Pub Date : 2021-04-06DOI: 10.1108/AJB-08-2020-0125
Deepika Bansal, Shveta Singh
PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the impact of board structure on financial performance of Indian software companies. It is an empirical study carried out on 92 software companies from 2011 to 2018.Design/methodology/approachThe board size, board independence, board meetings, CEO duality, audit, remuneration and nomination committee are used as board structure variables. Two accounting-based measures, return on assets (ROA), return on equity and one market-based measure Tobin's Q are used as a representative of financial performance of software companies. Panel regression is used to test the hypothesis.FindingsResults demonstrates that board size, board meetings, remuneration and nomination committee have positive impact on more than one performance measures, while audit committee do not have any relation with any of the performance measures. It is also found that CEO duality has negative but significant relation with firm's performance and board independence has negative influence on ROA.Practical implicationsThe findings of the study attract the attention of company's policymakers, shareholders to know the importance of board structure in increasing the firm's performance. The outcome of the study has relevance in other developing economies also. The results of the study can be utilised by policymakers and regulatory bodies in the formulation of good corporate government (CG) practices for the enhancement of profitability and market value of companies.Originality/valueThe findings suggest that special attention should be given to quality of CG, specifically board structure while measuring corporate financial performance.
{"title":"Does board structure impact a firm's financial performance? Evidence from the Indian software sector","authors":"Deepika Bansal, Shveta Singh","doi":"10.1108/AJB-08-2020-0125","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/AJB-08-2020-0125","url":null,"abstract":"PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the impact of board structure on financial performance of Indian software companies. It is an empirical study carried out on 92 software companies from 2011 to 2018.Design/methodology/approachThe board size, board independence, board meetings, CEO duality, audit, remuneration and nomination committee are used as board structure variables. Two accounting-based measures, return on assets (ROA), return on equity and one market-based measure Tobin's Q are used as a representative of financial performance of software companies. Panel regression is used to test the hypothesis.FindingsResults demonstrates that board size, board meetings, remuneration and nomination committee have positive impact on more than one performance measures, while audit committee do not have any relation with any of the performance measures. It is also found that CEO duality has negative but significant relation with firm's performance and board independence has negative influence on ROA.Practical implicationsThe findings of the study attract the attention of company's policymakers, shareholders to know the importance of board structure in increasing the firm's performance. The outcome of the study has relevance in other developing economies also. The results of the study can be utilised by policymakers and regulatory bodies in the formulation of good corporate government (CG) practices for the enhancement of profitability and market value of companies.Originality/valueThe findings suggest that special attention should be given to quality of CG, specifically board structure while measuring corporate financial performance.","PeriodicalId":44116,"journal":{"name":"American Journal of Business","volume":"9 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2021-04-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"75137176","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-03-23DOI: 10.1108/AJB-09-2020-0141
Nandeesh V. Hiremath, A. Mohapatra, Anil Subbarao Paila
Purpose – The digital learning and learning & development (L&D) at workplaces in corporates is having a significant challenge, where only about 1% of the week is spent on L&D by the employees. There are an array ofrecentL&Dreports – byDeloitte,2019;Skillsoft ’ s,2019;LinkedInWorkplaceLearningReport-2019;UKL&D Report-2019; FICCI-NASSCOM and EY “ Future of Jobs ” Report-2017 – which have clearly been indicating that the digital learning is fast-emerging as one of the realistic option. The employees invest their time and energy for skilling/up-skilling/re-skilling for remaining relevant to the emerging business context under volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (VUCA) world and also coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is being researched. Design/methodology/approach – The L&D interventions have primary objective of enhancing skills, competencies and career growth among employees, and the learning engagement styles/ systems are undergoing dramatic paradigm shifts. There is dire need to understand the impact of sweeping changes with Industry 4.0 and HR 4.0; however, there are only a few industry-centric studies that are available to assess the impact of technology on L&D with digital learning. Hence, there is a need to study the factors influencing varioussegmentsofworkforceinlargecorporates,wherethelearningengagementwithdigitallearningisfast-emergingamongcorporates. Findings – Giventhedigitallearning/L&Dcontextincorporates,thisresearchpaperhasattemptedtoreview and analyse the opportunities, challenges and emerging trends with respect to leveraging technology and innovation to enhance L&D to deliver the business goals, under the 70:20:10 framework, with case analysis of tendifferentcorporates(acrossdifferentindustrysectors)viz.,Genpact,Nexval,Airbus,Siemens,AstraZenecaPharma,HPCL,HGS(BPM),HP,FlipkartandIBM.TheA-to-ZofTalentManagementandLeadership Development(adoptedversionfromIndiaLeadershipAcademy,PublicisSapient,2019)bestpracticesareanalysed,summarizedandpresentedtoindicateemergingtrendsinIndustry4.0era. Research limitations/implications
{"title":"A study on digital learning, learning and development interventions and learnability of working executives in corporates","authors":"Nandeesh V. Hiremath, A. Mohapatra, Anil Subbarao Paila","doi":"10.1108/AJB-09-2020-0141","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/AJB-09-2020-0141","url":null,"abstract":"Purpose – The digital learning and learning & development (L&D) at workplaces in corporates is having a significant challenge, where only about 1% of the week is spent on L&D by the employees. There are an array ofrecentL&Dreports – byDeloitte,2019;Skillsoft ’ s,2019;LinkedInWorkplaceLearningReport-2019;UKL&D Report-2019; FICCI-NASSCOM and EY “ Future of Jobs ” Report-2017 – which have clearly been indicating that the digital learning is fast-emerging as one of the realistic option. The employees invest their time and energy for skilling/up-skilling/re-skilling for remaining relevant to the emerging business context under volatility, uncertainty, complexity and ambiguity (VUCA) world and also coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is being researched. Design/methodology/approach – The L&D interventions have primary objective of enhancing skills, competencies and career growth among employees, and the learning engagement styles/ systems are undergoing dramatic paradigm shifts. There is dire need to understand the impact of sweeping changes with Industry 4.0 and HR 4.0; however, there are only a few industry-centric studies that are available to assess the impact of technology on L&D with digital learning. Hence, there is a need to study the factors influencing varioussegmentsofworkforceinlargecorporates,wherethelearningengagementwithdigitallearningisfast-emergingamongcorporates. Findings – Giventhedigitallearning/L&Dcontextincorporates,thisresearchpaperhasattemptedtoreview and analyse the opportunities, challenges and emerging trends with respect to leveraging technology and innovation to enhance L&D to deliver the business goals, under the 70:20:10 framework, with case analysis of tendifferentcorporates(acrossdifferentindustrysectors)viz.,Genpact,Nexval,Airbus,Siemens,AstraZenecaPharma,HPCL,HGS(BPM),HP,FlipkartandIBM.TheA-to-ZofTalentManagementandLeadership Development(adoptedversionfromIndiaLeadershipAcademy,PublicisSapient,2019)bestpracticesareanalysed,summarizedandpresentedtoindicateemergingtrendsinIndustry4.0era. Research limitations/implications","PeriodicalId":44116,"journal":{"name":"American Journal of Business","volume":"8 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2021-03-23","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"75437623","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-03-15DOI: 10.1108/AJB-08-2020-0126
Ahmed Metwaly, A. ElKattan, Menatalla Kaoud
PurposeThe purpose of the presented research paper is to explore the different aspects of crowdsourcing and its evolution over time. Supported by three different case studies, the research focuses on the different factors that affect crowdsourcing for open innovation. Moreover, the findings give us a proposed managerial framework to be considered when adopting crowdsourcing in addition to factors that proved its huge effect on crowdsourcing activities.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative research approach for this research was the most convenient. It focuses on providing an in-depth understanding of the phenomena. Qualitative research represents the views and perspectives of the participants in a study besides it is driven by a desire to explain these events, through existing or emerging concepts (Yin, 2016). Adopting a case study research method that investigates a contemporary phenomenon (the “case”) in depth and within its real-world context, especially when the boundaries between phenomenon and context may not be evident (Yin, 2018) as in crowdsourcing based business model for open innovation.FindingsThe researchers presented the benefits and challenges when considering crowdsourcing establishing a managerial framework for open innovation. Additionally, the researchers identified the different factors that highly affect crowdsourcing proposing a model that can be used for adopting crowdsourcing. The research also presented insights about how crowdsourcing was introduced in the Egyptian market and how it evolved through the years.Research limitations/implicationsThe study had some limitations to be considered in the following work. Company X used crowdsourcing within a high degree of limitations and confidentially consequently, restricting the effects and results of crowdsourcing. Another limitation was that the study has been only qualitative, and the addition of the quantitative approach will numerically support the findings. Moreover, the research depended on the businesses only as of the source of information and neglected the crowd sample.Practical implicationsThe main aim of this study was to address the lack of research evidence on what it means to adopt crowdsourcing for open innovation in Egyptian firms. The authors have done so by adopting three case studies which enabled them to directly observe and report on the daily work of trust CEOs, with special attention to the practices. Whereby, these executives made themselves knowledgeable for all practical purposes, as dictated by their specific job. Accordingly, the first major contribution of the present research is that it provides much-needed empirical data on the actual practices of crowdsourcing in three Egyptian, yet international companies. Moreover, the results could be used as a guideline when considering crowdsourcing activities highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of such activities.Originality/valueThe paper discusses different perspectives of crowdsourcing pres
{"title":"Toward an Egyptian managerial framework based on crowdsourcing for open innovation","authors":"Ahmed Metwaly, A. ElKattan, Menatalla Kaoud","doi":"10.1108/AJB-08-2020-0126","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/AJB-08-2020-0126","url":null,"abstract":"PurposeThe purpose of the presented research paper is to explore the different aspects of crowdsourcing and its evolution over time. Supported by three different case studies, the research focuses on the different factors that affect crowdsourcing for open innovation. Moreover, the findings give us a proposed managerial framework to be considered when adopting crowdsourcing in addition to factors that proved its huge effect on crowdsourcing activities.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative research approach for this research was the most convenient. It focuses on providing an in-depth understanding of the phenomena. Qualitative research represents the views and perspectives of the participants in a study besides it is driven by a desire to explain these events, through existing or emerging concepts (Yin, 2016). Adopting a case study research method that investigates a contemporary phenomenon (the “case”) in depth and within its real-world context, especially when the boundaries between phenomenon and context may not be evident (Yin, 2018) as in crowdsourcing based business model for open innovation.FindingsThe researchers presented the benefits and challenges when considering crowdsourcing establishing a managerial framework for open innovation. Additionally, the researchers identified the different factors that highly affect crowdsourcing proposing a model that can be used for adopting crowdsourcing. The research also presented insights about how crowdsourcing was introduced in the Egyptian market and how it evolved through the years.Research limitations/implicationsThe study had some limitations to be considered in the following work. Company X used crowdsourcing within a high degree of limitations and confidentially consequently, restricting the effects and results of crowdsourcing. Another limitation was that the study has been only qualitative, and the addition of the quantitative approach will numerically support the findings. Moreover, the research depended on the businesses only as of the source of information and neglected the crowd sample.Practical implicationsThe main aim of this study was to address the lack of research evidence on what it means to adopt crowdsourcing for open innovation in Egyptian firms. The authors have done so by adopting three case studies which enabled them to directly observe and report on the daily work of trust CEOs, with special attention to the practices. Whereby, these executives made themselves knowledgeable for all practical purposes, as dictated by their specific job. Accordingly, the first major contribution of the present research is that it provides much-needed empirical data on the actual practices of crowdsourcing in three Egyptian, yet international companies. Moreover, the results could be used as a guideline when considering crowdsourcing activities highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of such activities.Originality/valueThe paper discusses different perspectives of crowdsourcing pres","PeriodicalId":44116,"journal":{"name":"American Journal of Business","volume":"70 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2021-03-15","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"81193663","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-03-05DOI: 10.1108/AJB-08-2020-0138
S. Saha, Subhasree Kar
PurposeThe purpose of this research is to identify the cross-functional factors and their impact after exploratory factor analysis (EFA), especially in B2B context and constructing a model to interpret and quantify the influences (sales performance score) specifically to the IT/ITES companies.Design/methodology/approachGetting answer for a corporate that where its current stand in the industry is important for the strategy making, especially for the sales team. Few academic researches charted direction toward cross-functional sales factors, but getting answer whether we can quantify that sales performance and identify what is the numeric benchmark value, is difficult. For the companies to understand the need to focus on which cross-functional factors and when, is also difficult.FindingsAfter 1,079+ literature study, concluded with the 25 antecedents strongly used in previous studies and 8 more on after focused group study, pilot study and discussion with the industry leaders, 35 questions addressing 33 indicators collected in 10 months duration from 310 sales professionals, 90+ IT companies. Three samples were removed as outliers using “Mahalanobis Distance Test” for multivariate analysis, dropped two variables by “Missing value Not at Random” (MNAR). Final 15 determinants of cross-functional sales performance indicators forming four best factors with very high reliability after EFA to form a future formative model and sales performance score.Research limitations/implications(1) In this study no moderator and mediator effect are analyzed. (2) This study is the precursor to the final model construction. (3) Business down due to recession, global pandemic, terrorism, earthquake, war etc. are not considered during this analysis and study. Only the cross-functional reasons for natural business down have been considered and analyzed. (4) Exact “Sales Performance Score (SPS)” should be calculated after model forming, adjusting and confirmatory factor analysis.Practical implications(1) The major implication of this study would be for IT/ITES companies. It will be very easy for them to quantify the sales performance and measure that scientifically. (2) There will be a way to measure, predict and take measurable actions in case sales performance of the company downfalls. (3) Also the impact will be known to the top management of the company well in advance so that they can make the proper strategy. This will be very useful in current situation when measuring business outcome and make strategy well in advance is of any company's utmost priority.Originality/valueFocusing on these identified factors companies can improve its sales performance. The authors contribute in creating a statistical model and computing a sales performance score, based on the final factor loading values, would be unique and unprecedented to measure the current industry performance by quantifying its standard or benchmark value for better strategic support toward the achievement of ta
{"title":"Computation of sales performance score and key cross-functional factors: a performance dynamics in IT/ITES","authors":"S. Saha, Subhasree Kar","doi":"10.1108/AJB-08-2020-0138","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/AJB-08-2020-0138","url":null,"abstract":"PurposeThe purpose of this research is to identify the cross-functional factors and their impact after exploratory factor analysis (EFA), especially in B2B context and constructing a model to interpret and quantify the influences (sales performance score) specifically to the IT/ITES companies.Design/methodology/approachGetting answer for a corporate that where its current stand in the industry is important for the strategy making, especially for the sales team. Few academic researches charted direction toward cross-functional sales factors, but getting answer whether we can quantify that sales performance and identify what is the numeric benchmark value, is difficult. For the companies to understand the need to focus on which cross-functional factors and when, is also difficult.FindingsAfter 1,079+ literature study, concluded with the 25 antecedents strongly used in previous studies and 8 more on after focused group study, pilot study and discussion with the industry leaders, 35 questions addressing 33 indicators collected in 10 months duration from 310 sales professionals, 90+ IT companies. Three samples were removed as outliers using “Mahalanobis Distance Test” for multivariate analysis, dropped two variables by “Missing value Not at Random” (MNAR). Final 15 determinants of cross-functional sales performance indicators forming four best factors with very high reliability after EFA to form a future formative model and sales performance score.Research limitations/implications(1) In this study no moderator and mediator effect are analyzed. (2) This study is the precursor to the final model construction. (3) Business down due to recession, global pandemic, terrorism, earthquake, war etc. are not considered during this analysis and study. Only the cross-functional reasons for natural business down have been considered and analyzed. (4) Exact “Sales Performance Score (SPS)” should be calculated after model forming, adjusting and confirmatory factor analysis.Practical implications(1) The major implication of this study would be for IT/ITES companies. It will be very easy for them to quantify the sales performance and measure that scientifically. (2) There will be a way to measure, predict and take measurable actions in case sales performance of the company downfalls. (3) Also the impact will be known to the top management of the company well in advance so that they can make the proper strategy. This will be very useful in current situation when measuring business outcome and make strategy well in advance is of any company's utmost priority.Originality/valueFocusing on these identified factors companies can improve its sales performance. The authors contribute in creating a statistical model and computing a sales performance score, based on the final factor loading values, would be unique and unprecedented to measure the current industry performance by quantifying its standard or benchmark value for better strategic support toward the achievement of ta","PeriodicalId":44116,"journal":{"name":"American Journal of Business","volume":"17 1","pages":"3-19"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2021-03-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"83521460","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-03-03DOI: 10.1108/AJB-07-2019-0058
Alan I. Rea, Kaitlin Marshall, Dan Farrell
PurposeThe purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to develop, test and validate a set of dimensions that can verify whether any specific online survey tool can be effectively developed and deployed; second, to provide a framework and working topology for web-based survey tool selection.Design/methodology/approachA panel comprised of five experts determined the validity of the proposed dimensions the authors compiled from extensive feature research of the top online survey software identified by Alexa and Datanyze, which allows for web survey data to be pulled in a customizable fashion over a selected period of time. The validated dimensions were then ranked via a paper survey (n = 98) in a controlled environment using a 9-point Likert scale.FindingsThere was no strong correlation between highest-ranked dimensions and the market share and use of a particular online survey tool. However, overall dimension ranking dominance did predict an online survey tool obtaining higher market implementation and use. In addition, the influence of business roles on dimension weights should be considered when selecting survey software. Finally, two additional dimensions not prevalent in existing research – data analysis and technical support – must be considered in survey tool selection.Practical implicationsOnline survey tools are increasingly supplementing or replacing random telephone-based opinion and polling surveys for data collection on important social issues, political candidacies, etc. Representative samples yielding the most accurate results are more easily obtained via mixed-mode methods that incorporate online survey tools.Originality/valueThe paper's findings suggest which dimensions must be present for widespread acceptance and implementation of a successful web-based online survey tool. Organizations must be able to assess a particular survey tool's viability for their specific purposes. The dimensions presented here can be developed into an effective adoption heuristic to meet an organization's particular requirements. Findings suggest that when evaluating survey software, one must remain cognizant of the various business roles associated with survey software to better account for decision-maker tendencies. For example, managers place greater emphasis on overall cost whereas developers may value survey creation and integration features.
{"title":"Capability of web-based survey software: an empirical review","authors":"Alan I. Rea, Kaitlin Marshall, Dan Farrell","doi":"10.1108/AJB-07-2019-0058","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/AJB-07-2019-0058","url":null,"abstract":"PurposeThe purpose of this paper is twofold: first, to develop, test and validate a set of dimensions that can verify whether any specific online survey tool can be effectively developed and deployed; second, to provide a framework and working topology for web-based survey tool selection.Design/methodology/approachA panel comprised of five experts determined the validity of the proposed dimensions the authors compiled from extensive feature research of the top online survey software identified by Alexa and Datanyze, which allows for web survey data to be pulled in a customizable fashion over a selected period of time. The validated dimensions were then ranked via a paper survey (n = 98) in a controlled environment using a 9-point Likert scale.FindingsThere was no strong correlation between highest-ranked dimensions and the market share and use of a particular online survey tool. However, overall dimension ranking dominance did predict an online survey tool obtaining higher market implementation and use. In addition, the influence of business roles on dimension weights should be considered when selecting survey software. Finally, two additional dimensions not prevalent in existing research – data analysis and technical support – must be considered in survey tool selection.Practical implicationsOnline survey tools are increasingly supplementing or replacing random telephone-based opinion and polling surveys for data collection on important social issues, political candidacies, etc. Representative samples yielding the most accurate results are more easily obtained via mixed-mode methods that incorporate online survey tools.Originality/valueThe paper's findings suggest which dimensions must be present for widespread acceptance and implementation of a successful web-based online survey tool. Organizations must be able to assess a particular survey tool's viability for their specific purposes. The dimensions presented here can be developed into an effective adoption heuristic to meet an organization's particular requirements. Findings suggest that when evaluating survey software, one must remain cognizant of the various business roles associated with survey software to better account for decision-maker tendencies. For example, managers place greater emphasis on overall cost whereas developers may value survey creation and integration features.","PeriodicalId":44116,"journal":{"name":"American Journal of Business","volume":"7 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2021-03-03","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"85081824","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-02-08DOI: 10.1108/AJB-07-2020-0096
E. Quansah, D. Hartz
PurposeApproximately half of all new businesses fail within the first five years of operation. This study was undertaken to understand the behavior of small business (SB) leaders, including their decision-making processes and adaptive leadership practices that enable their organizations to survive during periods of general crisis and intense competition.Design/methodology/approachIn order to understand the lived experiences of our research participants, a constructivist grounded theory approach was used. Thirty-two CEOs and leaders from fifteen organizations were interviewed.FindingsIt was determined that successful SB leaders avoid organizational complacency by being continuous learners, who are agile and flexible in determining appropriate management strategies. Additionally, they leverage time management processes, build strong and productive relationship networks and create positive family-oriented workplace cultures to increase their odds of survival.Research limitations/implicationsThis qualitative study was limited to interviews, observations and analysis of organizational archetypes; therefore, the authors can establish a pattern in behavior but cannot make a causality claim.Practical implicationsThe findings provide SB leaders with effective concepts, practices and strategies from members of their peer group, which they can test, refine and implement.Social implicationsThe impact of business failures is often devastating financially and emotionally for the families and employees involved. Learning methods for strategic adaptation that may help avoid business closures could provide a positive societal contribution.Originality/valueThere is little empirical research about how SBs strategically adapt during challenging periods. This study helps fill that gap and provides an understanding of how SB leaders adapt to continuous challenges, create value and remain competitive in difficult business environments.
{"title":"Strategic adaptation: leadership lessons for small business survival and success","authors":"E. Quansah, D. Hartz","doi":"10.1108/AJB-07-2020-0096","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/AJB-07-2020-0096","url":null,"abstract":"PurposeApproximately half of all new businesses fail within the first five years of operation. This study was undertaken to understand the behavior of small business (SB) leaders, including their decision-making processes and adaptive leadership practices that enable their organizations to survive during periods of general crisis and intense competition.Design/methodology/approachIn order to understand the lived experiences of our research participants, a constructivist grounded theory approach was used. Thirty-two CEOs and leaders from fifteen organizations were interviewed.FindingsIt was determined that successful SB leaders avoid organizational complacency by being continuous learners, who are agile and flexible in determining appropriate management strategies. Additionally, they leverage time management processes, build strong and productive relationship networks and create positive family-oriented workplace cultures to increase their odds of survival.Research limitations/implicationsThis qualitative study was limited to interviews, observations and analysis of organizational archetypes; therefore, the authors can establish a pattern in behavior but cannot make a causality claim.Practical implicationsThe findings provide SB leaders with effective concepts, practices and strategies from members of their peer group, which they can test, refine and implement.Social implicationsThe impact of business failures is often devastating financially and emotionally for the families and employees involved. Learning methods for strategic adaptation that may help avoid business closures could provide a positive societal contribution.Originality/valueThere is little empirical research about how SBs strategically adapt during challenging periods. This study helps fill that gap and provides an understanding of how SB leaders adapt to continuous challenges, create value and remain competitive in difficult business environments.","PeriodicalId":44116,"journal":{"name":"American Journal of Business","volume":"1 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2021-02-08","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"81617580","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-01-14DOI: 10.1108/AJB-08-2020-0133
Pavleen Soni
PurposeIn an era of burgeoning activity in online retail in India, the role of web-store design is paramount. Web-store design elements such as website functionality, brand assortment and product quality are expected to generate customer loyalty.Design/methodology/approachUsing data collected from 553 students from two universities in north India, the present study investigates the indirect effect of web-store dimensions (through website functionality, brand assortment and product quality) on online store loyalty via an enjoyment state (flow) and customer satisfaction. Serial mediation has been analysed through PROCESS macro developed by Hayes version 3.0. In addition to this, the moderating role of gender and purchase frequency has also been investigated.FindingsThe present study renders support to serial mediation between website functionality, flow, customer satisfaction and loyalty. However, the path between brand assortment and loyalty is more strongly mediated by customer satisfaction only. Males experience less flow as compared to females while handling brand assortment on websites. The three-way interaction between brand assortment, gender and purchase frequency is also statistically significant.Originality/valueThe study examines the manner in which online retailers can choose to build customer loyalty when they try to build retail image using web store functionality and /or product/brand assortments. The study offers insights to retailers about how and when to focus on hedonism versus customer satisfaction or both of them in conjunction to enhance customer loyalty. This study is important as it investigates the relationships in Indian scenario witnessing a high rate of growth in online retail which can tremendously affect these relationships.
{"title":"Web-store image dimensions and online retail customer loyalty: investigating mediators and moderators","authors":"Pavleen Soni","doi":"10.1108/AJB-08-2020-0133","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/AJB-08-2020-0133","url":null,"abstract":"PurposeIn an era of burgeoning activity in online retail in India, the role of web-store design is paramount. Web-store design elements such as website functionality, brand assortment and product quality are expected to generate customer loyalty.Design/methodology/approachUsing data collected from 553 students from two universities in north India, the present study investigates the indirect effect of web-store dimensions (through website functionality, brand assortment and product quality) on online store loyalty via an enjoyment state (flow) and customer satisfaction. Serial mediation has been analysed through PROCESS macro developed by Hayes version 3.0. In addition to this, the moderating role of gender and purchase frequency has also been investigated.FindingsThe present study renders support to serial mediation between website functionality, flow, customer satisfaction and loyalty. However, the path between brand assortment and loyalty is more strongly mediated by customer satisfaction only. Males experience less flow as compared to females while handling brand assortment on websites. The three-way interaction between brand assortment, gender and purchase frequency is also statistically significant.Originality/valueThe study examines the manner in which online retailers can choose to build customer loyalty when they try to build retail image using web store functionality and /or product/brand assortments. The study offers insights to retailers about how and when to focus on hedonism versus customer satisfaction or both of them in conjunction to enhance customer loyalty. This study is important as it investigates the relationships in Indian scenario witnessing a high rate of growth in online retail which can tremendously affect these relationships.","PeriodicalId":44116,"journal":{"name":"American Journal of Business","volume":"20 1","pages":"20-34"},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2021-01-14","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"81055928","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-01-06DOI: 10.1108/ajb-02-2020-0025
Rexford Abaidoo
PurposeThis study examines dynamics of global and regional financial market efficiency; and how specific features of the market and other conditions influence variability in such efficiency.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs fixed effects statistical approach in its examination of how specific features of financial markets influence variability in its efficiency.FindingsThis study finds that individual IMF defined economic regions tend to exhibits significantly different financial market efficiency characteristics given specific market features and conditions. In regional level comparative analysis (e.g. Europe, Africa, Asia–Pacific etc.) this study finds that incidence of financial market uncertainty is the dominant condition with significant effect on financial market efficiency across all the IMF regions. In the global level analysis, empirical estimates presented suggest that financial market uncertainty, financial institutional depth and financial institutional efficiency tend to have significant positive influence on global financial market efficiency all things being equal. In the same analysis however, this study finds that financial market and financial institutional access growth has significant negative impact on financial market efficiency.Originality/valueThe uniqueness of this study compared to related ones found in the literature stems from its focus on financial market efficiency at the global, and IMF defined regional block level instead of on a specific economy as often found in the literature. Additionally, in contrast to other related studies, this study further examines the role of global financial market uncertainty in its financial market efficiency analysis. Financial market uncertainty variable may be unique to this study because the variable is derived through an econometric process from a base variable.
{"title":"Financial market efficiency: global and regional financial market perspective","authors":"Rexford Abaidoo","doi":"10.1108/ajb-02-2020-0025","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/ajb-02-2020-0025","url":null,"abstract":"PurposeThis study examines dynamics of global and regional financial market efficiency; and how specific features of the market and other conditions influence variability in such efficiency.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs fixed effects statistical approach in its examination of how specific features of financial markets influence variability in its efficiency.FindingsThis study finds that individual IMF defined economic regions tend to exhibits significantly different financial market efficiency characteristics given specific market features and conditions. In regional level comparative analysis (e.g. Europe, Africa, Asia–Pacific etc.) this study finds that incidence of financial market uncertainty is the dominant condition with significant effect on financial market efficiency across all the IMF regions. In the global level analysis, empirical estimates presented suggest that financial market uncertainty, financial institutional depth and financial institutional efficiency tend to have significant positive influence on global financial market efficiency all things being equal. In the same analysis however, this study finds that financial market and financial institutional access growth has significant negative impact on financial market efficiency.Originality/valueThe uniqueness of this study compared to related ones found in the literature stems from its focus on financial market efficiency at the global, and IMF defined regional block level instead of on a specific economy as often found in the literature. Additionally, in contrast to other related studies, this study further examines the role of global financial market uncertainty in its financial market efficiency analysis. Financial market uncertainty variable may be unique to this study because the variable is derived through an econometric process from a base variable.","PeriodicalId":44116,"journal":{"name":"American Journal of Business","volume":"25 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2021-01-06","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"91160574","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2021-01-05DOI: 10.1108/ajb-05-2020-0066
Hokey Min
PurposeDespite a growing interest in business analytics (BA) from the business and academic communities, it is still unknown what truly motivates and hinders the adoption of BA. To have a clear picture of what will lead to the successful implementation of BA, this paper identifies contextual variables (e.g. user characteristics, organizational readiness and technology infrastructure/expertise) that significantly influence the BA adoption decision.Design/methodology/approachThis paper conducted a series of classification, discriminant and logistics regressions analyses to analyze the differences in mail survey responses between adopters and nonadopters of BA and then determine what either motivate or inhibit the BA adoption.FindingsThrough a series of hypothesis testing, we discovered that large firms with a greater number of information technology (IT) staff and budget tended to adopt BA more than their smaller counterparts. Also, we found that BA skeptics, who did not fully recognize BA benefit potentials, were more concerned about BA implementation costs and experienced the greater organization resistance to BA adoption than the others did. Therefore, they were less likely to adopt BA.Originality/valueIn the era of knowledge-based economy, the firm's ability to derive actionable insights from big data can be a game changer. Such ability can be developed and nurtured by utilizing BA which is designed to help business executives and policymakers make well-thought and informed decisions. This paper is one of the first attempts to develop practical guidelines for the successful implementation of BA based on the exploratory study of BA practices among the Korean firms.
{"title":"Business analytics practices and managerial implications based on the evidence from Korea","authors":"Hokey Min","doi":"10.1108/ajb-05-2020-0066","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/ajb-05-2020-0066","url":null,"abstract":"PurposeDespite a growing interest in business analytics (BA) from the business and academic communities, it is still unknown what truly motivates and hinders the adoption of BA. To have a clear picture of what will lead to the successful implementation of BA, this paper identifies contextual variables (e.g. user characteristics, organizational readiness and technology infrastructure/expertise) that significantly influence the BA adoption decision.Design/methodology/approachThis paper conducted a series of classification, discriminant and logistics regressions analyses to analyze the differences in mail survey responses between adopters and nonadopters of BA and then determine what either motivate or inhibit the BA adoption.FindingsThrough a series of hypothesis testing, we discovered that large firms with a greater number of information technology (IT) staff and budget tended to adopt BA more than their smaller counterparts. Also, we found that BA skeptics, who did not fully recognize BA benefit potentials, were more concerned about BA implementation costs and experienced the greater organization resistance to BA adoption than the others did. Therefore, they were less likely to adopt BA.Originality/valueIn the era of knowledge-based economy, the firm's ability to derive actionable insights from big data can be a game changer. Such ability can be developed and nurtured by utilizing BA which is designed to help business executives and policymakers make well-thought and informed decisions. This paper is one of the first attempts to develop practical guidelines for the successful implementation of BA based on the exploratory study of BA practices among the Korean firms.","PeriodicalId":44116,"journal":{"name":"American Journal of Business","volume":"6 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2021-01-05","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"87769537","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2020-12-21DOI: 10.1108/ajb-08-2020-0134
M. Kumari, Nalin Bharti
PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop and test theory-driven hypothesis on trade costs’ effect of logistics performance (LP) and bureaucratic efficiency, primarily from SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) perspective.Design/methodology/approachThe paper develops hypothesis based on the review of the literature and theory linking LP, trade costs and institutions. The authors test the hypothesis using secondary data sources: World Bank-UNESCAP trade costs database, World Bank Logistics Performance Index (LPI) and Political Risk Service's Political Risk Rating. Fixed-effect approach is used to test the hypothesis.FindingsThe influential role of bureaucratic quality on relationship between LPI and South Asian trade costs (inter-SAARC and intra-SAARC) is evident. The results also point out that bureaucratic quality also conditions the effect of different dimensions of LPI on South Asian trade costs. Further, it is found that bureaucratic inefficiency mitigates the effects of LPI on South Asia's trade costs with its proximate trading partners APEC (Asia–Pacific Economic Cooperation) and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asia Nations).Research limitations/implicationsThe analysis is conducted using short span of data. With the availability of long span of data, the understanding of the relationship studies in this paper will improve.Practical implicationsThe results suggests policymakers to improve bureaucratic efficiency for utilizing the full potential effect of LPI in deceasing trade costs. The study inspires businesses to act and advocate in favor of reforms in governance system.Originality/valueThis paper is among the first, which investigates the possibility that the relationship between LPI and trade costs depends on the bureaucratic efficiency. It provides a more detailed description of the LPI-trade costs relationship.
{"title":"Does bureaucracy affect the outcome of logistics performance? Empirical evidence from South Asia","authors":"M. Kumari, Nalin Bharti","doi":"10.1108/ajb-08-2020-0134","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1108/ajb-08-2020-0134","url":null,"abstract":"PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop and test theory-driven hypothesis on trade costs’ effect of logistics performance (LP) and bureaucratic efficiency, primarily from SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) perspective.Design/methodology/approachThe paper develops hypothesis based on the review of the literature and theory linking LP, trade costs and institutions. The authors test the hypothesis using secondary data sources: World Bank-UNESCAP trade costs database, World Bank Logistics Performance Index (LPI) and Political Risk Service's Political Risk Rating. Fixed-effect approach is used to test the hypothesis.FindingsThe influential role of bureaucratic quality on relationship between LPI and South Asian trade costs (inter-SAARC and intra-SAARC) is evident. The results also point out that bureaucratic quality also conditions the effect of different dimensions of LPI on South Asian trade costs. Further, it is found that bureaucratic inefficiency mitigates the effects of LPI on South Asia's trade costs with its proximate trading partners APEC (Asia–Pacific Economic Cooperation) and ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asia Nations).Research limitations/implicationsThe analysis is conducted using short span of data. With the availability of long span of data, the understanding of the relationship studies in this paper will improve.Practical implicationsThe results suggests policymakers to improve bureaucratic efficiency for utilizing the full potential effect of LPI in deceasing trade costs. The study inspires businesses to act and advocate in favor of reforms in governance system.Originality/valueThis paper is among the first, which investigates the possibility that the relationship between LPI and trade costs depends on the bureaucratic efficiency. It provides a more detailed description of the LPI-trade costs relationship.","PeriodicalId":44116,"journal":{"name":"American Journal of Business","volume":"5 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.8,"publicationDate":"2020-12-21","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"88345162","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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