bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Operational performance improvement through continuous improvement initiatives in micro-enterprises of Turkey
Authors: Inan Guven Gurkan , Gungor Zahit Ergun , Bititci Umit Sezer , Halim-Lim Sarina Abdul
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Micro-enterprises have a vital role in the development of a nation by creating employment, encouraging entrepreneurship, balancing social income and educating the workforce. Yet, micro-enterprises face significant operational challenges such as low productivity, high production costs and long changeover times. These challenges are often overlooked by researchers and practitioners but have a drastic impact on micro-enterprises' operational performance. With over 95% of the economy consisting of micro-enterprises, it is vital to improve operational performance and competitiveness of the micro-enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

Considering the data availability and practical challenges of gathering data from micro-enterprises, an action research methodology was selected as a suitable research method. Following the initial diagnostic visits, planned interventions were prepared and results were observed to gather data and draw conclusions.

Findings

Findings suggest that commonly adapted performance improvement initiatives by large enterprises cannot be directly applied in micro-enterprises to enhance operational performance. Micro-enterprises lack the critical resources and company culture to easily adapt these initiatives. On the other hand, when these performance improvement initiatives are filtered according to specific needs of micro-enterprises, continuous improvement initiatives were often found to be effective in improving operational performance. Specifically, 5S, single-minute exchange of dies (SMED), suggestion schemes, layout improvements, management coaching, visual management, empowerment were found to be useful and suitable to address command and control culture, low productivity, unorganised workspace, undelegated authority, low skilled employees and unwillingness to take responsibility problems.

Research limitations/implications

Further research is required to investigate the specific factors that affect the adaptation of continuous improvement initiatives such as culture and industry type.

Originality/value

This research extends and contributes the current literature on continuous improvement initiatives by revealing how performance improvement initiatives need to be filtered according to the specific needs of micro-enterprises, and how these initiatives can be used to address specific problems to improve operational efficiency. It provides a conceptual framework to guide the decision-making process on operational performance improvement in micro-enterprises.
Toward an understanding of the relationship between LMX and performance over time: the role of trust in leader and appraisal satisfaction
Authors: Gabel-Shemueli Rachel , Riva Zaferson Franco Alberto
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this two-wave longitudinal study was to examine the impact of leader–member exchange (LMX) on employee performance through trust in leader and appraisal satisfaction both cross-sectionally and after one year, and the reciprocal effect of employee performance on LMX one year later.

Design/methodology/approach

A full panel data design was applied and the sample consisted of 289 employees of a Peruvian insurance organization. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

The results show the relationship between LMX and performance was sequentially mediated by trust in leader and appraisal satisfaction on both occasions. Additionally, employee performance at Time 1 positively influenced LMX at Time 2.

Originality/value

This study highlights the dynamic and complex relationship between LMX and employee performance over time while identifying relevant variables that influence it.
Designing for construction procurement: an integrated Decision Support System for Building Information Modelling
Authors: Babaeian Jelodar Mostafa , Wilkinson Suzanne , Kalatehjari Roohollah , Zou Yang
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Many applications of Building Information modelling (BIM) are already integrated into project management processes. However, the construction industry is suffering from poor decision-making, especially during procurement where fundamental decisions are made. To make the best decisions at earlier project stages, such as design, large amount of information needs to be processed and classified. Therefore, this study seeks to create a Decision Support System (DSS) for construction procurement through the application of existing informatics infrastructure and BIM applications.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature review expert interviews and case studies with complex procurement considerations were used to identify and validate attributes and criterions for procurement decision-making. Accordingly, Multi-Attribute Utility Theory (MAUT) methodology was used and mathematical models were driven as the foundation for a DSS.

Findings

Five major criterions of time, cost, relationship quality, sustainability and quality of work performed was identified for complex construction procurement decision-making. Accordingly, a DSS structure and mathematical model was proposed. Based on this a model architecture was developed for the integration of the DSS into Autodesk Revit as a BIM platform, and assist in pre-contract decision-making.

Practical implications

The results can be used in pre-contract selection processes via currently used BIM applications. The model architecture can integrate DSS outputs to nD models, cloud systems and potentially virtual reality facilities to facilitate better construction operations and smarter more automated processes.

Originality/value

This study formulates and captures complex and unstructured information on construction procurement into a practical DSS model. The study provides a link to integrate solutions with already available platforms and technologies. The study also introduces the concept of designing for procurement; which can be expanded to other challenging decisions during construction.
Toward understanding three phases of individual responses to paradox
Authors: Birkelund Gunnar
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to further paradox research at the individual level through applying a framework of three phases of individual response to paradox – recognition, understanding and behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

Critical and integrative review of previous studies of individual responses to paradox.

Findings

The role of individual understanding is limited in extant research on individual responses to paradox. Individual understanding tends to be equated with behaviour, and thus knowledge of understanding is not differentiated enough, neither is the link between understanding and behaviour sufficiently developed.

Research limitations/implications

The review does not consider the relationship to interactional, organisational and environmental contexts. The recommendation for future research is to explore individual responses to paradox more entirely, to provide an adequate ground for extending paradox theory across individual and broader levels of analysis.

Originality/value

The review contributes to paradox theory by separating individual understanding and then providing a framework in which recognition, understanding and behaviour can be reintegrated in new ways. In addition to more accurate discernment of individual understanding and of combinations of responses across phases, the three-phase framework facilitates investigation of more intricate influences across phases and paths of evolution of such responses over time.
The social network antecedents to consumer engagement: revealing how consumers' conversations influence online engagement behaviors
Authors: Qu Yan , Saffer Adam J. , Riffe Daniel
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Consumer engagement has become a critical component to many brands' relationship and promotional efforts. Empirical studies have documented the psychological elements that can drive consumers to engage with brands. However, there is a knowledge gap regarding how consumer engagement is influenced by the social environment consumers are embedded in. Taking an egocentric network approach, this study explores the social network factors that affect different dimensions of consumers' online engagement behaviors with a brand.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey with an egocentric network design was employed, and 263 completed responses were collected from college students in US. The dimensionality of consumer engagement was validated using exploratory factor analysis. The hypotheses were tested through three sets of hierarchical regression models.

Findings

The results suggest that consumer engagement with a brand was partially shaped by the attributes of consumers' brand discussion networks that emerge from their conversations about a brand with others in everyday life. Specifically, the size, heterogeneity, and density to consumers' discussion networks were associated with certain engagement behaviors.

Originality/value

This study introduces a novel type of network method known as egocentric network analysis to explore and investigate the social network antecedents to consumer engagement behavior. It advances the conception of consumer engagement as a dynamic process influencing and is influenced by consumers' social interactions rather than merely a product of their psychological mechanisms. The study contributes to a social network approach to examining and conceptualizing consumer engagement.
Sustainable corporate governance and new auditing issues: a preliminary empirical evidence on key audit matters
Authors: Fera Pietro , Pizzo Michele , Vinciguerra Rosa , Ricciardi Giorgio
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the relationship between the quality of internal corporate governance mechanisms and the audit issues disclosed by external auditors in their report, assuming the beneficial effect related to the adoption of a sustainable corporate governance system.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper investigates the impact of the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board’s ISA 701 in the European context as a new auditing principle supporting the key audit matters (KAMs) in reporting and disclosing auditing activities. The analysis is carried out through a quantitative methodology using a sample composed of non-financial companies listed on the Italian Stock Exchange.

Findings

Empirical findings highlight that firms having a high quality and sustainable corporate governance system tend to have fewer KAMs arising from the audit process and then disclosed in the audit report. To ensure the reliability of the empirical analysis, the authors controlled for a set of variables that could affect the audit function and for the mediating role of the overall business complexity (as proxied by the firm size).

Originality/value

This study is of interest to academics, practitioners and regulators, as it highlights the role of a higher quality internal corporate governance on the perceived corporate riskiness and complexity. It contributes to the recent debate on sustainable corporate governance, corporate sustainability and auditing streams.
Dynamic warpage simulation of molded PCB under reflow process
Authors: Edmund Sek Chun Hei , Abdullah M.Z. , Hwa Yu Kok Hwa , Wong Shaw Fong
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This study aims to simulate molded printed circuit board (PCB) warpage behavior under reflow temperature distribution. Simulation models are used to estimate dynamic warpage behavior for different form factor sizes.

Design/methodology/approach

This study analyzes warpage during the reflow process. The shadow moiré experiment methodology is used to collect data on the dynamic warpage performance of a model with a form factor of 10mm × 10mm × 1mm. The temperature profile with heating from 25°C to 300°C at intervals of 50°C is used, and the sample is made to undergo a cooling process until it reaches the room temperature. Subsequently, ANSYS static structural simulation is performed on similar form factor models to ascertain the accuracy of the simulation results.

Findings

Results show that the deformation and total force induced by coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) mismatch are examined based on the warpage performance of models with different sizes, that is, 45mm × 45mm × 1mm and 45mm × 15mm × 1mm. Compared with the experimental data, the simulated modeling accuracy yields a less than 5% deviation in the dynamic warpage prediction at a reflow temperature of 300°C. Results also reveal that the larger the model, the larger the warpage changes under the reflow temperature.

Research limitations/implications

The simulated warpage is limited to the temperature and force induced by CTE mismatch between two materials. The form factor of the ball-grid array model is limited to only three different sizes. The model is assumed to be steady, isothermal and static. The simulation adopts homogenous materials, as it cannot accurately model nonhomogeneous multilayered composite materials.

Practical implications

This study can provide engineers and researchers with a profound understanding of molded PCB warpage, minimal resource utilization and the improved product development process.

Social implications

The accurate prediction of molded PCB warpage can enable efficient product development and reduce resources and production time, thereby creating a sustainable environment.

Originality/value

The literature review points out that warpage in various types of PCBs was successfully examined, and that considerable efforts were exerted to investigate warpage reduction in PCB modules. However, PCB warpage studies are limited to bare PCBs. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the examination of warpage in a molded PCB designed with a molded compound cover, as depicted in Figure 3, is yet to be conducted. A molded compound provides strong lattice support for PCBs to prevent deformation during the reflow process, which is a topic of considerable interest and should be explored.
The influence of public health information sharing on social media during the early COVID-19 outbreak
Authors: Chen Chiao-Chieh , Chiu Yu-Ping
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Social media have become famous platform to search and share the COVID-19-related information. The objective of this research is to bridge the gap by proposing the effects of network cluster and transmitter activity on information sharing process.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected by using Facebook application, which was available for 14 days (May 1–14) in 2020. These data were analyzed to determine the influence of the network cluster and transmitter activity.

Findings

The results showed that network cluster is positively related to transmitter activity on social media. In addition, transmitter activity partially mediated the effect of network cluster on the extent of information liked and shared. That is, transmitter activity can affect COVID-19-related information sharing on Facebook, and the activity effect is plausible and should become stronger as social network become denser.

Originality/value

This study has contributed to the knowledge of health information sharing in social media and has generated new opportunities for research into the role of network cluster. As social media is firmly entrenched in society, researches that improve the experience or quality for users is potentially impactful.
How perceived corporate social responsibility and public knowledge affect public participation intention: evidence from Chinese waste incineration power projects
Authors: Wan Xin , Zhang Yantong , Mao Peng , Li Hongyang , Wang Rubing , Yi Xin , Zhao Xianbo
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Public participation is essential for mitigating local resistance faced by the environmentally stigmatized facilities. The purpose of this study is to investigate public participation intention in the decision-making of waste incineration power (WIP) projects by examining the role of perceived corporate social responsibility (PCSR) and public knowledge (PK) based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB).

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical model correlating PCSR with public participation intention was developed by using the constructs of TPB as the mediators and PK as the moderator. Drawing on structural equation modeling (SEM), the data collected from 485 local residents of the WIP projects in Jiangsu, China were analyzed to test the model.

Findings

Companies' CSR practice went through public attitude, subjective norm and personal norm as mediating steps towards promoting participation intention. PK positively moderated the indirect relationships between PCSR and participation intention. Moreover, attitude, subjective norm and personal norm were found to have a positive effect on participation intention.

Originality/value

This study advances the understanding of public participation intention and enriches the literature relating to CSR and TPB involved in infrastructure development. In order to improve public participation intention, companies should take strategic social responsibility actions and present the benefits and moral values of the activities to the public, and as well make effort to diffuse WIP-related knowledge through interactive activities with the public. Authorities should establish social and personal value systems that praise public participation and improve their expectations of participation outcomes.
Effect of cyberbullying on employee creativity: examining the roles of family social support and job burnout
Authors: Mushtaq Wajeeha , Qammar Ahmad , Shafique Imran , Anjum Zafar-Uz-Zaman
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of cyberbullying at work on employee creativity with moderating role of family social support (FSS) and mediating role of job burnout.

Design/methodology/approach

Using convenience sampling technique, data were collected from 212 employees working in manufacturing sector. The partial least square-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Results reveal that cyberbullying has found to be negatively associated with employee creativity and positively linked with job burnout. Furthermore, job burnout has negative connection with employee creativity; however, job burnout does not mediate the link between cyberbullying and creativity.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides comprehensive insights in the literature about the negative workplace context (cyberbullying) as antecedent, job-linked psychological exhaustion (job burnout) as mediation and generation of original thoughts by employees (employee creativity) as consequence.

Originality/value

Examination of FSS as coping strategy and job burnout as underlying mechanism between the cyberbullying and employee creativity is the novelty of the present research.
Dual-phase-lag model for a nonlocal micropolar thermoelastic half-space subjected to gravitational field and inclined load
Authors: Kumar Sunil , Kadian Aarti , Kalkal Kapil Kumar
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the disturbances in a two-dimensional nonlocal, micropolar elastic medium under the dual-phase-lag model of thermoelasticity whose surface is subjected to an inclined mechanical load. The present study is carried out under the influence of gravity.

Design/methodology/approach

The normal mode technique is used to obtain the exact expressions of the physical fields.

Findings

For inclined mechanical load, the impact of micropolarity, nonlocal parameter, gravity and inclination angle have been highlighted on the considered physical fields.

Originality/value

The numerical results are computed for various physical quantities such as displacement, stresses and temperature for a magnesium crystal-like material and are illustrated graphically. The study is valuable for the analysis of thermoelastic problems involving gravitational field, nonlocal parameter, micropolarity and elastic deformations.
Entropy generation and heat transport of Cu–water nanoliquid in porous lid-driven cavity through magnetic field
Authors: Marzougui Souad , Mebarek-Oudina Fateh , Magherbi Mourad , Mchirgui Ali
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of Ha and the Nanoparticles (NP) volume fraction over the irreversibility and heat transport in Darcy–Forchheimer nanofluid saturated lid-driven porous medium.

Design/methodology/approach

The present paper highlights entropy generation because of mixed convection for a lid-driven porous enclosure filled through a nanoliquid and submitted to a uniform magnetic field. The analysis is achieved using Darcy–Brinkman–Forchheimer technique. The set of partial differential equations governing the considered system was numerically solved using the finite element method.

Findings

The main observations are as follows. The results indicate that the movement of horizontal wall is an important factor for the entropy generation inside the porous cavity filled through Cu–water nanoliquid. The variation of the thermal entropy generation is linear through NPs volume fraction. The total entropy generation reduces when the Darcy, Hartmann and the nanoparticle volume fraction increase. The porous media and magnetic field effects reduce the total entropy generation.

Practical implications

Interest in studying thermal interactions by convective flow within a saturating porous medium has many fundamental considerations and has received extensive consideration in the literature because of its usefulness in a large variety of engineering applications, such as the energy storage and solar collectors, crystal growth, food processing, nuclear reactors and cooling of electronic devices, etc.

Originality/value

By examining the literature, the authors found that little attention has been paid to entropy generation encountered during convection of nanofluids. Hence, this work aims to numerically study entropy generation and heat transport in a lid-driven porous enclosure filled with a nanoliquid.
Supply chain performance in the power distribution sector
Authors: Owusu Kwateng Kwame , Kwakye Agartha , Tetteh Francis Kamewor , Opoku-Mensah Shirley
Published: September 2021

Purpose

In today’s highly competitive milieu, many organizations are entering into the international market to gain greater share and take advantage of higher production. However, the introduction of advanced technology has brought a significant amount of competition within the supply chain especially within the bounds of the power distribution sector. This study aims to examine how information and knowledge sharing influence supply chain performance in the power distribution sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The quantitative method and cross-sectional survey design were used in the study. A sample of 200 officers specifically selected from power distribution companies was used for the study. Data was analysed using descriptive, correlation, regression and structural equation models.

Findings

The relationship between information sharing, knowledge sharing and performance of the supply chain are positively mediated by supply chain collaboration. The findings indicate that technological innovation positively moderates the relationship between information sharing, knowledge sharing and supply chain performance.

Practical implications

Information sharing, knowledge sharing and technological innovation are critical indicators driving the supply chain operation of power distribution organizations.

Originality/value

This study presents a contemporary approach towards understanding knowledge and information sharing as antecedents of supply chain performance.
Development of program for “Global Lesson Study” in mathematics education
Authors: Sakai Takeshi , Akai Hideyuki , Ishizaka Hiroki , Tamura Kazuyuki , Ozawa Hiroaki , Lee Yew-Jin
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this exploratory study was to develop Global Lesson Study (GLS) defined as an international collaborative lesson study through international exchange of teachers using ICT. Its purpose is to nurture teachers from different countries with intercultural competence to conduct lesson study.

Design/methodology/approach

We developed an initial program for GLS in the subject of mathematics education between elementary school teachers in Japan and Singapore. The qualitative analysis of activities at each stage of the Pilot GLS was conducted from two perspectives: (1) intercultural competence for lesson study and (2) teacher's competency for subject instruction.

Findings

Through GLS, a new lesson was created that was only possible with discussions from teachers from different locations. It was clarified that GLS was not only useful for training teachers with intercultural competence for lesson study but also has led to the improvement of teacher's competency for subject instruction in mathematics.

Originality/value

The GLS is a new attempt in the sense of developing a high-quality lesson study method for creating new lessons as well as improving qualities and abilities of teachers through international exchange.
Exploring the resource manager role in a project-based organization
Authors: Nesheim Torstein
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The author aims to explore and provide new insights on the resource manager role in a matrix-like project-based organization. What is the content of this role and the challenges as perceived by role incumbents?

Design/methodology/approach

This a case study of a large project department in an industrial organization. The main source of data is interviews with 12 respondents.

Findings

The author describes and analyzes several mechanisms related to the key tasks of resource allocation, competence development and performance appraisals. Key challenges are the magnitude of stakeholders, especially the relationship with the project manager. To cope with these challenges, resource managers engage in extensive networking and recurrent dialog with the project manager. In addition, system knowledge and a sociable personality are perceived to enhance coping.

Research limitations/implications

One case. 12 interviews were conducted at one point in time. The resource manager is a specific type of line manager, complementing a task (project) manager. Hypotheses and research questions based on empirical findings are identified.

Practical implications

Organizational structure and the content of managerial roles are important in order to understand HRM challenges and activities in project-based organizations. Networking, relation maintenance and system knowledge and sociable and creative mindsets are key success factors for resource managers in large matrix-like project-based organizations.

Originality/value

One of the few in-depth studies of the resource manager in a project-based organization. A novel organizational context for the study of roles in HRM. A number of suggestions for further research.
Study of seismic-responses and semi-active control of Taizhou Bridge under multi-support excitation
Authors: Huang Ming , Zhang Zhiqiang , Wei Peizi , Liu Fei , Ding Youliang
Published: September 2021

Purpose

In order to make sure of the safety of a long-span suspension bridge under earthquake action, this paper aims to study the traveling wave effect of the bridge under multi-support excitation and optimize the semi-active control schemes based on magneto-rheological (MR) dampers considering reference index as well as economical efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

The finite element model of the long-span suspension bridge is established in MATLAB and ANSYS software, which includes different input currents and semi-active control conditions. Six apparent wave velocities are used to conduct non-linear time history analysis in order to consider the seismic response influence in primary members under traveling wave effect. The parameters α and β, which are key parameters of classical linear optimal control algorithm, are optimized and analyzed taking into account five different combinations to obtain the optimal control scheme.

Findings

When the apparent wave velocity is relatively small, the influence on the structural response is oscillatory. Along with the increase of the apparent wave velocity, the structural response is gradually approaching the response under uniform excitation. Semi-active control strategy based on MR dampers not only restrains the top displacement of main towers and relative displacement between towers and girders, but also affects the control effect of internal forces. For classical linear optimal control algorithm, the values of two parameters (α and β) are 100 and 8 × 10–6 considering the optimal control effect and economical efficiency.

Originality/value

The emphasis of this study is the traveling wave effect of the triple-tower suspension bridge under multi-support excitation. Meanwhile, the optimized parameters of semi-active control schemes using MR dampers have been obtained, providing relevant references in improving the seismic performance of three-tower suspension bridge.
Exploring the drivers and consequences of the “awe” emotion in outdoor sports – a study using the latest partial least squares structural equation modeling technique and necessary condition analysis
Authors: Liu Yide , Yu Cheng , Damberg Svenja
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Awe is an essential post-experience assessment; nevertheless, few studies have discussed its role in the field of outdoor sports or outdoor sports tourism. In this study, the authors aim to examine the effects of awe on participants' satisfaction and behavioral intention by considering the perceived vastness of the natural environment, perceived professionalism, and self-image congruity as drivers.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors proposed and empirically tested a research model based on a survey with 480 responses collected in China. The effect of awe is explored from the perspectives of both sufficiency logic and necessity logic by applying the combined use of partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and necessary condition analysis (NCA).

Findings

The results show that the perceived vastness of the natural environment, perceived professionalism and self-image congruity are sufficient conditions for awe: these factors affect awe positively, which, in turn, positively affect satisfaction and behavioral intention. Furthermore, both the perceived vastness of the natural environment and perceived professionalism represent a necessary condition for awe. Awe acts as a necessary and sufficient condition for both participants' satisfaction and behavioral intention.

Practical implications

The results of this study suggest that the generation of awe can be used as a business strategy to influence outdoor sports participants' choices in practice. In addition to the unique natural environment, professional exercising and self-realization are key success factors in enhancing the positive evaluations of outdoor sports participants.

Originality/value

This study is a first attempt to identify the role of awe in outdoor sports activities. Methodologically, it provides a paradigm for the combined use of PLS-SEM and NCA in sports management research by identifying the necessary and sufficient effects of awe on outdoor sports participants' post-experience evaluation.
Decision-makers’ logic of control and SME international performance
Authors: Karami Masoud , Tang Jintong
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the mediating role of founders/managers’ logic of control in transforming experiential knowledge and human capital into successful international performance of small- and medium-sized enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a quantitative methodology, this study used hierarchical regression analysis to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Drawing upon effectuation theory, the study proposed and found empirical evidence for the logic of control as an important mechanism that transforms experiential knowledge and human capital into international performance.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the international entrepreneurship (IE) research by investigating how the application of logic of control by SME founders/managers enables them to make use of their experiential knowledge and human capital as important intangible means to achieve successful international performance. The study tested the model in New Zealand wherein SMEs play a central role in economic development and depend heavily on international markets for survival and growth.
Revisiting the Solow growth model: new empirical evidence on the convergence debate
Authors: Alataş Sedat
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This paper investigates income convergence using different convergence concepts and methodologies for 72 countries over the period between 1960 and 2010.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies beta (β), sigma (s), stochastic and club convergence approaches. For β-convergence analysis, it derives the cross-country growth regressions of the Solow growth model under the basic and augmented Cobb–Douglass (CD) production functions and estimates them using cross-section and panel data estimators. While it employs both the widely used coefficient of variation and recently developed weak s-convergence approaches for s-convergence, it applies three different unit root tests for stochastic convergence. To test club convergence, it estimates the log-t regression.

Findings

The results reveal that (1) there exists conditional β-convergence, meaning that poorer countries grow faster than richer countries; (2) income per worker is not (weakly) s-converging, and cross-sectional variation does not tend to fall over the years; (3) stochastic convergence is not found and (4) countries in the sample do not converge to the unique equilibrium, and there exist five distinctive convergence clubs.

Research limitations/implications

The results clearly show that heavily relying on one of the convergence techniques might lead researchers to obtain misleading results regarding the existence of convergence. Therefore, to draw reliable inferences, the results should be checked using different convergence concepts and methodologies.

Originality/value

Contrary to the previous literature, which is generally restricted to testing the existence of absolute and conditional β-convergence between countries, to the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first study to consider and compare all originally and recently developed fundamental concepts of convergence altogether. Besides, it uses the Penn World Table (PWT) 9.1 and extends the period to 2010. From this point of view, this study is believed to provide the most up-to-date empirical evidence.
Entrepreneurial resilience and self-efficacy during global crisis: study of small businesses in a developing economy
Authors: Sharma Sarika , Rautela Sonica
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Entrepreneurship and entrepreneurs have become increasingly important around the globe considering its positive impact on productivity and employment by economic theoreticians, analysts and researchers. The purpose of this paper is to study the entrepreneurial resilience and self-efficacy of founders of small businesses in India during the global crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative research method is adopted for analyzing the data collected through a structured questionnaire. In total, 72 small entrepreneurs participated in the study. For analysis of the responses, thematic content analysis is carried out using a four steps method. Codes are generated from the data, which are used to formulate sub-categories. The sub-categories are arranged into a thematic framework by the researchers.

Findings

The paper proposes a framework as an outcome of the study, which is discussed in detail in later sections. The framework comprises of four broad areas, namely, modifications (process/product/business model); impact on functional areas; technology adoption; and sources of business continuation. The linking of these is also presented in a pictorial representation.

Originality/value

This paper provides meaningful insights on entrepreneurial resilience and self-efficacy of small businesses in turbulent times. The theoretical contribution is in form of a proposed framework and an addition in the literature of entrepreneurial resilience for the developing economies. The findings can be used for the practical and policy implications, which may lead toward offering better understanding and clarity to the stakeholders. It may also show trajectory to authorities for formulating long-term strategies for the survival of small businesses in the region.
Financial reporting quality and the effects of CFO gender and board gender diversity
Authors: Davis Justin G. , Garcia-Cestona Miguel
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of chief financial officer (CFO) gender, board gender diversity and the interaction of both factors on financial reporting quality (FRQ) proxied by restatements.

Design/methodology/approach

Restatements indicate inaccurate financial reporting. The authors use fixed effects conditional logistic regression models to compare firms with and without restatements matched by size, industry and year. The authors’ unique matched–pair sample consists of 546 listed US firms from the period 2005–2016.

Findings

The authors’ results provide evidence that restatements are less likely when the CFO is a woman and when a higher proportion of women serve on the board of directors (BOD). Considering the interaction effects, the authors find evidence that women on the BOD are more effective at reducing restatement likelihood when the CFO is also a woman. And that although female CFOs reduce restatement likelihood generally, they have no statistically significant effect on restatement likelihood when the BOD is all-male.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first that the authors know of to consider how FRQ is affected by the interaction effects of CFO gender and board gender diversity. The findings corroborate upper echelons theory and extend the understanding of the effects of managerial gender diversity at a time when firms face growing pressure to increase gender diversity at the highest levels. The unique sample, methodology and findings provide new insights into the impact of gender on FRQ that has important policy implications.
Improving outcomes for trauma-experienced individuals through the delivery of trauma awareness training for multi-organisational public sector workers
Authors: Richmond Erin , McColm Robert , McCaig Marie , Binnie Vikki
Published: September 2021

Purpose

In support of the national requirement “to ensure that Scotland has a workforce that is fully aware of the impact of trauma, and is equipped to respond appropriately to people who have experienced trauma at any age”, Trauma Awareness Training was delivered to various public sector organisations across Dumfries and Galloway. Research has shown that trauma can significantly impact quality of life (Svanberg, Bonney and McNair, 2011; Bentall et al., 2014). A trauma-informed practice workshop was created and evaluated in response to a need for training within public services for individuals working with clients whom have experienced trauma.

Design/methodology/approach

From May 2018 to December 2019, 10 one-day Trauma-Awareness Training courses were delivered, engaging 224 public service workers from Police Scotland, Scottish Fire Service, Relationship Scotland, Shelter Scotland and DandG Council staff working with trauma-experienced individuals. The training was delivered via PowerPoint, short videos, whiteboard explanations/drawings and case examples. The morning workshop concentrated on defining psychological trauma, understanding the psychological process of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and the subsequent consequences. The afternoon session focussed primarily on complex PTSD, the role of adverse childhood experiences, attachment and emotional regulation/dysregulation and trauma-focused working with the wider multi-disciplinary workforce. The training concluded with participants developing strategies for coping with trauma. Participants were asked to complete three questionnaires: pre-training questionnaire on perceived knowledge of trauma and delivering trauma practice. Post-training questionnaire on perceived knowledge of trauma and delivering trauma practice to assess change and training evaluation. A third questionnaire was issued seven months after training to establish the impact of training on practice.

Findings

Findings evidence a positive impact on person-centred care. In terms of quality improvement, participants felt: The training was relevant across services and raised awareness of the importance of trauma-informed practice. They had a greater awareness of trauma-related issues with individuals. Confident in implementing learned skills to assist those who have experience of trauma. They could build better relationships with their service users, with patients feeling more understood.

Originality/value

Project findings identified a need for multi-organisational working and consultancy from psychological services to improve access to services. Ultimately, brief trauma-awareness training for staff can lead to more positive experiences for patients.
Fading away at work: “I could have left without saying anything” – performing talent management in a multinational organization
Authors: Gillberg Nanna , Wikström Ewa
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This study was undertaken in order to show how talent management (TM) was performed in practice in a multinational organization as well as how the TM practices affected both different groups of workers and the perception of talent within the organization.

Design/methodology/approach

Performing talent management was reassessed in the relationship between TM practices, view and identification of talent, attributed positioning and self-positioning of older and younger workers; retrieved from an exploratory single case study in a multinational organization, based on interviews.

Findings

The findings illustrate that despite the struggling to fill key positions with skilled workers, the studied organization adopted approaches to TM that excluded older workers' talent. First, central to performing TM was how talent was viewed and identified, and second, two types of positioning acts were important: the organizations (re)producing of talent management through attributive positioning acts on older/younger workers and older workers' self-positioning of their own talent. The two sides of performing talent management were complex and intertwined resulting in an age-based devaluation of talent at work.

Practical implications

The study points to important issues in designing and performing TM that may be useful to HR and managers as a point of departure in the development of more inclusive approaches to TM.

Originality/value

The concept “performing talent management” was developed as an intertwined relationship between on-going positioning acts and (re)production of status, talent and age at work; recognizing preferences of what was viewed and identified as valued talent as main drivers made it possible to develop an understanding of exclusion and inclusion mechanisms in performing TM.
Reliable assumptions for structural fire design of steel car parks
Authors: Hertz Kristian Dahl , Sørensen Lars Schiøtt , Giuliani Luisa
Published: September 2021

Purpose

This study aims to analyze and discuss the key design assumptions needed for design of car parks in steel, to highlight the impact that the increased fire loads introduced by modern cars and changes in the fire dynamics have on the design, such as fire spread leading to non-localized fires.

Design/methodology/approach

In particular, a reliable fire load density to be used for structural design of car park structures is assessed, based on investigations of the fire loads of modern cars. Based on knowledge of fire load and fire performance of cars, the consequences on the fire safety design of steel structures are presented.

Findings

Design recommendation about fire load density and fire protection of common steel profiles are given. Finally, the proposed design is compared with a design practice that has been applied in many instances for car parks constructed with unprotected steel, and recommendations for a reliable design process are provided.

Originality/value

Numerous car park buildings have recently been designed of steel structures without passive or active fire protection. The key assumptions that makes possible such design are local fire scenarios, outdated values of the car fire load and utilization of the ultimate steel strength. This paper identifies the shortcomings of such key assumptions, indicating the need for revisiting the methods and possibly even checking the analyses carried out for some already-built car parks.
A literature review on total quality management (models, frameworks, and tools and techniques) in higher education
Authors: Jasti Naga Vamsi Krishna , Venkateswaran V. , Kota Srinivas , Sangwan Kuldip Singh
Published: September 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the evolution of total quality management (TQM) models, frameworks, and tools and techniques in higher education (HE) over the last thirty years from 1991 till 2020, based on a literature review

Design/methodology/approach

30 articles from 52 journals were used to perform this detailed literature review. For the detailed analysis, the focus was only on articles related to TQM in higher education and specifically related to models, frameworks and tools and techniques. The study has investigated the growth of research articles, research streams, research methodologies, models and frameworks in the higher education sector and tools and techniques related to those.

Findings

This review addresses the progress and gaps in the application of TQM in HE, including the shift in global research in this area from the USA and Europe to Asia in recent years. The articles have been classified into four research methodologies and two research streams which have been reviewed in detail. The findings include reasons for multiple models/frameworks in HE proposed by researchers over the years and the importance of tools and techniques used in TQM implementation.

Originality/value

This study, which tries to bring a perspective to the main trends in TQM application to higher education wrt models, frameworks, tools and techniques over the last thirty years, is expected to add to the body of knowledge in this area and help future researchers to focus on the relevant areas identified in this paper.