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The Impact of Digitalization on the Quality of Life
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The Impact of Digitalization on the Quality of Life

A topical collection in Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050).

Viewed by 75874

Editor

Dr. Yury Klochkov

E-Mail Website
Collection Editor
Monitoring Center of Science and Education, Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, St. Petersburg 195251, Russia
Interests: methods of standardization and quality management; qualimetric assessment of quality; total quality management
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Topical Collection Information

Dear Colleagues,

The main trend of the modern scientific and technical society is the integration of the technosphere, biosphere, and the virtual (digital) world. Currently, the "best-in-class" term is used, which is always associated with a specific period of time and technology, which shows the high product quality dynamics. The obsolescence of a product occurs much faster than its physical aging. Product reliability numbers and the theory of reliability itself are changing, due to both new technologies and consumption velocity. Digital twins and end-to-end technologies are becoming the drivers of sustainable development. Today, thanks to digitalization, manufacturing systems have not only one but several solutions to meet requirements. In fact, techniques have been modeled and found to guarantee the sustainable development of products, companies, and industries, taking into account a huge number of factors that reduce the impact of uncertainty on business. On the one hand, there is an increased need for professionalism and highly intelligent personnel, which helps to support global competition among employees, and, on the other hand, there is a redistribution of specialties and areas of training and staff reduction. People can communicate online at any time, but, there has been a dramatic reduction in interpersonal contacts; personal contact with teachers, doctors, and specialists is becoming a luxury that not everyone can afford. Digitalization allows us to take into account a large number of risks, solve crimes, analyze the characteristics of each person, but, at the same, time there is a technical possibility of total control. The issue of human freedom, independence, and personal space has become pertinent. On the other hand, these technologies make dreams come true: the first kick at the 2014 World Cup was kicked by a disabled with paralyzed legs. Pinto operated a mechanical leg mentally, with the help of an exoskeleton created at Duke University (USA). The exoskeleton is operated by a helmet that reads brain signals. For this Special Issue, authors are encouraged to consider how digitalization affects quality of life, what kind of new opportunities, risks, and problems may arise for people, the way the economy will change, the trends of education that will arise, and what kind of specialists will be in demand.

Dr. Yury Klochkov
Collection Editor

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Keywords

  • quality of life
  • digitalization
  • reliability
  • sustainable development

Published Papers (23 papers)

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2023

Jump to: 2022, 2021, 2020

22 pages, 1244 KiB  
Article
Barriers to the Implementation of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) for Sustainable Building in a Developing Economy
by Ahmed Farouk Kineber, Ayodeji Emmanuel Oke, Mohamed Elseknidy, Mohamed Magdy Hamed and Fakunle Samuel Kayode
Sustainability 2023, 15(1), 825; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15010825 - 03 Jan 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2558
Abstract
Sustainability principles need to be applied at all the stages of the decision-making process concerning the building of urban housing to realize maximum benefits without compromising the project’s function. This paper aims to investigate the applicability of radio frequency identification (RFID) and identify [...] Read more.
Sustainability principles need to be applied at all the stages of the decision-making process concerning the building of urban housing to realize maximum benefits without compromising the project’s function. This paper aims to investigate the applicability of radio frequency identification (RFID) and identify the barriers that impede its successful adoption in building projects to achieve sustainability in building. The literature was reviewed, and data were derived by complementing the quantitative technique. A questionnaire was employed to gather data from 107 stakeholders in the building industry in Nigeria. The data were scrutinized using the exploratory factor analysis (EFA) technique. The partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was also applied to create a model for embracing RFID tools for sustainable building. The results of EFA revealed that the RFID barriers could be classified into significant constructs: infrastructure, immaturity, privacy, and security. The PLS-SEM model revealed that infrastructure was the most significant barrier to RFID implementation in the building industry. Thus, this study’s findings could aid decision makers in facilitating sustainability approaches in buildings projects through RFID implementation. These results would further lay the basis for objectively measuring and valuing the diverse barriers impacting RFID implementation. Full article
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2022

Jump to: 2023, 2021, 2020

20 pages, 4510 KiB  
Review
A Systematic Review on Enhancement in Quality of Life through Digitalization in the Construction Industry
by Muhammad Ali Musarat, Alishba Sadiq, Wesam Salah Alaloul and Mohamed Mubarak Abdul Wahab
Sustainability 2023, 15(1), 202; https://doi.org/10.3390/su15010202 - 23 Dec 2022
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3518
Abstract
Digitalization in the construction sector is a need of the modern world. Not only the infrastructure, but also the quality of life, is improved by the digital transformation in the construction sector. Digital technologies are being widely used in construction. The impacts of [...] Read more.
Digitalization in the construction sector is a need of the modern world. Not only the infrastructure, but also the quality of life, is improved by the digital transformation in the construction sector. Digital technologies are being widely used in construction. The impacts of implementing digital technology on transformation in the construction industry, however, have not yet been thoroughly understood. Considering this aspect of the construction industry, this study reviews the articles in the field of digitalization of various segments in the construction industry. In this manner, the Scopus database was considered to gather the relevant articles based on the keywords (((“Digitalization” OR “Digitalisation”) OR “Reforms”) AND “Construction” AND “Energy”). These keyword combinations provided a list of 126 articles and, following the protocol of Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA), the number was reduced to 35. The review showed that the major targeted areas in the construction sector based on digital transformation are smart construction, optimization of energy, sustainable environment, wireless technology, and economic and architectural growth in which the role of Building Information Modelling (BIM) and prefabricated construction is noteworthy. The involvement of digitalization in numerous fields has improved quality of life. It increases production and has the potential to automate the industry more effectively. This study shows how the adoption of digital technology has improved comprehension and laid the foundation for a digital transformation in the construction industry. Full article
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22 pages, 931 KiB  
Article
Sustainability in a Digitized Era Analyzing the Moderation Effect of Social Strata and Digital Capital Dependence on Digital Divide
by Swapnil Singh, Uma Shankar Singh and Malgorzata Nermend
Sustainability 2022, 14(21), 14508; https://doi.org/10.3390/su142114508 - 04 Nov 2022
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1679
Abstract
Although we have evolved digitally and technologically in the 21st century, disparities still exist in society. The research problem cited for the study is the need to assess the impact of the digital divide in the formation of digital capital, where the already [...] Read more.
Although we have evolved digitally and technologically in the 21st century, disparities still exist in society. The research problem cited for the study is the need to assess the impact of the digital divide in the formation of digital capital, where the already stratified society based on variables such as age, gender, education, and region (rural–urban) will act as moderators to mitigate the digital inequalities for a sustainable world. The research objectives are to explore the underpinning reasons for the digital divide in reinforcing social inequalities, quantify the impact of the digital divide on digital capital statistically, and to evaluate the moderating effect of social strata variables comparatively. The idea of digital capital culminates into five hypotheses for this study as the digital divide impacts digital capital, as well as the assessment of moderating effects of age, education, and region. Statistical tools, specifically frequency, percentage, reliability, ANOVA, correlation, and regression, have been used to test the hypothesis and proposed conceptual model. The social strata dimension in the study revealed a higher variance of opinion. Digital capital is taken as the dependent variable and the digital divide is the independent variable, which shows Beta as 0.591 and B as 0.585, indicating a good relationship of 59.1% and an effect of 58.5%. Finally, the research reveals that there exists a digital divide and, hence, digital inequalities in India need to be addressed for attaining various Sustainable Development Goals. The study has significant implications for the leaders and policymakers to work towards inclusivity by bridging the digital divide and eliminating digital inequalities in India. Full article
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20 pages, 723 KiB  
Article
Sustaining Consumer E-Commerce Adoption in Sub-Saharan Africa: Do Trust and Payment Method Matter?
by Dennis Owusu Amofah and Junwu Chai
Sustainability 2022, 14(14), 8466; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14148466 - 11 Jul 2022
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3478
Abstract
The long-term sustainability of e-commerce usage for improving quality of life is dependent on several factors. Presently, trust and payment methods have emerged as critical factors influencing e-commerce adoption. Consequently, this study investigates the UTAUT determinants of consumer e-commerce adoption in Ghana by [...] Read more.
The long-term sustainability of e-commerce usage for improving quality of life is dependent on several factors. Presently, trust and payment methods have emerged as critical factors influencing e-commerce adoption. Consequently, this study investigates the UTAUT determinants of consumer e-commerce adoption in Ghana by focusing on the mediating and moderating roles of trust and payment method. The study employs the Partial Least Square Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM) to estimate the survey response of 535 purposively selected respondents from six regions in Ghana. The results corroborate a direct relationship between the UTAUT variables and e-commerce adoption. However, the payment method suggests no moderating effect on trust and e-commerce adoption connection. Nevertheless, trust significantly mediates the UTAUT variables and e-commerce adoption. Finally, the mediation was highest between social influence and trust but lowest between effort expectancy and trust. This challenges practitioners and managers of e-commerce platforms to consider the mediating role of trust to improve adoption and the sustainable usage of e-commerce. Full article
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21 pages, 2476 KiB  
Article
Shared Micromobility: Between Physical and Digital Reality
by Daria Bylieva, Victoria Lobatyuk and Irina Shestakova
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 2467; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14042467 - 21 Feb 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2918
Abstract
Moving around the city is a problem for the development of most megacities. Due to digital technologies, each city dweller is connected by information and communication channels with the city infrastructure, receiving information and choosing the available modes of movement. Shared micromobility in [...] Read more.
Moving around the city is a problem for the development of most megacities. Due to digital technologies, each city dweller is connected by information and communication channels with the city infrastructure, receiving information and choosing the available modes of movement. Shared micromobility in terms of digital solutions is a convenient service, while reducing congestion and emissions, and preventing air and noise pollution; however, the physical and social dimension of the city is experiencing problems, with growing public health concerns, high overall environmental costs, clutter in the streets, etc. This presentation presents a case study of the relatively recent emergence of shared micromobility in St. Petersburg and attitudes towards its users. In addition to the direct process of use and the experience gained, the factors that determine the social influence and perception of micromobility are highlighted. The highest ratings of the digital component and the rather high importance of such factors as environmental friendliness and safety make it possible to recommend the creation of an interactive digital system that unites riders. Full article
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11 pages, 966 KiB  
Article
Intelligent Data Analysis for Infection Spread Prediction
by Alexey I. Borovkov, Marina V. Bolsunovskaya and Aleksei M. Gintciak
Sustainability 2022, 14(4), 1995; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14041995 - 10 Feb 2022
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1630
Abstract
Intelligent data analysis based on artificial intelligence and Big Data tools is widely used by the scientific community to overcome global challenges. One of these challenges is the worldwide coronavirus pandemic, which began in early 2020. Data science not only provides an opportunity [...] Read more.
Intelligent data analysis based on artificial intelligence and Big Data tools is widely used by the scientific community to overcome global challenges. One of these challenges is the worldwide coronavirus pandemic, which began in early 2020. Data science not only provides an opportunity to assess the impact caused by a pandemic, but also to predict the infection spread. In addition, the model expansion by economic, social, and infrastructural factors makes it possible to predict changes in all spheres of human activity in competitive epidemiological conditions. This article is devoted to the use of anonymized and personal data in predicting the coronavirus infection spread. The basic “Susceptible–Exposed–Infected–Recovered” model was extended by including a set of demographic, administrative, and social factors. The developed model is more predictive and applicable in assessing future pandemic impact. After a series of simulation experiment results, we concluded that personal data use in high-level modeling of the infection spread is excessive. Full article
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22 pages, 693 KiB  
Article
Application of Modern Digital Systems and Approaches to Business Process Management
by Marija Zahar Djordjevic, Aleksandar Djordjevic, Elena Klochkova and Milan Misic
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1697; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031697 - 01 Feb 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2473
Abstract
In order to adapt to ever-changing customer needs and satisfy them, good Business Process Management (BPM) in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) is crucial. The target group of this research is production SMEs whose BPM can be monitored respecting the values of key [...] Read more.
In order to adapt to ever-changing customer needs and satisfy them, good Business Process Management (BPM) in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) is crucial. The target group of this research is production SMEs whose BPM can be monitored respecting the values of key performance indicators (KPIs). This paper shows how improving the performance of the observed business processes can improve the level of customer satisfaction. This improvement should lead to the sustainability of SMEs in the market. In this paper, evaluation of business processes performance is defined as a multi-criteria decision problem. The relative importance of considered KPIs and their imprecise values are described by linguistic expressions, which are then modeled by triangular intuitionistic fuzzy numbers (TIFNs). Calculation of KPI weights is done by using the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP). Evaluation of BPM success is conducted respecting the obtained KPI weights and KPI values. An optimal solution for BPM success improvement, respecting customer satisfaction indicators, is calculated using the Artificial Neural Network (ANN) and Genetic Algorithm (GA) approaches. By applying the proposed model, managers of production SMEs can determine the management initiatives that will improve their business and the sustainability of their companies. Full article
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16 pages, 1564 KiB  
Article
Development Priorities for the Regional Innovation System Based on the Best Available Technologies
by Nikolay Kuznetsov, Sergey Tyaglov, Marina Ponomareva, Nataliya Rodionova and Karina Sapegina
Sustainability 2022, 14(3), 1116; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14031116 - 19 Jan 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1516
Abstract
At the present stage one of the most important factors in the economic growth of Russian regions is the production processes modernization based on the best available technologies (hereinafter—BAT), ensuring the reduction of the negative impact on the environment in cost-effective ways. The [...] Read more.
At the present stage one of the most important factors in the economic growth of Russian regions is the production processes modernization based on the best available technologies (hereinafter—BAT), ensuring the reduction of the negative impact on the environment in cost-effective ways. The most important conditions for the successful implementation of BAT at regional enterprises is the creation of general institutional conditions at the all-Russian level and the supply of enterprises with domestic technologies meeting the criteria of the best available technology. Over the past several years, large-scale work has been carried out in Russia to amend legislation, prepare BAT reference documents, and form the institutional conditions for their implementation. However, sustainable outcomes in specific regions will require the further development of regional innovation systems, consistent with the needs of local enterprises in BAT. The article proposes a general regional mechanism for managing the sustainable development of an innovation system based on BAT. For its successful implementation, a set of practical recommendations for the Rostov region has been formed. Within the framework of the innovation regional infrastructure it was proposed to create a new institute for the implementation of BAT—the Regional BAT competence center, priority areas for the development of potential and promising BAT in the region were identified, a general pattern of interaction of the Regional BAT competence center with other participants in the process was developed. Full article
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22 pages, 3060 KiB  
Article
Assessment of the Fragility of the Municipal Waste Sector in Serbia Using System Dynamics Modelling
by Miloš Jovičić, Goran B. Bošković, Nebojša Jovičić, Marija Savković, Ivan Mačužić, Miladin Stefanović and Yury Klochkov
Sustainability 2022, 14(2), 862; https://doi.org/10.3390/su14020862 - 13 Jan 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1990
Abstract
This research develops a novel methodology for municipal waste management in Serbia, based on system dynamics modelling. The methodology shows how a country and relevant institutions should address complexities in the waste management sector. Waste management is a critical issue globally, which heavily [...] Read more.
This research develops a novel methodology for municipal waste management in Serbia, based on system dynamics modelling. The methodology shows how a country and relevant institutions should address complexities in the waste management sector. Waste management is a critical issue globally, which heavily impacts the economic development of a country, including the general quality of life within a society. The designed simulation generates different scenarios of the Serbian municipal waste system for reaching the 2035 recycling rate targets. Methodologies such as the theory of constraints, fragility analysis, and systems dynamics were implemented in the model. The scenarios and fragility modelling were conducted with the system dynamics modelling methodology in the Ventity simulation environment. The designed model has elements of discrete event simulations, system dynamics, and agent-based modelling. Importantly, real-world data for the period of five years (from the year 2016 to 2020) was used in the case study. This research undoubtedly reveals that the informal sector is the key source of fragility to the dynamic system considered. During the considered period, the informal sector contributed 62.3% of all separated waste to the system. Consequently, this research concludes that for the waste sector in Serbia to reach the 2035 EU goals, the existing practice in waste management has to be changed significantly and will benefit from the modelling approach used here. The whole system is highly dependent on the informal sector, which, in its current form, is volatile, unregulated, and fragile to aggressive regulative policies. Full article
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2021

Jump to: 2023, 2022, 2020

13 pages, 2613 KiB  
Article
Digital Training and Advanced Learning in Occupational Safety and Health Based on Modern and Affordable Technologies
by Arso M. Vukićević, Ivan Mačužić, Marko Djapan, Vladimir Milićević and Luiza Shamina
Sustainability 2021, 13(24), 13641; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132413641 - 10 Dec 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2868
Abstract
Occupational safety and health (OSH) is a very important issue for both practical purposes in industry and business due to numerous reasons, so a number of software, educational and industrial solutions are available. In this paper, the cloud-based mobile application for digital training [...] Read more.
Occupational safety and health (OSH) is a very important issue for both practical purposes in industry and business due to numerous reasons, so a number of software, educational and industrial solutions are available. In this paper, the cloud-based mobile application for digital training and advanced learning in the field of occupational safety was presented. The proposed framework architecture was based on a novel approach: Node.JS for the server backend and the React Native for the front-end development; while MongoDB was used for implementing the cloud data storage using sensors that are all available on the Android platform. In the development of this application, a number of options were developed (using open-source software) such as the reading of a QR code, usage of built-in sensors within android platforms, reporting, and voice messages. The developed SafeST solution is presented through a real industry example. It emphasizes two main possibilities of the solution, improving OHS reporting and significant empowerment of the students in the OHS field based on the learning-by-doing approach. In this way, the additional engagement (identification, recording and reporting of UA/UC) of OSH managers has been reduced to a minimum, taking into account requested reports from management and authorities, and the continual training of the employees and preparation of the students for future working activities. The system was tested for educational purposes with the initial idea to develop an application for smartphones which could be useful and well adopted among engineering students in the OSH field. Full article
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15 pages, 288 KiB  
Article
Digitainability and Financial Performance: Evidence from the Serbian Banking Sector
by Nikola Stefanovic, Lidija Barjaktarovic and Alexey Bataev
Sustainability 2021, 13(23), 13461; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132313461 - 06 Dec 2021
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3617
Abstract
This study aimed to explore the cross-section of digitalization and sustainability in banking and its effect on bank performance. The sample consisted of all of the banks (n = 25) operating in the Republic of Serbia from 2011 to 2020. The research [...] Read more.
This study aimed to explore the cross-section of digitalization and sustainability in banking and its effect on bank performance. The sample consisted of all of the banks (n = 25) operating in the Republic of Serbia from 2011 to 2020. The research results show that the banks focusing on digitalization and sustainability are profitable, even in the face of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Furthermore, using the Pearson’s correlation, the study shows that the level of investment in digital transformation has a strong relationship with the net result. We advocate that digitainability in banking is an important factor in uncertain times and should be fostered and included in bank strategies in the post-COVID 19 world. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that provides insight into digitainability and bank performance. Full article
21 pages, 2269 KiB  
Article
A Cloud-Based with Microcontroller Platforms System Designed to Educate Students within Digitalization and the Industry 4.0 Paradigm
by Đorđe Mijailović, Aleksandar Đorđević, Miladin Stefanovic, Dejan Vidojević, Albina Gazizulina and Damir Projović
Sustainability 2021, 13(22), 12396; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132212396 - 10 Nov 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2263
Abstract
The primary purpose of this paper is to present a system intended for student education based on a microcontroller platform and a cloud system where data will be stored. Obtained research results will be based on the application of The NodeMcu platform for [...] Read more.
The primary purpose of this paper is to present a system intended for student education based on a microcontroller platform and a cloud system where data will be stored. Obtained research results will be based on the application of The NodeMcu platform for data collection with sensor systems. MatLab, ThingSpeak cloud system, and the Virtuino platform will be used for data presentation. Quantitative data are applied to determine conditions for agriculture system performance management. By analyzing the literature and the current situation in monitoring and managing in the agriculture and ecology field, it can be concluded that there are no special education courses regarding these issues. This knowledge was a good starting point for the research presented in this paper. Accordingly, the findings include developing a monitoring and management system intended for student education in mentioned fields. In addition, the practical implications of this research includes the acquisition of information related to student satisfaction with this method of education in the courses of engineering, agriculture, and ecology. The presented system may enable benchmarking, simulation, and verification of different scenarios to improve students’ knowledge regarding sensors’ application in natural conditions. The originality of the research lies in the presented software solution that can be made available to educational institutions and other scientific institutions to serve as a basis in the overall monitoring and management of agricultural and ecology parameters. Full article
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23 pages, 1111 KiB  
Article
The Human Capital of the Freelancers and Their Satisfaction with the Quality of Life
by Ivona Huđek, Polona Tominc and Karin Širec
Sustainability 2021, 13(20), 11490; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132011490 - 18 Oct 2021
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 7726
Abstract
Digital technologies are underpinning a wide range of products, services, processes, and business model innovations that are significantly transforming industries, organizations, and society. They are increasingly permeating every aspect of our daily lives. In this paper, we looked at the challenges of digitalization, [...] Read more.
Digital technologies are underpinning a wide range of products, services, processes, and business model innovations that are significantly transforming industries, organizations, and society. They are increasingly permeating every aspect of our daily lives. In this paper, we looked at the challenges of digitalization, leading to a new way of working in the market and new business models, such as the gig economy. Individuals are becoming more mobile and self-directed in their careers, as opposed to traditional careers. We investigated the demographic characteristics of the new, growing group of self-employed, so-called freelancers, at the national level in Slovenia and investigated the relationships between human capital and their subjective (job and career satisfaction, life satisfaction) and objective success (income satisfaction). The survey was conducted among 200 freelancers (respondents). The empirical results show that most Slovenian freelancers working from home work in professional, scientific, and technical occupations; are between 35 and 44 years old; have completed the second level of tertiary education; work more than 40 hours per week; and have 16 years or more of work experience. To explore the quality of life of freelancers, empirical analysis showed that human capital factors are important for the success of a new career as a freelancer. The results show that freelancers’ human capital factors (education and experience, skills, and training) positively influence subjective and objective success. Using structural equation modeling, we also confirmed that human capital has a greater impact on freelancers’ subjective success (life satisfaction, career satisfaction) than on objective success (income satisfaction), suggesting that job and life satisfaction should be considered an important resource that freelancers rely on to determine their quality of life. Full article
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13 pages, 644 KiB  
Article
Key Barriers of Digital Transformation of the High-Technology Manufacturing: An Evaluation Method
by Alexey Borovkov, Oleg Rozhdestvenskiy, Elizaveta Pavlova, Alexey Glazunov and Konstantin Savichev
Sustainability 2021, 13(20), 11153; https://doi.org/10.3390/su132011153 - 09 Oct 2021
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4618
Abstract
It is acknowledged that quality of life is related to economic development in a country or region. The impact of the ongoing transfer to the digital economy on economic growth, sustainable development, and quality of life has been a recent academic focus, finding [...] Read more.
It is acknowledged that quality of life is related to economic development in a country or region. The impact of the ongoing transfer to the digital economy on economic growth, sustainable development, and quality of life has been a recent academic focus, finding that the development of digitalisation of the economy and society is happening at a comparable pace. Yet, despite the availability of governmental support and overall strategic orientation of top managers, there is evidence of low digital/advanced manufacturing technologies adoption readiness across economic sectors. Therefore, the object of the research is the digital/advanced manufacturing technologies adoption readiness, which can be assessed on both industrial and organisational levels. The authors carried out an expert poll that has shown low digital/advanced manufacturing technologies adoption readiness on the industrial level (average readiness of 2.18 across estimated industries). For this reason, the focus subject of the research is the evaluation method for determining barriers of digital transformation on organisational level. The review of the academic literature and available digital maturity assessment models has shown the lack of metrics for barrier evaluation. The objective of the research is to develop a method for digital-transformation barrier evaluation. An analytical research method is used to develop a ready-to-use method in a form of a questionnaire that can be applied to measure an overall digital-transformation barrier level and identify problem areas for a manufacturing enterprise. The developed method is approbated in two large industrial companies. The overall barrier equals 39.3% for a power engineering company, which is a deterrent barrier. The overall barrier equals 75.0% for a machine-building company, which is a limiting barrier. The results of approbation correspond with results of the expert poll: the power engineering company has a lower barrier level, which is in line with the engine building and turbine engineering industry showing higher levels of readiness to adopt digital technologies. This finding supports the hypothesis about the rationality of the author’s method. Full article
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26 pages, 3547 KiB  
Article
Kabul River Flow Prediction Using Automated ARIMA Forecasting: A Machine Learning Approach
by Muhammad Ali Musarat, Wesam Salah Alaloul, Muhammad Babar Ali Rabbani, Mujahid Ali, Muhammad Altaf, Roman Fediuk, Nikolai Vatin, Sergey Klyuev, Hamna Bukhari, Alishba Sadiq, Waqas Rafiq and Waqas Farooq
Sustainability 2021, 13(19), 10720; https://doi.org/10.3390/su131910720 - 27 Sep 2021
Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3835
Abstract
The water level in a river defines the nature of flow and is fundamental to flood analysis. Extreme fluctuation in water levels in rivers, such as floods and droughts, are catastrophic in every manner; therefore, forecasting at an early stage would prevent possible [...] Read more.
The water level in a river defines the nature of flow and is fundamental to flood analysis. Extreme fluctuation in water levels in rivers, such as floods and droughts, are catastrophic in every manner; therefore, forecasting at an early stage would prevent possible disasters and relief efforts could be set up on time. This study aims to digitally model the water level in the Kabul River to prevent and alleviate the effects of any change in water level in this river downstream. This study used a machine learning tool known as the automatic autoregressive integrated moving average for statistical methodological analysis for forecasting the river flow. Based on the hydrological data collected from the water level of Kabul River in Swat, the water levels from 2011–2030 were forecasted, which were based on the lowest value of Akaike Information Criterion as 9.216. It was concluded that the water flow started to increase from the year 2011 till it reached its peak value in the year 2019–2020, and then the water level will maintain its maximum level to 250 cumecs and minimum level to 10 cumecs till 2030. The need for this research is justified as it could prove helpful in establishing guidelines for hydrological designers, the planning and management of water, hydropower engineering projects, as an indicator for weather prediction, and for the people who are greatly dependent on the Kabul River for their survival. Full article
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11 pages, 2825 KiB  
Review
Self-Healing Construction Materials: The Geomimetic Approach
by Valery Lesovik, Roman Fediuk, Mugahed Amran, Nikolai Vatin and Roman Timokhin
Sustainability 2021, 13(16), 9033; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13169033 - 12 Aug 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2678
Abstract
A person spends most of his life in rooms built from various building materials; therefore, the optimization of the human environment is an important and complex task that requires interdisciplinary approaches. Within the framework of the new theory of geomimetics in the building [...] Read more.
A person spends most of his life in rooms built from various building materials; therefore, the optimization of the human environment is an important and complex task that requires interdisciplinary approaches. Within the framework of the new theory of geomimetics in the building science of materials, the concepts of technogenic metasomatism, the affinity of microstructures, and the possibilities of creating composites that respond to operational loads and can self-heal defects have been created. The article aims to introduce the basic principles of the science of geomimetics in terms of the design and synthesis of building materials. The study’s novelty lies in the concept of technogenic metasomatism and the affinity of microstructures developed by the authors. Novel technologies have been proposed to produce a wide range of composite binders (including waterproof and frost-resistant gypsum binders) using novel forms of source materials with high free internal energy. The affinity microstructures for anisotropic materials have been formulated, which involves the design of multilayered composites and the repair of compounds at three levels (nano-, micro-, macro-). The proposed theory of technogenic metasomatism in the building science of materials represents an evolutionary stage for composites that are categorized by their adaptation to evolving circumstances in the operation of buildings and structures. Materials for three-dimensional additive technologies in construction are proposed, and examples of these can be found in nature. Different ways of applying our concept for the design of building materials in future works are proposed. Full article
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25 pages, 13625 KiB  
Article
The Impact of ICT Support and the EFQM Criteria on Sustainable Business Excellence in Higher Education Institutions
by Aleksandar Đorđević, Yury Klochkov, Slavko Arsovski, Nikola Stefanović, Luiza Shamina and Aleksandar Pavlović
Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 7523; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13147523 - 06 Jul 2021
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2983
Abstract
The problem of sustainable business excellence has been investigated according to different aspects in different fields. For a more detailed analysis, it is necessary to develop an integrative sustainable business excellence model, respecting the baseline model of business excellence according to the European [...] Read more.
The problem of sustainable business excellence has been investigated according to different aspects in different fields. For a more detailed analysis, it is necessary to develop an integrative sustainable business excellence model, respecting the baseline model of business excellence according to the European Foundation of Quality Management, with the possibility of defining the relationships and levels of significance of different variables. The primary goal of this paper is to present a developed integrative model to simulate the effects of information and communication technologies, and quality and effects of leadership improvement, as independent variables, on sustainable business excellence in higher education institutions, as a dependent variable. The model was developed by applying dynamic system techniques and evaluated by using statistical methods. In the sample of 17 Serbian and 21 Russian universities, the authors analyzed the information and communication support, leadership and quality, and their impact on sustainable business excellence. According to the simulation analysis, it was concluded that the EFQM model of self-assessment could help produce a more customer-oriented culture in HEIs, through ICT support, leadership and quality criteria enhancements. Full article
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13 pages, 1077 KiB  
Article
Comparative Assessment of Sustainable Consumption Based on the Digital Information Environment Content-Thematic Component Differentiation
by Yanjie Li, Daria Terenteva, Olga Konnikova and Evgenii Konnikov
Sustainability 2021, 13(13), 7215; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13137215 - 28 Jun 2021
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1977
Abstract
The modern culture of consumption often does not correspond to the principles of sustainable development, which leads to environmental pollution. As a possible solution to this problem, the authors propose to analyze the concept of sustainable consumption, following which can reduce the negative [...] Read more.
The modern culture of consumption often does not correspond to the principles of sustainable development, which leads to environmental pollution. As a possible solution to this problem, the authors propose to analyze the concept of sustainable consumption, following which can reduce the negative impact of mankind on the environment, which is an urgent issue at the global level. The aim of the study is to build a tool for comparative analysis of the level of sustainable consumption. The analysis is carried out in the digital environment, since this space provides a relative freedom of expression of the opinion of individuals, and the obtained data reflect the real level of “sustainability” of the behavior of participants in thematic social communities. The result of the research is an analytical tool tested on thematic social communities of the VK.com social network. In the process of building an analytical tool, primary and secondary tokenization were carried out using computer linguistics tools, an analytical dataframe was formed for a source reflecting the studied content-thematic component. To automate the process of forming a set of tokens, Python 3 programming language was used. The proposed tool can be used to determine the level of sustainable consumption in different social communities relative to each other. This approach can be used by companies to find target audiences and to promote environmentally friendly products. Moreover, this tool can be applied to attract consumers by increasing the level of sustainability in the corporate culture based on the research results. A separate problematic of realizing the developed methodology is the ethical component of analyzing natural digital information and the use of the results obtained on the basis of its analysis. Full article
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18 pages, 977 KiB  
Article
Digital Innovation in Times of Crisis: How Mashups Improve Quality of Education
by Yossi Maaravi and Ben Heller
Sustainability 2021, 13(13), 7082; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13137082 - 24 Jun 2021
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2911
Abstract
Innovation is a crucial force underlying the organizational and societal ability to survive and thrive in crisis times, especially in education. However, not all challenges require creating novel solutions; occasionally, combining pre-existing solutions—an approach known as the mashup methodology—can provide equal benefit. Nevertheless, [...] Read more.
Innovation is a crucial force underlying the organizational and societal ability to survive and thrive in crisis times, especially in education. However, not all challenges require creating novel solutions; occasionally, combining pre-existing solutions—an approach known as the mashup methodology—can provide equal benefit. Nevertheless, this approach appears to be relatively unknown. In the current case study, we provide an example of using a mashup of technologies to solve the challenge of running a remote virtual hackathon under COVID-19 social distancing regulations. Additionally, we argue that utilizing the mashup is a form of modeling, in which students learn by witnessing its use. Utilizing the Technology Acceptance Model, we show that by modeling the use of the mashup methodology in this hackathon (Study 1—case), we managed to improve students’ attitudes towards the method and increase its perceived usefulness and ease of use in their eyes. This, in turn, raised their intention to use it as an innovation tool in the future. Study 2 revealed that this effect on participants’ intentions is more significant than what would be achieved by merely teaching people about the methodology. The results of these studies add to the growing literature emphasizing the importance of using digital innovations as means of improving the quality of education, thus increasing the satisfaction and well-being of students. Full article
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14 pages, 809 KiB  
Article
Digitalisation of Teaching and Learning as a Tool for Increasing Students’ Satisfaction and Educational Efficiency: Using Smart Platforms in EFL
by Sandra Stefanovic and Elena Klochkova
Sustainability 2021, 13(9), 4892; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13094892 - 27 Apr 2021
Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3308
Abstract
This manuscript aims to present possibilities for developing mobile and smart platforms and systems in teaching and learning the English language for engineering professionals in different engineering study programs. Foreign language teaching and learning processes are based on traditional methods, while in engineering [...] Read more.
This manuscript aims to present possibilities for developing mobile and smart platforms and systems in teaching and learning the English language for engineering professionals in different engineering study programs. Foreign language teaching and learning processes are based on traditional methods, while in engineering and technical sciences, teaching and learning processes include different digital platforms. Therefore, the following hypotheses were stated. (H1) It is possible to develop a software solution for mobile platforms that can have a higher level of interactivity, and it may lead to better learning outcomes, especially in the field of adopting engineering vocabulary. (H2) Implementation of the developed solution increases motivation for learning and leads to a higher level of satisfaction with the learning process as a part of the quality of life. (H3) Students who have digital and mobile platforms in the learning process could have higher achievement values. This manuscript presents software application development and its implementation in teaching English as a foreign language for engineering and technical study programs on the bachelor level. Initial results in implementation and satisfaction of end users point to the justification of implementing such solutions. Full article
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27 pages, 4133 KiB  
Article
Improvement of Quality of Higher Education Institutions as a Basis for Improvement of Quality of Life
by Zorica Lazić, Aleksandar Đorđević and Albina Gazizulina
Sustainability 2021, 13(8), 4149; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13084149 - 08 Apr 2021
Cited by 17 | Viewed by 3959
Abstract
This paper aims to propose a quality assessment model for higher education institutions in the technical–technological field and a system for decision support and optimal management strategies for quality improvement. Obtaining research results is based on surveying stakeholders in higher education and obtaining [...] Read more.
This paper aims to propose a quality assessment model for higher education institutions in the technical–technological field and a system for decision support and optimal management strategies for quality improvement. Obtaining research results is based on surveying stakeholders in higher education and obtaining quantitative data regarding key performance indices. Quantitative data and the genetic algorithm method are applied to determine optimal management strategies for quality improvement. Quality in the higher education sector is among the current issues in the academic community. By monitoring and researching the higher education field and analysing the literature and the current situation in the system of higher education in developing countries, it can be concluded that there is no single way to assess the quality of higher education institutions. This knowledge was a good starting point for the research presented in this paper. Accordingly, the findings include developing a system for quality assessment and the ranking of higher education institutions. Additionally, evaluating the relevance of key performance indicators of higher education institutions differs from different stakeholder perspectives. However, it is possible to develop a system for decision support and the selection of the optimal strategy for improving the performance of study programs and higher education institutions with regard to quality. The practical implications include defining a decision support system that enables the adoption of optimal decisions by the management teams of higher education institutions to improve study programs and the performance of the higher education institutions. The presented system may enable the benchmarking, simulation, and verification of different scenarios for improving the quality and performance of higher education institutions. In this paper, the authors analysed the characteristics, benefits, and drawbacks of different ranking systems to develop and introduce a novel ranking system that suggests weights for the ranking criteria and different perspectives regarding new digital age requirements. The model was tested, and the results are presented to demonstrate the advantages of the developed model. The originality of the research lies in the presented novel model that can be made available to government institutions and serve as a basis for the overall ranking and evaluation of higher education institutions, with the possibility of developing a performance-based funding system. Additionally, other stakeholders can gain an insight into the performance of an institution in relation to their needs and goals. Full article
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11 pages, 686 KiB  
Article
How to Make Digitalization Better Serve an Increasing Quality of Life?
by Oleg A. Kryzhanovskij, Natalia A. Baburina and Anastasia O. Ljovkina
Sustainability 2021, 13(2), 611; https://doi.org/10.3390/su13020611 - 11 Jan 2021
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3801
Abstract
Modern people live in the era of knowledge and digitalization supposed to increase their quality of life. Nevertheless, digital technologies are only the instruments in the development and transformation of social-economic processes and their usage per se does not ensure only positive effects, [...] Read more.
Modern people live in the era of knowledge and digitalization supposed to increase their quality of life. Nevertheless, digital technologies are only the instruments in the development and transformation of social-economic processes and their usage per se does not ensure only positive effects, which much depends on goals, conditions, institutes, etc. Thus, digitalization has an unambiguous influence on many social-economic processes and needs a wise policy to provide smooth progress and well-being for everybody. This study aims to design and test appropriate tools for managing digitalization to direct this process on increasing the quality of life. For this purpose we analyzed: (1) correlation to identify interrelations between digitalization and quality of life; (2) the potential of using the visualization matrix method to identify and monitor national trends of digitalization in the context of quality of life. We found: (1) close correlation between subjective and objective indicators of quality of life and between the quality of life and digitalization; (2) the two-dimensional matrix turned out to be a relevant visual tool that embraces specific two-way relationships between human development and digitalization. In combination with statistical and qualitative methods, this tool has wide prospects for managing digitalization in the context of social progress and increasing quality of life. Full article
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2020

Jump to: 2023, 2022, 2021

12 pages, 259 KiB  
Article
Can Digital Transformation Solve the Problem of Arctic Youth Migration Outflow?
by Vadim E. Ljovkin, Gennadij F. Detter, Josif L. Tukkel, Elena Gladun and Anastasia O. Ljovkina
Sustainability 2020, 12(24), 10685; https://doi.org/10.3390/su122410685 - 21 Dec 2020
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2805
Abstract
Youth educational migration is an urgent problem for most Arctic cities. In particular, this problem is extremely important for Russia in the context of changing the paradigm of the planned development of the Arctic oil and gas economy into indefinite long-term prospects and [...] Read more.
Youth educational migration is an urgent problem for most Arctic cities. In particular, this problem is extremely important for Russia in the context of changing the paradigm of the planned development of the Arctic oil and gas economy into indefinite long-term prospects and scenarios of Arctic development. This situation led to reducing social-economic northern benefits and compensations and strengthens the trends of Arctic youth educational migration. However, the experience of digital transformation and forced distance learning due to the pandemic of 2020 could bring young people a new understanding of the opportunities of digitalization, influencing their migration decisions. To clarify the potential of digital technologies in solving the problem of youth migration outflow in the Russian Arctic, we surveyed the students at technical schools and colleges of the Yamal-Nenets autonomous area, Russia; sample size 1532 students in total. The analysis of the survey’s results proved the intention of most respondents to move to larger cities in non-Arctic territories. Together with that, we revealed a high potential of digital technologies in addressing the problem of youth migration which was previously considered unsolvable. In particular, the accessibility of quality distance education can sufficiently increase the attractiveness of Arctic territories for youth life, study, and development. Basing on the research results, we suppose that Arctic youth migration outflow can be sufficiently decreased if the measures proposed in the research are implemented with the help of digitalization. Full article
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