilient, while “strategic adapters” (firms with a main strategy of producing high-quality products for a specific group of customers) are found to be least resilient. These results imply that pre-existing innovation capabilities are important for meeting the crisis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crisis Management and Innovations Challenges)

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Open AccessArticle

The Relationship between the Service Quality of IPTV Home Training and Consumers’ Exercise Satisfaction and Continuous Use during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Taesoo Cho

Taeyoung Cho

and

Hao Zhang

Businesses 2023, 3(2), 310-322; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3020020 - 30 May 2023

Abstract

This study aims to provide operators with measures for successful IPTV utilisation by identifying the quality of IPTV services for home training and analysing the relationship between consumers’ exercise satisfaction and continuous use to respond to the COVID-19 era. To achieve the research purpose, people who exercise at home using IPTV home training pro-grams were selected as the sample population. The relationship between efficiency, availability, security, and practicability, which are sub-factors of the service quality of IPTV home training, was analysed for exercise satisfaction and continuous use. The analysis methods include frequency analysis and Cronbach’s α using SPSS 20.0 and AMOS 20.0. Validation was conducted through correlation analysis, confirmatory factor analysis, and structural equation model analysis. In addition, Harman’s one-factor verification was conducted to determine the common method bias. All statistically significant levels were set at the p < 0.05 level. The results show that efficiency, availability, security, and practicability have a positive effect on exercise satisfaction, and exercise satisfaction has a positive effect on continuous use. First, during COVID-19, IPTV plays an important role in helping consumers exercise at home and indoors. Second, the subjects of this study showed that individuals 40 years old and older are exercising the most. Therefore, it is assumed that consumers will continue to participate if they provide programs that young people can do. Third, since various human disasters, natural disasters, and other un-predictable phenomena such as COVID-19 are occurring worldwide, policymakers should try to activate programs such as IPTV’s home training that can be done indoors. Full article

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Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Effects of Corporate Social Responsibility on Online Recruitment Processes in the Vietnamese Food and Beverage Industry

Kudrat Khuda

Hong Chau Linh Nguyen

and

Dieu Hack-Polay

Businesses 2023, 3(2), 293-309; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3020019 - 19 May 2023

Abstract

This paper examines the effect of CSR perceptions on online recruitment practices and outcomes in the Vietnamese food and beverage sector. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seventeen participants, including CEOs, HR (human resource) staff and store managers. The results show that CSR perception varies and is exemplified through employee-related activities, ethical products, environment, philanthropy, and international standards. The study is novel in establishing that, despite high unemployment in developing economies, CSR communication in online recruitment sites impacts job applicants’ choice of company. While the strategic potency of CSR has been established, this study brings to light its critical significance for human resources processes, particularly online recruitment, in an emerging economy context. The study has considerable implications for practitioners and researchers, suggesting the necessity to strategically manage the interface between CSR and online recruitment. Full article

Open AccessArticle

The Role of Digital Marketing in Tourism Businesses: An Empirical Investigation in Greece

Anastasia Velentza

and

Theodore Metaxas

Businesses 2023, 3(2), 272-292; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3020018 - 19 Apr 2023

Cited by 1

Abstract

For the tourism industry, the COVID-19 pandemic has acted as an accelerator towards the 4th industrial revolution by creating new and innovative solutions, which have transformed management, finance, planning and opened new avenues for the introduction of innovative sales and marketing technologies. As the tourism industry in Greece faces significant challenges and opportunities posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, additional needs have arisen for tourism businesses, as confirmed in this research, to adapt faster to digital operations and strengthen digital marketing through multi-channel distribution and use of digital assistants. This study aims to investigate the use of digital marketing tools by tourism companies as well as the overall satisfaction of the companies with its use and the areas of impact of digital marketing from the COVID-19 pandemic, and then to highlight all those features that stand out from those of their competitors, as well as the creation of an appropriate marketing strategy that will ensure the flow of new customers and increased revenue. To meet this purpose, an empirical survey was conducted in tourism companies in order to provide answers to research questions. As tourism businesses have not yet made sufficient use of digital media as a strategic marketing tool, this research is the basis for further research into the use of technology and digital tools to reach customers and create a more personalized experience for them. Full article

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Influence of Total Quality Management on Customer Satisfaction in the Telecom Industry: A TQM–SERVQUAL Perspective

Michael Owusu-Kyei

Yusheng Kong

Michael Owusu Akomeah

and

Stephen Owusu Afriyie

Businesses 2023, 3(2), 251-271; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3020017 - 12 Apr 2023

Abstract

Total quality management (TQM) has become a reliable quality and customer satisfaction approach that can meet or exceed customer satisfaction. Previous studies have not really tied total quality management in the aspects of SERVQUAL as the major influence on customer satisfaction in the Ghanaian telecommunication sector, thus the need for this research. As customer satisfaction continues to rise, telecommunication customers expect service quality to improve to meet their satisfaction. The quality of service determines the customer satisfaction level in a service industry, such as telecom. Effective total quality management would result in better service quality. SERVQUAL is arguably the model to assess the effectiveness of customer satisfaction in the service industry. The aim of this study is to assess the influence of total quality management on customer satisfaction in the telecom industry from a TQM–SERVQUAL perspective. The study relied on questionnaires to gather data about the TQM services on customer satisfaction. A self-completion questionnaire was administered to customers and employees of MTN Ghana and Vodafone Ghana. Both companies operate with the same procedures and equipment, hence the need to use the same apparatus for all contacted customers and employees. There were 800 respondents from both companies’ employees and customers, although 850 questionnaires were administered. Descriptive statistical analysis was used through the questionnaire. The investigators also ran preliminary tests such as reliability, validity, and multicollinearity tests to ascertain if the received data were reasonable enough for the research and would fit the expected model. The data collected were analyzed and the inference was drawn in the study. The key finding states that total quality management had a significant impact on service quality and customer satisfaction. It is also concluded that service quality has a positive influence on customer satisfaction. Moreover, service quality has been detected as a major variable of TQM in achieving customer satisfaction in telecommunication companies in Ghana. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inclusive and Innovative Businesses and Sustainability: New Trends in Challenging Times and the Path to Performance and Excellence)

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Open AccessArticle

Revealing Integrated Product and Geographical Diversification Trajectories in Multinational Pharmaceutical Enterprises

Ranjit Gupta

Maya Gianchandani

Cristian Mejia

Yogesh B. Gianchandani

and

Yuya Kajikawa

Businesses 2023, 3(2), 231-250; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3020016 - 12 Apr 2023

Abstract

Multinational Enterprises (MNEs) periodically decide on both which products to launch (or phase out) and in which global regions, thereby conducting an integrated products-countries consideration in diversification strategies. Over time, these diversification decisions can have a cumulative impact on the structure. Diversification literature has primarily focused on one of these two metrics rather than providing an integrated view; this work investigates both metrics. Considering deal-making as an execution instrument of strategies, a comparison of historic deals of MNEs with their current structure offers insights into the nature of the diversification strategies that were pursued. For the most active global deal-making pharmaceutical firms, we derive normalized deal diversity profile metrics in terms of their cumulative past product-countries’ preferences and compare them with the product-countries’ operations of their current subsidiaries. We rationalize MNE deal behaviors as means to shed, acquire and consolidate businesses to enable their market leadership aspirations. The analysis reveals two trajectories that have been actively favored in deals: one directed at niche products offered globally, and one directed at niche products in selected countries. The former is characterized by deals in a high number of countries, whereas the latter by two identifiably different product concentration levels. In contrast, trajectories directed at widely diverse products have been disfavored in deals. Understanding such directions and their pace can aid in global- or group-level strategy formulation, monitoring strategy execution, interpreting competitor moves and designing regional policies. Full article

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Open AccessCommunication

A Conceptual Framework for the Technological Advancement of E-Commerce Applications

Snezhana Sulova

Businesses 2023, 3(1), 220-230; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3010015 - 16 Mar 2023

Abstract

E-commerce is an area in which success largely depends on the e-commerce applications used. Currently, there are many studies that focus on various technological innovations in e-commerce systems, but a comprehensive concept of their improvement is lacking. In this regard, the main objective of the article was to explore the technological possibilities for the improvement of e-commerce systems and to propose a conceptual framework for their maintenance and development. The chosen research approach included a combined methodology–text mining analysis of existing developments and identifying the key themes and trends in papers and deep scientific analyses of the most-cited developments. As a result, a conceptual framework for the maintenance and development of e-commerce applications was proposed. To test the approach, publications from the scientific literature database Scopus, on the topic “e-commerce applications” were used. Experiments and text processing were performed with the software RapidMiner Studio. Several main directions for the development of e-commerce systems have been defined: the application of modern development tools; the technological base; and the possibilities of integration. Future research may focus on detailing each direction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Practices in E-Commerce and E-Management)

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Open AccessArticle

Innovation and Technology in Hospitality Sector: Outcome and Performance

Francisco-Jose Molina-Castillo

Angel-Luis Meroño-Cerdán

Carolina Lopez-Nicolas

and

Laura Fernandez-Espinar

Businesses 2023, 3(1), 198-219; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3010014 - 23 Feb 2023

Abstract

This article aims to explain the innovative behaviour of large Spanish companies by comparing the hospitality industry with other service providers and industrial manufacturers. Several hypotheses are proposed and tested for different innovation stages: innovation effort, outcome and performance. The sample includes 2944 Spanish companies with 200 or more employees. Using one-way ANOVA analysis, this study fills an important gap in the impact of innovation and technology on the performance of the hospitality sector. The results show that catering establishments have differentiated innovation behaviours not only to manufacturers but also compared to service providers. The findings support the hypothesis and suggest that hotel companies complement in-house R&D with other innovative activities. Furthermore, hospitality organisations have the highest percentage of innovation revenue due to fewer innovation efforts and innovation outcomes, mainly due to the organisation’s innovations. Full article

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Open AccessArticle

Evaluating Leaders’ Strategic Thinking and Entrepreneurial Characteristics Using Semantic Analysis

Maria Georgakalou

Maria Kamariotou

and

Fotis Kitsios

Businesses 2023, 3(1), 181-197; https://doi.org/10.3390/businesses3010013 - 09 Feb 2023

Cited by 1

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to identify whether a person’s entrepreneurial characteristics can be sought in written texts, and it deals with aspects such as understanding hidden feelings by looking only at a person’s written texts. The transcripts of their speeches, interviews, and press conferences were analyzed in terms of semantic categories of words that were included with the use of General Inquirer software, which was developed in Harvard in order to support content analysis. Representatives clearly articulate and work together to establish the organization’s values, ascertain its objectives, create and carry out a strategic plan, and cultivate and interact with the organization’s perspective. A leader needs to be appointed, but they also need to have the ability to demonstrate their aspirations, excite their audience, and visualize their followers. In addition to this, they need to have the determination to take risks. This paper could be helpful for assessors of modern businesses as well as investigators of political and social sciences who are seeking to determine the perspective that is encountered in the literary documents of a particular person. A large variety of written documents from numerous people that have lived in a variety of historical eras and countries, regardless of gender and educational or professional background were examined. The common characteristic is that they were leading personalities in any of the following categories: their country, social movements, sports, art, business and social life. Full article

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