Forthcoming Articles

International Journal of Web Based Communities

International Journal of Web Based Communities (IJWBC)

Forthcoming articles have been peer-reviewed and accepted for publication but are pending final changes, are not yet published and may not appear here in their final order of publication until they are assigned to issues. Therefore, the content conforms to our standards but the presentation (e.g. typesetting and proof-reading) is not necessarily up to the Inderscience standard. Additionally, titles, authors, abstracts and keywords may change before publication. Articles will not be published until the final proofs are validated by their authors.

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International Journal of Web Based Communities (2 papers in press)

Regular Issues

  • The impact of TikTok short video on GenZs platform engagement: the case of an emerging economy   Order a copy of this article
    by Thanh-Binh Phung, Thi Diep Thuy Le, Doan Viet Phuong Nguyen 
    Abstract: The rise of the TikTok platform has recently attracted researchers attention. Nevertheless, it is recognised that there is a dearth of research that examines the effects of the TikTok short video characteristics from the perspectives of media credibility and uses and gratification theory. This study is conducted to investigate the effects of TikTok endorsers, platforms, and short content characteristics on the perceived value, trust, and engagement of customers. The study analyses a sample of 311 GenZ individuals who have experience in online shopping through the TikTok platform using the PLS-SEM method with SmartPLS 4.0. The results illustrated the beneficial effects of influencer endorsement, enjoyment, and convenience on customers perceived value and trust, which subsequently influence their engagement. Ultimately, the study discusses and suggests theoretical implications for future studies and practical implications for marketing practitioners to improve short video content, such as influencer endorsement, enjoyment, convenience, as well as customers perceived value and trust, in order to increase the engagement of GenZ customers. The recommendations include the wise selection of endorsers who possess the ability to produce high-quality content and the surveillance of customer activities to ascertain their expectations and ensure their satisfaction, trust, and engagement.
    Keywords: TikTok; endorser; perceived value; engagement; trust; GenZ.
    DOI: 10.1504/IJWBC.2025.10073231
     
  • Virtual empowerment: enhancing inclusivity and well-being for individuals with functional limitations in the metaverse   Order a copy of this article
    by Maria Kalyvaki, Kyle Nash, Heather Mcintosh 
    Abstract: This paper explores the transformative potential of the metaverse for individuals with disabilities and older adults, focusing on its ability to enhance social inclusion, cognitive development, and therapeutic interventions. The study reviews existing academic literature and incorporates qualitative insights from interviews with residents of Second Life, one of the earliest virtual worlds. The findings highlight the psychological benefits of using avatars to transcend physical and cognitive limitations, allowing users to engage in activities and social interactions that may be restricted in the physical world. The paper also discusses the challenges of accessibility, usability, and potential overuse in virtual environments, offering recommendations for creating more inclusive and supportive digital spaces for people with diverse needs.
    Keywords: metaverse; virtual reality; disabilities; elderly; second life; avatars; inclusivity.
    DOI: 10.1504/IJWBC.2025.10073561