bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic sustainability benchmarking of environmental initiatives: a case of wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Majumdar Abhijit , Sinha Sanjib Kumar
Published: January 2021

Purpose

It has been long debated whether the three bottom lines of sustainability (economic, environmental and social) can be achieved simultaneously or whether achieving one adversely affects the others. This paper analyses the economic sustainability of an environmental initiative, namely, effluent treatment plant (ETP), adopted by an Indian textile industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Two situations have been considered for the analysis. First, pure economic view with the operating and installed capacities has been considered. Second, combined economic-environmental view using shadow prices of undesirable outputs (biological oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, total nitrogen, total phosphorous, etc.) has been analysed.

Findings

It has been found that when pure economic view is considered, the net present value (NPV) of the ETP with present operating capacity (10,200 kL/day) is negative, implying that it is not economically sustainable. However, if the ETP is operated with the full installed capacity (17,000 kL/day), it becomes economically sustainable except in the case of very high cost of capital (13%). Finally, when shadow prices of undesirable outputs are considered, the NPV becomes positive, bolstering the economic-environmental sustainability of ETP.

Research limitations/implications

In future, multiple case studies should be conducted in similar organisations to extend the general applicability of the outcome of this study. This research considers the economic and environmental aspects of ETP. However, social benefits have not been considered in this research work, which can definitely be addressed in future endeavours.

Practical implications

Though very high capital investment of ETP acts as a barrier, the results of this study imply that the top management of textile and clothing organisations should look at it from the holistic economic-environmental viewpoint. The use of ETP also leads to social benefits by improving the health of local community and by reducing their hospitalisation, medical expenditure and absenteeism from school and workplace. The outcome of this research may enthuse the entrepreneurs to adopt environmental initiatives.

Originality/value

The paper provides a framework to evaluate the economic feasibility of ETP by considering the time value of money. It is demonstrated with a real case that the environmental initiatives can be economically rewarding.
Rethinking picking processes in e-grocery: a study in the multichannel context
Authors: Vazquez-Noguerol Mar , González-Boubeta Iván , Portela-Caramés Iago , Prado-Prado J. Carlos
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Grocery sellers that have entered the online business must now carry out order fulfilment activities previously done by the customer. Consequently, in a context of online sales growth, the purpose of this study is to identify and implement best practices in order to redesign the order picking process in a retailer with a store-based model.

Design/methodology/approach

To identify different work alternatives, an approach is developed to analyse the methods used in distinct stores of one large Spanish grocer. The methodology employed is a three-step statistical analysis that combines ANOVA and MANOVA techniques to settle on the best alternatives in each case.

Findings

Substantial improvements can be achieved by analysing the different working methods. The three-step statistical analysis identified best practices in terms of their impact on preparation time, allowing a faster working method.

Practical implications

To manage business processes efficiently, online grocers that operate store-based fulfilment strategies can redesign their working method using a criterion based on their own performance.

Originality/value

This is one of the few contributions focusing on the improvement of e-grocery fulfilment operations by disseminating best practices through decision-making criteria. This study contributes by addressing the lack of approaches studying the order picking process by considering its various features and applying best practices.
The effect of a separate risk management committee (RMC) towards firms' performances on consumer goods sector in Malaysia
Authors: Rimin Flicia , Bujang Imbarine , Wong Su Chu Alice , Said Jamaliah
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the effect of setting up a separate risk management committee (RMC) on the performance of listed companies in Malaysia's consumer goods sector. The study considers several firm characteristics as control variables to influence the establishment of the RMC, such as firm size and leverage.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample comprises 169 observations throughout a nine-year time frame starting from 2010 to 2018. The current study used a dichotomous variable of “1” to represent a listed company that establishes a separate RMC and “0” as otherwise. The data analysis is based on a static panel data technique, which utilised the fixed effects model (FEM) and random effects model (REM).

Findings

There is a significant positive relationship between a separate RMC and Tobin's Q which suggests that the establishment of a separate RMC that consists of a majority of independent non-executive directors would significantly improve the firm's performance. The current work supports agency theory which suggests that independent non-executive directors can enhance the transparency of corporate boards as they improved the firm's compliance with the disclosure requirements.

Originality/value

Proper risk management and internal control are critical aspects of a company's governance, management and operations that can influence a firm's performance. The empirical evidence contributes to the knowledge of corporate governance within the context of a RMC’s role in monitoring a company's risk management framework, policies and its implementation. The formation of a separate RMC as a board committee will help to enhance the effectiveness of the risk oversight role of the BOD.
Systematic literature review – improving business processes by implementing agile
Authors: Schmitt Anna , Hörner Sabrina
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Numerous approaches from the field of economics already exist for the improvement of business processes. In the field of software development, work has been done on improving development processes. For years, the focus here has been on agile approaches. Although various approaches for improving business processes exist, it is becoming increasingly difficult to adapt business processes to the fast-moving conditions of the market and the business environment. Agile approaches address this issue. Thus, not only software development processes, but also business processes should benefit from agile approaches.

Design/methodology/approach

To this end, values and principles of the Agile Manifesto, agile methods such as Scrum, and various agile practices such as the Kanban board should be applied in business processes. This paper examines the work already done on this topic. With the help of a systematic literature review (SLR), literature studies dealing with the implementation of the agile approach in business processes are identified.

Findings

This paper presents, investigates and contrasts 12 primary sources dealing with agile and business processes and shows how they are different/ equal regarding three research questions.

Originality/value

We provide an overview of existing approaches handling the combination of agile and business processes to improve business processes.
Assessing adult and continuing education needs in South Korea metropolitan areas using Borich’s needs assessment model
Authors: Lee Yunsoo , Jeong Shinhee , Cho Daeyeon
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine residents’ perceptions of adult and continuing education (ACE) in Seoul, Gyeonggi-do and Incheon in South Korea, by conducting a needs assessment of university degree programs for adults.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses Borich’s educational needs formula and Hershkowitz’s criticality function on the data obtained from a survey of 1,500 residents of the three regions to determine their priorities for degree programs.

Findings

The results show that the top priorities for degree programs in Seoul are computer information and communication and therapeutic health. In Gyeonggi-do, the top priorities are computer information and communication, language and literature and business and economics. In Incheon, participants prefer computer information and communication, agriculture, forestry and fisheries and therapeutic health, in that order.

Originality/value

This study examines Koreans’ perceptions of ACE and conducts a needs assessment to determine their priorities for university degree programs in metropolitan areas in Korea. It provides practical information for policymakers and universities who design and implement ACE programs.
In search for shared content and design in supervision training: a syllabus analysis in Sweden
Authors: Davidsson Eva , Stigmar Martin
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Previous research has pointed to a lack of studies concerning supervision training courses. Consequently, the literature has little to suggest, and the research field is underexplored, so questions around the content and design of supervision training courses remain unanswered and need to be addressed systematically. The main aim of the present study is to explore and map whether shared content and design exist in supervisor training courses across different vocations.

Design/methodology/approach

A syllabus analysis is used in order to investigate characteristic features in supervisor training courses related to the professions of dentist, doctor, psychologist, police officer and teacher.

Findings

The results point to the existence of shared content in the different courses, such as an emphasis on learning and supervision theories, feedback, ethics, assessment and communication. Furthermore, the results conclude similarities in design of the courses, such as a problem-based approach, seminars, lectures and homework. Thus, there are common theoretical approaches to important supervisory competences.

Practical implications

Our results intend to offer possibilities to learn from different professions when improving supervisor training courses but may also constitute a starting point for developing a shared model of interprofessional supervisor competences. Furthermore, the results may support possible cooperation in interprofessional courses. This could include arranging interprofessional courses, where one part is shared for participants from the included professions and another part is profession-specific.

Originality/value

We seek to contribute to the research field of supervision at workplaces with knowledge and ideas about how to learn from different professions when developing and improving supervisor training courses.
Applying vocational education and training pedagogy in business English courses for China's English major undergraduates
Authors: Xie Qing
Published: January 2021

Purpose

In light of university business English pedagogical innovation, this study reports an empirical study with 66 English major participants.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses online survey and participant observation to investigate their practice-oriented motivation and needs, the perceptions of using vocational education and training pedagogy in business English teaching and the learning outcomes in a Chinese university context.

Findings

The study found participants with motivations to learn business and trade knowledge, develop practice-oriented abilities and the preferences of learning flexibly and autonomously. For the perceptions of using vocational education and training pedagogy, simulations of meetings and negotiations were recommended and the job-based competency development model was useful. Workplace simulation was also particularly suggested to bridge the gap between classroom and workplace. For learning outcomes, writing practices and workplace simulation were considered particularly useful. The learning gains were found in international trade correspondence writing. While the intention of continuing learning business English correspondence writing was identified, more opportunities should be created for more practice-oriented activities, such as internship or corporate visit.

Originality/value

Informed by vocational education and training theory, the study has important pedagogical, theoretical and policy implications for business English teaching in both China and worldwide contexts.
Government institutions, entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurship education programmes in Malaysia
Authors: Looi Kim Hoe , Maritz Alex
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the status of entrepreneurship education (EE) in Malaysia and entrepreneurship education programmes (EEPs) offered by Malaysian public and private higher education institutions (HEIs), against the backdrop of macro-level context of Malaysian government institutions related to entrepreneurship.

Design/methodology/approach

This study replicates and extends the research by Maritz et al. (2015, 2019). The study expands a nascent archetype regarding an iterative and systematic open-ended emergent enquiry, together with data collection from Malaysian HEIs.

Findings

The findings suggest significant emergence of EE (programmes and research) in Malaysia, despite EEPs being sparsely distributed across HEIs in the bottom half of Table 1. The top ten HEIs (12% of all HEIs in Table 1) accounted for 35% of all EEPs. This study highlights the significant influence of Malaysian government institutions related to entrepreneurship on EE and EEPs.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are subject to the availability and accuracy of information and documents available on official websites of HEIs. This limitation has been mitigated with telephone and email inquiries and other sources of information.

Practical implications

The findings provide critical grounding and inferences on the status of EE and EEPs in Malaysia for researchers, practitioners, HEIs, governments and other stakeholders.

Originality/value

This study is first of its kind on emergent enquiry into the status of EE in Malaysia and EEPs offered by 19 public HEIs and 67 private HEIs in Malaysia. Moreover, this study links macro-level context of the Malaysian government institutions related to entrepreneurship with micro-level context of EE and EEPs.
A compatible model of family medicine residency training in Iran
Authors: Khatami Farnaz , Shariati Mohammad , Motezarre Asiyeh
Published: January 2021

Purpose

One of the major challenges in practicing family medicine residents (FMRs) is the choice of an appropriate pattern in training health centers (THCs) to provide high-quality health services to patients. This study aimed to design an efficient residency training model in Iranian healthcare centers.

Design/methodology/approach

A four-phase qualitative study with the nominal group technique was carried out in 2018–2019. The required standards of THCs and superior educational practices were initially extracted from the review literature. After collecting and presenting the key findings to the experts' panel, the required training standards and the optimal strategic model to educate FMRs in THCs were prioritized by a nine-point rating system for the well-structured terms of indigenous resources.

Findings

Twenty-two educational standards for FMRs in THCs were finalized after reviewing the literature and taking an opinion poll of experts. The highest assessment scores belonged to sufficient numbers of referrals for common health issues and the existence of satisfactory educational and recreational facilities in THCs. The problem-based (PBL), task-based (TBL) and context-based (CBL) learning models were better strategies than guided-discovery learning (GDL) and small group teaching (SGT) ones to train FMRs in THCs. Also, PBL and SGT models were rated as the best and worst advanced medical education methods to empower FMRs.

Originality/value

Due to different resources available in THCs and training centers, different factors and infrastructures should be considered to meet the required standards in building the integrative training model for FMRs in THCs.
Numerical analysis of flow and forced convection heat transfer of non-Newtonian fluid in a pipe based on fractional constitutive model
Authors: Chang Ailian , Sun HongGuang , Vafai K. , Kosari Erfan
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to use a fractional constitutive model with a nonlocal velocity gradient for replacing the nonlinear constitutive model to characterize its complex rheological behavior, where non-linear characteristics exist, for example, the inherent viscous behavior of the crude oil. The feasibility and flexibility of the fractional model are tested via a case study of non-Newtonian fluid. The finite element method is non-Newtonian used to numerically solve both momentum equation and energy equation to describe the fluid flow and convection heat transfer process.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides a comprehensive theoretical and numerical study of flow and heat transfer of non-Newtonian fluids in a pipe based on the fractional constitutive model. Contrary to fractional order a, the rheological property of non-Newtonian fluid changes from shear-thinning to shear-thickening with the increase of power-law index n, therefore the flow and heat transfer are hindered to some extent.

Findings

This paper discusses two dimensionless parameters on flow regime and thermal patterns, including Reynolds number (Re) and Nusselt number (Nu) in evaluating the flow rate and heat transfer rate. Analysis results show that the viscosity of the non-Newtonian fluid decreases with the rheological index (order α) increasing. While large fractional (order α) corresponds to the enhancement of heat transfer capacity.

Research limitations/implications

First, it is observed that the increase of the Re results in an increase of the local Nusselt number (Nul). It means the heat transfer enhancement ratio increases with Re. Meanwhile, the increasement of the Nul indicating the enhancement in the heat transfer coefficient, produces a higher speed flow of crude oil.

Originality/value

This study presents a new numerical investigation on characteristics of steady-state pipe flow and forced convection heat transfer by using a fractional constitutive model. The influences of various non-dimensional characteristic parameters of fluid on the velocity and temperature fields are analyzed in detail.
Secretless pastry chefs on Instagram: the disclosure of culinary secrets on social media
Authors: Lee Kai-Sean , Tao Chen-Wei (Willie)
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Informed by Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi’s systems view of creativity and Chad Borkenhagen’s conceptualization of open source cooking, this study explored how a group of extraordinary pastry chef used Instagram to openly express creativity, disseminate knowledge and reveal culinary secrets. The subsequent impacts of such actions were also assessed.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitatively driven mixed-method approach was conducted using a nested mixed-method design. A total of 2,456 Instagram posts were visually analyzed alongside a series of interviews with elite pastry chefs over a two-year period.

Findings

Analysis distilled three themes that delineated how elite pastry chefs express creativity and share knowledge mindfully, ethically and altruistically on Instagram. The findings also converged to form a new theoretical model, “systems view of culinary creative sharing,” which accounts for the multifaceted considerations of culinary knowledge sharing on social media.

Research limitations/implications

Findings converged to form a systems view of culinary knowledge sharing. This is peculiarly useful for scholars who are interested in developing a greater understanding about “where and how” creative ideas and knowledge originate, disseminate and receive corroborations in the contemporary digital era.

Originality/value

This study highlighted that a new praxis of open sharing looms large in the culinary profession. This praxis symbolizes a movement away from the traditional mindset of safeguarding culinary secrets and toward a more transparent and open philosophy toward knowledge sharing in the culinary community.
Impact of recommender algorithms on the sales of e-commerce websites
Authors: Sinha Manish , Srivastava Divyank
Published: January 2021

Purpose

With the current pandemic situation, the world is shifting to online buying and therefore the purpose of this study is to understand how the industry can improve sales based on the product recommendations shown on their online platforms.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper has studied content-based filtering using decision trees algorithm and collaborative filtering using K-nearest neighbour algorithm and measured their impact on sales of product of different genres on e-commerce websites and if their recommendation causes a difference in sales.This paper has conducted a field experiment to analyse the customer frequency, change in sales caused by different algorithms and also tried analysing the change in buying preferences of customers in post-pandemic situation and how this paper can improve on the search results by incorporating them in the already used algorithms.

Findings

This study indicates that different algorithms cause differences in sales and score over each other depending upon the category of the product sold. It also suggests that post-Covid, the buying frequency and the preferences of consumers have changed significantly.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to existing users of these sites, it also requires the sites to have a huge database of active users and products. Also, the preferences and likings of Indian subcontinent might not generally apply everywhere else.

Originality/value

This study enables better insight into consumer behaviour, thus enabling the data scientists to design better algorithms and help the companies improve their product sales.
Internet of things (IoT)-based unmanned intelligent street light using renewable energy
Authors: Anguraj Dinesh Kumar , Balasubramaniyan S. , Saravana Kumar E. , Vakula Rani J. , Ashwin M.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the research is to concentrate on the most important smart metropolitan applications which are smart living, smart security and smart maintainable. In that, Power management and security is a most important problem in the current metropolitan situation.

Design/methodology/approach

A smart metropolitan area utilizes recent innovative technologies to improve its living, security and maintainable. The aim of this study is to recognize and resolve the difficulties in metropolitan area applications.

Findings

The main aim of this study is to reduce the metropolitan foremost energy consumption, to recharge the electric vehicles and to increase the lifetime of smart street lights.

Originality/value

The hybrid renewable energy street light applies smart resolutions to substructure and facilities in rural and metropolitan areas to create them well. This study will be applying smart metropolitan solar and wind turbine street light using renewable energy for existing areas. In future, the smart street light work will be implemented everywhere else.
Health literacy in the domain of healthcare among older migrants in Germany (North Rhine-Westphalia). Findings from a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Berens Eva-Maria , Ganahl Kristin , Vogt Dominique , Schaeffer Doris
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Health literacy (HL) is considered an important prerequisite for informed, self-determined health decisions. HL research among older migrants is scarce, but especially important, as older people face great challenges regarding management of chronic illnesses and, therefore, are in need of adequate healthcare. Therefore, this paper aims to report HL in the domain of healthcare (HL-HC) among older migrants in Germany stratified by different countries of origin.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected by a quota sample in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. Computer-assisted personal face-to-face interviews were conducted in German, Russian and Turkish. For this analysis, a subsample of 192 first-generation migrants aged 65–80 years from Turkey, Poland, Greece or Italy was drawn from the main sample (n = 1,000). HL-HC was assessed using a sub-index of health literacy survey European questionnaire 47. Data analyses comprised descriptive statistics, bivariate and multivariate analyses.

Findings

Overall, 68.6% of the older migrants have limited HL-HC, and mean HL-HC scores vary significantly among different countries of origin. There is great variation in reported difficulties for the single HL-HC tasks by migrant groups. In multiple regressions, country of origin, not German as main language, low functional HL and low social status are significantly associated with lower HL-HC.

Practical implications

Interventions should be aimed at smaller target groups and should consider language issues and possible differences related to countries of origin into account. Both individual skills and system-related aspects need to be addressed.

Originality/value

This paper presents first data on HL-HC among older migrants in Germany and its determinants, stratified by different countries of origin.
State space classification of Markov password – an alphanumeric password authentication scheme for secure communication in cloud computing
Authors: S. Vaithyasubramanian S. Vaithyasubramanian , Sundararajan R.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Purpose of this study is to classify the states of Markov Chain for the implementation of Markov Password for effective security. Password confirmation is more often required in all authentication process, as the usage of computing facilities and electronic devices have developed hugely to access networks. Over the years with the increase in numerous Web developments and internet applications, each platform needs ID and password validation for individual users.

Design/methodology/approach

In the technological development of cloud computing, in recent times, it is facing security issues. Data theft, data security, denial of service, patch management, encryption management, key management, storage security and authentication are some of the issues and challenges in cloud computing. Validation in user login authentications is generally processed and executed by password. To authenticate universally, alphanumeric passwords are used. One of the promising proposed methodologies in this type of password authentication is Markov password. Markov passwords – a rule-based password formation are created or generated by using Markov chain. Representation of Markov password formation can be done by state space diagram or transition probability matrix. State space classification of Markov chain is one of the basic and significant properties. The objective of this paper is to classify the states of Markov chain to support the practice of this type of password in the direction of effective authentication for secure communication in cloud computing. Conversion of some sample obvious password into Markov password and comparative analysis on their strength is also presented in this paper. Analysis on strength of obvious password of length eight has shown range of 7%–9% although the converted Markov password has shown more than 82%. As an effective methodology, this password authentication can be implemented in cloud portal and password login validation process.

Findings

The objective of this paper is to classify the states of Markov chain to support the practice of this type of password in the direction of effective authentication for secure communication in cloud computing. Conversion of some sample obvious password into Markov password and comparative analysis on their strength is also presented in this paper.

Originality/value

Validation in user login authentications is generally processed and executed by password. To authenticate universally, alphanumeric passwords are used. One of the promising proposed methodologies in this type of password authentication is Markov password.
Smartphone use during shopping and store loyalty: the role of social influence
Authors: Collin-Lachaud Isabelle , Diallo Mbaye Fall
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This research seeks to investigate how in-store mobile use affects store loyalty directly or indirectly via the mediation of store value and whether social influence moderates such relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a sample of 862 actual customers from a market research company panel, we used structural equation modelling to test a series of research hypotheses.

Findings

The results show a positive but weak effect of in-store smartphone use on loyalty. This effect is significantly mediated by the store’s hedonic and symbolic value dimensions, but not by its utilitarian value. This research also uncovers significant moderation effects of social influence on the relationships investigated. The effect of in-store smartphone use on store loyalty is stronger when social influence is lower. However, the effects of hedonic and symbolic store value are stronger when social influence is higher.

Research limitations/implications

This research is carried out in one country (France). It focuses on social influence through in-store mobile phone use; it would also be useful to consider physical social influence.

Practical implications

Retailers should position their stores on specific value dimensions and use social influence appropriately to improve loyalty. For instance, utilitarian value should be offered to customers with low social influence. To prevent negative social influence, retailers could develop “controlled” social influence through their own private mobile app to favour interaction.

Originality/value

This research underlines the critical role of store value and social influence on the relationships between smartphone use and store loyalty. It shows that the effects of value dimensions (utilitarian, hedonic and symbolic) on loyalty differ depending on social influence level.
Critical creatures: children as pioneers of posthuman pedagogies
Authors: Dinker Karin Gunnarsson
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This paper addresses two main questions: What is taught about animal ethics in primary school and how. Are these messages challenged by the students and, in that case, how and why? This is discussed in the light of Critical Animal Pedagogies.

Design/methodology/approach

The findings drawn upon in this paper are from a critical human-animal ethnographic study carried out in three Swedish primary schools between 2012 and 2017 using a case study approach of interviews, observation and intervention.

Findings

This paper suggests that children's subtle ways of resisting and negotiating their own space in the face of adultism, which is the power adults exercise over children, are an ongoing struggle which can both destabilize anthropocentrism and open up space for new pedagogical practice.

Originality/value

This paper explores the implications of and possibilities for teaching and learning given the positions of human children and non-human animals intersect, foremost exploring the agency of children in the school environment.
“Who should I grant access to my post?”: Identifying the most suitable privacy decisions on online social networks
Authors: Alemany Jose , Del Val Elena , García-Fornes Ana María
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Online social networks (OSNs) provide users with mechanisms such as social circles and individual selection to define the audiences (i.e., privacy policy) of the shared information. This privacy decision-making process is a hard and tedious task for users because they have to assess the cost-benefit in a complex environment. Moreover, little is known about how users assess the cost-benefit of matching the elements of online communication and their interests. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to develop and test a research model to understand the impact that the types of receivers and the sensitivity of messages have on privacy decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

A study was conducted to understand how users evaluate the cost-benefit of the disclosure action in online social networks for the different types of receivers identified and the sensitivity of the message. Data from 400 respondents was collected and analyzed using partial least squares modeling.

Findings

The findings of this study demonstrated a trade-off variance between the perceived cost-benefit and the disclosure of sensitive information with different receiver types. Disclosing personal information with trusted receivers, influencer receivers and receivers from the circle of coworkers had a positive significant effect on social capital building. Conversely, disclosing personal information with receivers from the circle of family or unknown receivers had a significant negative effect on social capital building and even a significant positive effect on privacy concerns.

Originality/value

Recent literature has documented the increasing interest of the research community in understanding users' concerns and interests in making the most suitable privacy decisions. However, most researchers have worked on understanding the disclosure action from a user-centered perspective and have not considered all of the elements of online communication. This study puts the focus on all of the elements of communication during disclosure actions, taking into account the properties of the message and receivers and the impact on users' cost benefit value.
Virtual trainer system: a tool to increase exercise participation and work productivity
Authors: Kwok Ron Chi-Wai , Leung Alvin Chung Man , Hui Stanley Sai-chuen , Wong Clara Choi-Ki
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Due to lack of motivation, individuals often fail to perform regular exercise. In view of this, we developed a virtual trainer system (VTS) to encourage users to perform simple exercise routines regularly.

Design/methodology/approach

A design science approach is adopted to develop a VTS to motivate users to exercise. Study findings are based on a field experiment with 91 participants recruited from a university in Hong Kong.

Findings

Outcome-oriented reminders foster stronger perceived risks of health and perceived value of exercises, whereas virtual trainer attractiveness has insignificant effect. Perceived value of exercises is positively related to exercise participation, which has a positive relationship with work productivity.

Research limitations/implications

The findings answer question of how to motivate people to continue exercising.

Practical implications

Findings provide insights for fitness companies to design online exercise training for users.

Social implications

VTS can promote regular exercise and healthy life.

Originality/value

This research shows that interactive virtual agents can motivate users to exercise regularly. It contributes to the burgeoning research on the use of IT artifacts for improving exercise participation and provides practical insights into VTS designs.
Exhaustion and dependency: a habituation–sensitization perspective on the duality of habit in social media use
Authors: Soror Amr , Steelman Zachary R. , Turel Ofir
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The current work builds on the dual process theory of habituation and sensitization to empirically investigate theory-based mechanisms through which social media use habit influences continued social media use intentions in the context of problematic social media use (SMU).

Design/methodology/approach

We build on the dual process theory of habituation and sensitization and test our model with structural equation modeling technique applied to survey-based data collected from 337 social media users.

Findings

Findings suggest that SMU Habit may increase user's perceived Habituation and directly reduce user's experienced SMU related Exhaustion. Furthermore, Habituation and SMU related Exhaustion are negatively associated in a nonlinear fashion. Also, SMU Habit may promote higher level of SMU Dependency through Sensitization. Increased level of SMU Dependency is associated with increased level of SMU related Exhaustion. Thus, SMU Habit simultaneously shapes two opposing forces driving continued use decisions.

Practical implications

The current work can serve as a basis for developing effective interventions especially given the increase in problematic uses of IS fostered by the development of technology use habits.

Originality/value

Although separate strands of research independently examined the role of “pull” forces such as SMU dependency and the role of “push” forces such as SMU related Exhaustion in influencing users' inclination toward future SMU, a unified theoretical framework considering the triad of SMU Habit, “pull” and “push” forces together is yet to be offered. Deploying Habituation–Sensitization theory will shed new light on dual mechanisms through which habit drives continued use decisions in SMU context. Thus, the current work can serve as a basis for developing effective interventions given the increase in problematic uses of IS.
Incorporating data quality into a multi-product procurement planning under risk
Authors: Shabani-Naeeni Fereshte , Ghasemy Yaghin R.
Published: January 2021

Purpose

In the data-driven era, the quality of the data exchanged between suppliers and buyer can enhance the buyer’s ability to appropriately cope with the risks and uncertainties associated with raw material purchasing. This paper aims to address the issue of supplier selection and purchasing planning considering the quality of data by benefiting from suppliers’ synergistic effects.

Design/methodology/approach

An approach is proposed to measure data visibility’s total value using a multi-stage algorithm. A multi-objective mathematical optimization model is then developed to determine the optimal integrated purchasing plan in a multi-product setting under risk. The model contemplates three essential objective functions, i.e. maximizing total data quality and quantity level, minimizing purchasing risks and minimizing total costs.

Findings

With emerging competitive areas, in the presence of industry 4.0, internet of things and big data, high data quality can improve the process of supply chain decision-making. This paper supports the managers for the procurement planning of modern organizations under risk and thus provides an in-depth understanding for the enterprises having the readiness for industry 4.0 transformation.

Originality/value

Various data quality attributes are comprehensively subjected to deeper analysis. An applicable procedure is proposed to determine the total value of data quality and quantity required for supplier selection. Besides, a novel multi-objective optimization model is developed to determine the purchasing plan under risk.
Intergenerational workplace knowledge sharing: challenges and new directions
Authors: Tang Jiayang , Martins Jorge Tiago
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Drawing on theories pertaining to knowledge sharing, ageing at work and human resource practices for ageing workers, this article explores knowledge sharing challenges arising from the interaction between an increasingly ageing workforce and younger employees.

Design/methodology/approach

Contextually, the authors focus on China, where the pace of demographic transformations offers a unique opportunity to investigate knowledge sharing practices in their socio-economic context. Empirically, the authors analyse knowledge sharing behaviours and practices of retail banking professionals in a Chinese big four bank.

Findings

The encouragement of knowledge sharing between younger and older workers should be incorporated into organisations' human resource strategies. The availability of development, maintenance, utilisation and accommodative human resource practices signals to older workers that they are valuable and are worth investing in.

Originality/value

The authors’ contribution to theory and practice is twofold: starting with the identification of perceived knowledge sharing challenges, the authors’ analysis offers important contextually grounded insights into what types of managerial practices are relevant in eliciting successful knowledge sharing within organisations faced with an ageing workforce.
Groping environmental sensitivity as an antecedent of environmental behavioural intentions through perceived environmental responsibility
Authors: Singh Sandeep , Sharma Priyanka , Garg Nameeta , Bala Rajni
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to study the mediating role of perceived environmental responsibility on the relationship between environmental sensitivity and pro-environmental behavioural intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample of the study was 256 respondents. The snowball sampling technique was applied to reach the maximum number of respondents. The data was collected with three standardized scales. It was conducted on the general mass in the northern region of India. The hypotheses were tested by applying partial least square structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The study exhibits a significant positive effect of environmental sensitivity (ES) on environmental responsibility (ER) and environmental behavioural intentions (EBI). Environmental responsibility has a significant positive effect on environmental behavioural intentions. As expected, environmental responsibility partially mediates the relationship between environmental sensitivity and environmental behaviour intentions.

Research limitations/implications

The study has tested the theory-driven hypotheses and confirmed the indirect effect of environmental sensitivity on environmental behavioural intentions. The sample of the study is mixed with various units such as students and professionals. The sample was not represented in any particular section of society. The responses of the respondents were measured at a five-point Likert scale. For better results, the seven-point Likert scale can be better. The study can be replicated in another region of India. Multi-group analysis can be a better scope of research in the future. The model can be compared based on demographic information, region, etc.

Practical implications

The government can rectify or make various policies on environmental protection based on the findings. The results can be useful for identifying training needs for the general mass. The study suggests that the government can organize various seminars on specific issues at the general platform. Overall, the study is also useful in policymaking and implementation regarding environmental protection.

Originality/value

As per the best of our knowledge, this is the first study exploring a causal link between environmental sensitivity, environmental responsibility and environmental protection conducted in India. The observed mediation effect of the ES on the EBI through ER adds new knowledge on the topic. As per the methodology point of view, the latest guidelines regarding PLS-SEM and mediation are followed, which can be useful for research in the future. Overall, the findings of the study exhibit an important contribution to the academic, methodology and general mass.
P2P supply chain financing, R&D investment and companies' innovation efficiency
Authors: Pan Xiongfeng , Guo Shucen , Chu Junhui
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of peer-to-peer (P2P) supply chain financing on companies' innovation efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

This study takes the core companies that invest in the P2P platform as the research background and uses data for Chinese companies and the systematic Generalised Method of Moments (the systematic GMM) to explore the relationship between the improvement of supply chain efficiency, research and development (R&D) investment, and innovation efficiency.

Findings

This study indicates that core enterprise investment in P2P can cause a significant improvement in the efficiency of the supply chain and that this improvement can significantly motivate enterprises to increase R&D investment. Although the improvement of supply chain efficiency has no significant effect on improving companies' innovation efficiency, it can have a positive impact on innovation efficiency through the regulating role of R&D investment.

Research limitations/implications

This research shows several limitations such as single industry and few companies involved, but it analyses the impact of P2P supply chain financing on R&D investment, and companies' innovation efficiency and broadens the research field of P2P supply chain financing.

Practical implications

This article provides a theoretical direction for listed companies to invest in P2P platforms and achieve supply chain management. The research on the regulating role of this article provides a new way of thinking for the study of enterprise innovation.

Originality/value

This paper analyses the impact of the core enterprise investment in P2P on R&D investment and its subsequent impact on the companies' innovation efficiency, thus broadening the research field of P2P supply chain financing.
Staff and students’ perception of implementing flexible working arrangements in institution of higher education
Authors: Mwando Sam M. , Issa Amin , Kangotue Verinjaerako
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the perception of university staff and students in implementing flexible working arrangements (FWA) to increase space efficiency, lower overheads and improve productivity at the Namibia University of Science and Technology.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected using questionnaires, interviews and document searches. A total of 253 university staff (academic and support) and students were surveyed to solicit their perceptions on the extent to which FWA could be implemented to ensure space optimisation, minimise property related costs and improve employee productivity.

Findings

The study confirms that the successful implementation of FWA needs coordinated institutional policy to effectively support and cater to university staff’s different needs while meeting those of the university. Implementing FWA may reduce demand on utilities resulting in lower overheads for the institution. Based on the findings, the study is inconclusive on whether FWA improves or reduces staff productivity.

Practical implications

In the era of austerity measures in institutions of higher education (IHE), with rapid advances in communication information technologies, FWA are not only a possibility but inevitable to ensure optimal use of space, lower operating costs and improved work productivity. This study provides a cursory understanding of the possibility to implementing FWA in higher education.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the FWA body of knowledge from the perspective of both academic, non-academic staff and students in IHE.