International Journal of Business Excellence (213 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Marketing measurement: the traditional and the modern - way forward  
  by Piyush Pranjal, Soumya Sarkar 
  Abstract: Since the advent of the C-OAR-SE procedure for the development of measures in marketing, there has been a renewed interest in improving marketing measurement. For long, marketing academics have adhered to the traditional scale development approach. However, C-OAR-SE has brought freshness in the marketing measurement literature. It has highlighted loopholes in the time-tested traditional approach but, not without facing its fair share of criticism. This article briefly describes the traditional approach and the C-OAR-SE procedure followed by a brief review of selected papers focusing on debates elicited by the C-OAR-SE procedure. As the outcome of the review, a discussion is provided highlighting the key insights concerning generalisability; content and construct validity; use of single-item measures and predictive validity; and developing optimal standard measures in marketing. The discussion leads to the suggestion of a prospective course of action for developing measures in marketing with the objective of improving marketing measurement.
  Keywords: marketing measurement; C-OAR-SE; marketing science.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10025354
   
  
• INTERRELATIONSHIPS AMONG RETAIL CUSTOMER-BASED BRAND-EQUITY DIMENSIONS: A STUDY FROM INDONESIA  
  by Hotniar Siringoringo, Neltje F. Katuuk 
  Abstract: The objective of this study was to examine interrelationships among the dimensions of brand equity, using three validated models. A questionnaire was developed, tested for validity and reliability, and then distributed for data collection. Questionnaire was distributed to retailing consumers in Jakarta and neighbours area. In all, 411 valid questionnaires were collected out of 500 distributed, and obtained a response rate of 82.2%. The results show that perceived quality (PQ), brand awareness (BA) and brand trust (BT) affect switching behaviour (SB) significantly and directly. SB, in turn, influences brand loyalty (BL) significantly and directly. Thus, the effects of PQ, BA, and BT on BL are mediated by SB. Further, evidence was also found for the direct and significant effects of PQ, BA, and BT on BL, as well as for a direct and significant effect of BA on PQ and BT. Finally, BL affects SB significantly and directly.
  Keywords: brand equity; brand loyalty; brand trust; brand awareness; perceived quality; switching behaviour; retailing.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10025380
   
  
• Adapting Appreciative Inquiry for Agile Higher Education Institute  
  by Nikhil K. Mehta, Karuna Jain 
  Abstract: With increasing global and competitive pressure, Indian higher education institutions need to take initiatives to revamp themselves into organisations that have performance-oriented work and an agile culture. This study presents how one of the higher education institutes in India has initiated its journey towards agility. The appreciative inquiry was undertaken to initiate its journey of being agile. The study uses grounded theory to explore positive core life-giving strengths and skits performed to identify dreams of the faculty members. Underlining principles of projective test skits were analysed to set the norms for organisational agility. The study presents how members of the organisation have aligned themselves in the endeavours of value capture, value creation and value protection to deliver their performance on various fronts such as academic and research excellence, quality assurance of processes, capacity building, infrastructure, and global reachability and collaboration. The study holds immense social and practical implications.
  Keywords: Appreciative Inquiry; Agility; Higher Education; Achievement Motivation; Performance.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10025391
   
  
• A HYBRID MCDM APPROACH FOR EVALUATING THE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF PUBLIC SECTOR BANKS IN INDIA  
  by SANJAY GUPTA, MANOJ MATHEW, GINNI SYAL, JINESH JAIN 
  Abstract: Sustainability and development of banking system results in stable and efficient economic performance of the country. Accurate utilisation of financial resources aids in maintaining a smooth flow of finances across the countries. Therefore, it becomes mandatory to measure the financial performance of the banks under public sector in order to ensure transparent working and flow of money within as well as across the countries. In this study, it has been aimed to evaluate the financial performance of public sector undertaking (PSU) banks, forming part of PSU bank nifty index, those who operate in the Indian capital market between the years 2013 and 2014 and 2017 to 2018.
  Keywords: Financial Performance; CRITIC-TOPSIS; MCDM; PSU Banks.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10025809
   
  
• Cultivating society’s environmental concern through green advertising: an empirical analysis among Jaipur citizens  
  by Jugal Kishor 
  Abstract: The current study examines the society's response toward green advertising through measuring its impact on customers' intent to act for a specific brand associated with environmental concern. The contemporary research enriches the understanding of green advertising and the role of green advertising in the development of consumers' various intent toward environmental fortification. A total of 517 dataset incorporated to examine the consumers' response toward green advertising on the ground of various variable. The hypothesised model delivers the excellent fit of the dataset and results depict that consumer shared the positive intentions toward the green advertising based on the brand image, environment concern, purchase intention, claims credibility and customer relation. This research assignment verifies the role of green advertising as its effect on the consumer in educating the green concerns of the environment.
  Keywords: Green Advertising; Purchase Intention; Environmental Concern; Brand Image.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10025826
   
  
• How Can Green Marketing Lead to Customer Trust and Green Intention? Evidences from Automobile Industry  
  by Majid Mohammad Shafiee, Arash Shahin 
  Abstract: Today, the environment and its protection have become critically important for business excellence. Since automobile companies can have a significant impact on the improvement of energy consumption and environmental protection, the aim of this study is to evaluate green marketing in the automobile industry and its impact on customer trust. For this purpose, a questionnaire has been developed and used for data collection. The variables of green marketing included price, product, promotion, and place and the variables of customer trust included competency, benevolence, and honesty. Findings indicated a positive and significant influence of green marketing on customer trust and green purchase intention. Among the elements of marketing mix, price had the strongest influence on customer trust and green purchase intention; and among the customer trust variables, honesty had the strongest influence on customer green purchase intention.
  Keywords: Costumer trust; Green marketing; Green Purchase intention; Green consumer; Environmental effect; Automobile industry.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10025827
   
  
• Destination Brand Personality and Brand Experience in the Tourism Management of a Mid-Sized City  
  by Paula Rodrigues, Ana Pinto Borges, Elvira Vieira 
  Abstract: Increasing the attractiveness of mid-sized cities is a cross-cutting challenge within the context of the European Union, and specifically for Portugal. In this sense, we evaluate the mediating effect of brand experience between the brand personality and brand attitude applied to the city of Guimar
  Keywords: Brand Experience; Destination Brand Personality; Brand Attitude; City Branding; Consumer Behavior; Tourism Management.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10026170
   
  
• Repatriation of academics: Re-socialization and adjustment  
  by Robinson James, Theophilus Azungah 
  Abstract: Despite a large and growing body of literature that has investigated the return of corporate repatriates, the repatriation of academics has not been sufficiently discussed in the literature. The literature on repatriation of corporate employees has identified several antecedent conditions that facilitate or hamper the process of repatriation adjustment and its implications for corporate organisations and repatriates. But, it is not clear whether the antecedents and consequences of repatriation adjustment are the same for both corporate and academic repatriates. This study applies the extant literature on repatriation and three socialisation theories: organisational socialisation theory (OST), socialisation resources theory (SRT), and uncertainty reduction theory (URT) to identify and examine the role of organisation, individual and group in the process of adjustment and the influence of adjustment on repatriates' work engagement and retention. We particularly identified and discussed the repatriation adjustment of academic repatriates, consequences of unsuccessful adjustment and how universities and repatriates can effectively manage the repatriation transition.
  Keywords: repatriates repatriation adjustment socialization theory academics.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10026225
   
  
• Achieving business excellence through workplace conflict resolution: using Emotional Intelligence (EI) as an effective tool  
  by Mohit Kumar, Kuldeep Singh, Vijaishri Tewari, Madhvendra Misra 
  Abstract: The purpose of the present study is to gain a conceptual understanding of the role of emotions and emotional intelligence in conflict formation and resolution at the workplace. Organisational environment is such a place where individuals are jointly performing tasks and achieve organisational and personal goals. Many times it has found in situations where individuals arise from conflicts, even working with shared objectives. Individuals own attitude, values, beliefs, and behaviour guided by emotions may become the reasons for conflicts to take place. Workers with a high or low level of emotional intelligence (EI) deal with conflicts accordingly. The present study, with theoretical understanding and findings, would explore the extent of the relationship between EI and conflicts in an organisational setup and achieving overall business excellence.
  Keywords: Business excellence; Emotions; Emotional Intelligence (EI); Conflict resolution.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10026226
   
  
• Determinants Affecting Customer Perceived E-Service Quality (PeSQ) Towards E-Retailing Shopping Site in Malaysia  
  by Mohammed Hariri Bakri, Nor Azah Abdul Aziz, Nurul Fadly Habidin, N.O.R. RATNA MASROM, L.I.M. P.E.I. SIAN 
  Abstract: In the new era of digital nowadays, e-commerce platform has been growth rapidly. Thus, this research aimed to study the determinants that affecting customer perceived e-service quality (PeSQ) towards e-retailing shopping site in Malaysia and examine the most significant determinants of e-service quality towards customer PeSQ from e-retailing shopping site in Malaysia . In order to study this, the researcher has selected 384 respondents as sample framework with google form questionnaire distributed online. From finding analysis, the researcher used SPSS software with explanatory factor analysis test of the data and it depicts that there is exactly five factors have been extracted in the research and use multiple regression test to find the most significant factor and results shows that privacy as the most significant predictor but reliability are not significant in the research
  Keywords: E-Retailing; E Service Quality; Customer Perception; Shopping Site; Malaysia.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10026392
   
  
• Development of a multi-item scale for measuring Blue Ocean leadership  
  by Wael Mohamad Subhi Idris, Taher Mohsin Mansoor Al-Galibi, Mohammed Hussein Manhal Al-Eesa, Zaina Mustafa Mahmoud Hamad 
  Abstract: This study aims to develop and validate a scale to measure Blue Ocean leadership within five-star hotels in Jordan. A quantitative approach through a questionnaire-based survey of all the employees working within five-star hotels in Amman is used. A sample of 207 employees within the three administrative levels in hotels under study is selected. A structural equation modelling is conducted through both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses to assess construct validity and reliability. Findings confirm validity and reliability of the developed scale consisting of four Blue Ocean leadership dimensions. This paper develops a multi-item measurement instrument for current multi-dimensional construct, and offers professionals and practitioners at all management levels a valid and reliable tool for evaluating and implementing this construct within their organisations, which will affect positively all stakeholders and allow organisations to achieve higher performance and manage organisational change with less effort and time.
  Keywords: Blue Ocean leadership; multi-item measurement scale; scale development; structural equation modelling; exploratory factor analysis;confirmatory analysis; hospitality industry; five-star hotels; Jordan.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10027312
   
  
• LINKING UNLEARNING WITH LEARNING FOR PERFORMANCE IN AN ERA OF DISRUPTION  
  by Meeta Dasgupta 
  Abstract: In a knowledge-based economy, it is an accepted fact that learning and innovation are important ingredients for global competitiveness. It is also true that old assumptions, beliefs, and routines need to be unlearnt and replaced. Given the exponential rate of disruption, should unlearning be valued more than learning? Insights from interviews with senior executives, from companies operating in India, have been integrated with literature. The proposed framework explores the interplay between learning and intentional and spontaneous unlearning. The study reveals that even during times of disruption learning continues to be the focus of most organisations. But the magnitude of disruption and time span within which individuals and organisations want to witness change influences the choice between intentional and spontaneous unlearning.
  Keywords: learning; unlearning ; spontaneous unlearning; intentional unlearning; disruption;organisational performance.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10027355
   
  
• Do Alliance Capabilities Matter in Tourism Dynamic Capabilities Development? An Examination through Agility and Resilience Lens  
  by Santanu Mandal, Shri Vishnu, Maria Roshini 
  Abstract: While existing studies on tourism have undersigned various resources and capabilities instrumental in developing tourism supply chain (SC) agility (TAGL) and resilience (TREL), the importance of alliance capabilities are yet to be addressed. Sensing this gap, our study classified alliance capabilities as alliance management, learning and integrating capabilities and explored their role in TAGL and TREL development. Perceptual responses were collected from 122 hotel and tour managers and are analysed using structural equation modelling. Results suggest alliance management and learning as prominent enablers for TAGL. Also, they suggested alliance learning and integration as key enablers for TREL. Furthermore, the results suggested alliance learning capability as a key enabler for alliance management and integration capabilities. Implications for theory and managers were also provided. The study is the foremost to address the importance of alliance capabilities in the development of tourism SC agility and resilience.
  Keywords: alliance; capability; tourism; services; supply chain; technology.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10027359
   
  
• Manufacturing enterprise performance using Network DEA: A profitability and marketability framework  
  by Syarifa Hanoum 
  Abstract: Despite providing a holistic view of a company's progress, existing performance measurement system (PMS) models report performance separately for every single measure and leaves the overall performance of the corporate untouched. The concept of vertical and horizontal alignment has been described theoretically in PMS literature. However, the existing PMSs do not provide a mechanism for how to link each organisational level in a PMS. This study aims to promote the use of network data envelopment analysis (NDEA) for measuring manufacturing enterprises' performance. NDEA can deliver a single composite index, derived from multidimensional measures, which can represent the overall manufacturing performance. An alignment concept as a prerequisite of an integrated PMS is explained using the NDEA technical properties. The proposed NDEA-based PMS is tested in a pharmaceutical company to illustrate how it works in evaluating profitability and marketability. We modify an existing profitability and marketability framework into a three-stage model: production acquisition, profit earning, and marketability, to capture the complexity in manufacturing operations. The proposed NDEA-based PMS is useful for conducting a performance review to seek the sources of inefficiency and determine improvement target.
  Keywords: Performance measurement; Network data envelopment analysis; NDEA; Manufacturing; Profitability; Marketability.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10027362
   
  
• Dynamic Capabilities in public sector: Theoretical insights and research agenda  
  by Ruben Loureiro, João José Matos Ferreira, Jorge Simões 
  Abstract: The theme of Dynamic Capabilities (DC), although it has recently demonstrated a growing interest on the part of the academy, in the scope of the public sector its applicability is still incipient. Thus, this study aims to identify, through a systematic review of the literature, the CDS in the context of public sector organizations and contribute to a broader and more systematic knowledge in this field. A survey was conducted in the Web of Science (WoS) and SCOPUS, and 82 documents were obtained dated between 1997 and 2018. The results point to three large dimensions around the CD in the public sector, which are: i) Innovation and Entrepreneurship; ii) Intellectual capital and knowledge and learning management; and iii) Supply Chain and Information Technology.
  Keywords: Dynamic Capabilities; public sector; Innovation; Entrepreneurship; Intellectual capital; Supply Chain; Information Technology; knowledge; learning management.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10027607
   
  
• A Meta-Analysis of Research on Entrepreneur Inclination in Small and Medium Enterprises In Global Scenario  
  by Divya Pathak, J.P. Sharma, Susmita Patnaik 
  Abstract: The purpose of this study is to provide a meta analysis of the research on entrepreneurship in small business with special focus to Entrepreneurial inclination from 2000 to 2018. Using the Scopus database, this study analyses a total of 1,393 papers published from the year 2000 to 2018. The information about these papers is provided on the basis of significant journals, publication years, maximum cited papers, important authors, and most prolific countries and institutions. Then, the co-authorship network map, inter-country co-authorship network map and keyword co-occurrences network maps are provided by using the VOSviewer software. The results of this study indicate that in the year 2017, the maximum papers have been published, the most significant journal is International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Small Business and the most cited paper is about competing models of entrepreneurial intentions. Furthermore, the most prominent author is Francisco Linan, and the most prolific country and institution are USA and the University of Seville, respectively.
  Keywords: Entrepreneurial Intentions; Bibliometric Analysis; VOSviewer; Review.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10027737
   
  
• Integration of Kansei Engineering and Conjoint Analysis to Product Design  
  by Elia Oey, Steven Yeremia Wibowo, Novita Novita, Christopher Stanley Soputro 
  Abstract: Continuous product development is critical for every company. For that reason, understanding what consumer wants and willing to buy is a constant endeavour for every company. The study was a case study of a synthetic rattan furniture manufacturer in Indonesia, exploring new design for its sofa product. The study used combination of Kansei engineering and conjoint analysis to propose new sofa design. Kansei engineering was done with affinity diagram workshop and principal component analysis addressing visualised consumer preferences' attribute. From the Kansei engineering a new sofa model was proposed stressing consumer preference on 'minimalist', 'bulky' and 'calm' features. Afterwards, the study was enriched with conjoint analysis addressing non-visualised aspects of consumer preferences and concluded that 'price', 'warranty' are the two most important attributes. From the conjoint models, the studied company can estimate the overall utility value based on different level of 'price', 'warranty period', 'rattan type', 'fabric type', 'foam type'.
  Keywords: Kansei; Conjoint; Customer Preference; Product Development.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10028377
   
  
• Deriving hierarchy of measures of green advertising using AHP analysis for a sustainable environment  
  by Jugal Kishor 
  Abstract: This research demonstrates that specified elements of green advertisement viz green brand name, green description, green visuals, and green logos communicate the benefits of a product/service to the society for sustainable development of the environment. Specifically, this research has covered the fraction of weights of a particular element of green advertisement that makes an advertisement more environmentally friendly and active over other elements using AHP analysis. This study examines whether the green brand name, green description, green visuals, and green logos which among is more effective and constructive at creating a green advertisement impressive to engage society to envisage over environment fortification. Subsequently, green description observed to be preferred measure among four measures of green advertisement which considered the best element to make an advertisement more productive and constructive to put society in a thought process to save the environment for future.
  Keywords: green advertising; green brand name; green description; green visual; green logo; sustainable environment.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10028467
   
  
• Application of AHP-TOPSIS for Knowledge Evaluation of Ship Operators  
  by Hristos Karahalios 
  Abstract: The purpose of this study is to provide a formal evaluation tool of individuals that operate ships. These persons monitor daily shipboard operations, and their knowledge is of particular importance in terms of rational commercial decision making and providing guidance to the masters of the ships that are in charge. Poor decisions may have a severe impact on the commercial status of a ship, safety of its crew or marine environment. The proposed methodology could be used by ship managers to measure the knowledge standards and ensure their professional continuity of their operators. The research methodology used in this paper combines Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and TOPSIS to establish a knowledge measurement tool based on a system of key knowledge indicators (KKIs). Experts participated in evaluating the KKIs. Furthermore, a survey to ship management companies was carried out to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed methodology.
  Keywords: Ship Operations Knowledge application Knowledge evaluation.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10028489
   
  
• Prospects of Mobile Payments in Northern India: Customer Segmentation and Profiling  
  by Upendra Nath Shukla  
  Abstract: As per the report of “Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)” Subscriber base for smart phone users was 1206.22 million out of which 1183.41 million were wireless subscribers, recorded an increase of 13.23 million, the end of March 2018. Indians have increased use of mobile phones for making cashless payments, leading to a great market opportunity for mobile payments. To grab this opportunity, companies need to map different attributes of mobile payments to right customer clusters. Data is collected from mobile payment users in north India. Findings revealed that there are three distinct customer clusters. First cluster consists of young innovative customers up to 35 years, looking for convenience and compatibility, second cluster belongs to persuasive customers and third one belongs to conservative customers. Due to young demographic dividend and digital India move, India would immerge as the most conducive market for mobile payments.
  Keywords: Mobile payments; Segmentation; Customer-profile; Market; India; Cashless payment; M-wallets and Fintech.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10028528
   
  
• The Impact of Social support on Culture Shock: The Contingent Role of Gender  
  by Feba Thomas, Sumathi G.N 
  Abstract: Purpose: The main purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between social support and culture shock and to examine the moderating effect of gender between social support and culture shock that the international students face. Design/Methodology/Approach: Data is been collected using an online survey of questionnaire, it was send to the Indian students studying abroad and a questionnaire was given to the foreign students studying in India. The sample size consists of 148(male=75, female=73) international students. Culture shock was measured using Acculturative scale for international students (ASSIS) and Social support is been measured using Perceived social support scale. Findings: The findings from this study indicate that social support received from their families and friends will reduce the culture shock that the International students face and there is a significant association when gender is been moderated between social support and culture shock.
  Keywords: Social support; Gender; Culture shock; Indian Students; International Students.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10028536
   
  
• Influence of Internal Audit Functions on Enterprise Risk Management: Evidence from Malaysian Transportation Industry  
  by Suaad Jassem 
  Abstract: The purpose of this study is to investigate the influences of the roles of internal audit functions on enterprise risk management. A survey has been conducted on internal auditors’ units in the Malaysian transportation industry to meet the objectives of this study. This study examines roles of internal auditors as defined by the Institute of Internal auditors Position Paper 2009 on the components of enterprise risk management defined by the updated enterprise risk management Framework 2017 declared by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. It also examines if having a dedicated Chief Risk Officer has any significant influence on either enterprise risk management or internal auditors’ roles in enterprise risk management. The results suggest that internal auditors perform 70% of their core roles in enterprise risk management and 65% of legitimate roles, while they are also performing about 50% of prohibitive roles in enterprise risk management.
  Keywords: enterprise risk management; ERM; Internal audit function; chief risk officer; COSO Framework; IIA Position Paper.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10028540
   
  
• Determinants behaviour analysis of demand for passengers to the Portuguese air travel leisure market: Application with Partial Least Squares Regression (PLS)  
  by José Manuel Vicente, Andreia Dionísio, Felipa Lopes Dos Reis 
  Abstract: This paper aims to determining the behaviour analysis of the demand for passengers to the Portuguese air travel leisure market (between Lisbon and Oporto and the Azores and Madeira), between 2010 and 2014, using an application of Partial Least Squares regression (PLSR). The PLS regression analysis used in the essay was developed by Wold [71] to allow the modelling of complex data sets in terms of matrices chains (Tenenhaus et al. [62]). The results of our empirical analysis suggest that the demand for air transport of passengers between Portugal and the Azores and Madeira is more affected by factors of destination attraction’s (leisure and events, sun and beach), by aviation industry factors (airfare and presence of LCC's on routes) and geographical variable (distance).The results were promising and provide important information to improve business decision making, with regard to the operation of business level policies.
  Keywords: partial least squares regression;panel data; modelling; air transport; Portugal.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10028546
   
  
• Incorporating Organisational Citizenship Behaviours into Business Process Reengineering: A Theoretical Model  
  by Shih Yung Chou, Katelin Barron, Charles Ramser, Joseph A. Smalley 
  Abstract: Due to increased competition, organisations have long been recognising the impact of business process reengineering (BPR) on organisational performance. Existing research in BPR, however, has predominantly focused on the use of formal organisational processes and systems to enhance organisational performance. Such a focus may fall short of explaining the effect of employee discretionary behaviours on BPR. Thus, the primary purpose of this article is to discuss how organisational citizenship behaviours (OCBs) help facilitate BPR. Using the eight-stage BPR proposed by prior research, this article further proposes that each of the OCB dimensions serves as a unique critical success factor in facilitating each of the eight stages of BPR. From a theoretical standpoint, this article provides a theoretical framework for future research attempting to understand why certain BPR efforts are successful while others fail. Practically, this article provides managers with recommendations for improving BPR through employee OCBs.
  Keywords: Business process reengineering; organisational citizenship behaviours; business process; organisational performance.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10028601
   
  
• Dynamics of lifestyle psycho-demographic parameters in food and grocery retail outlets  
  by A. Anuradha 
  Abstract: The changing dynamics in the retail scenario with the online retailers considering options to encounter the market with more of physical stores in major cities i.e., online-to-offline (o2o) has become the tactical strategy which is predicted to attract more customers. On the other hand the changing lifestyle pattern of the customers has made the customers look beyond the traditional retail stores towards the modern retail format stores which has better lighting, air conditioning, store layout, aisle placement etc., for their purchase. This study discusses about the dynamics of lifestyle parameters of activities, interests and expectations of the people in influencing their purchase intentions by drafting a questionnaire to collect the relevant data to give the outcome. Activities and interests of the customers with their expectations towards the store attributes found to influence the purchase decisions of the customers.
  Keywords: Store attributes; Store atmospherics; willingness to buy; psycho-demographic parameters; customer satisfaction.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10028629
   
  
• Assessing the Impact of Brand Equity and Customer Experience on Brand Loyalty in the United Arab Emirates’ Hotel Industry  
  by Mohammed Nuseir 
  Abstract: Contributing to the existing literature regarding the hotel industry of the United Arab Emirates, this research study aimed to assess the impact of brand equity and the quality of customer experience on brand loyalty. In particular, the study examined the relationship between brand equity and the quality of customers’ experiences with some of the prominent players in the hotel industry of the United Arab Emirates. The sample for the study included a total of 694 participants. Five hotel chains were included in the data collection: Atlantis, The Palm; Movenpick Hotel; Sheraton Hotel; Crowne Plaza Hotel; and Hotel Ibis. Study findings revealed a significant impact of the brand equity and customer experience on the development of brand loyalty among consumers.
  Keywords: brand equity; brand loyalty; customer experience; hotel industry; increasing business competition; United Arab Emirates.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10028630
   
  
• Impact of leadership on decision-making in start-up enterprises: Qualitative perspectives to organisational performance  
  by Ananya Rajagopal, Fernando Moya 
  Abstract: This study focuses on analyzing decision-making process of entrepreneurial leaders to determine organisational performance in SUEs. Decision-making process of entrepreneurial leaders in reference to internal and external organizational performance, leadership patterns, work culture, and market competitiveness of SUEs have been critically examined in the study. This study has been conducted using qualitative research method, by applying in-depth interviews to the entrepreneurial leaders of 32 start-up enterprises within metropolitan area of Mexico City. Content analysis was done to summarize the open-ended questions using software NVivo version 11. The study revealed that collective decision-making is a good approach as compared to a leader-driven top-down decision-making practice. Most SUEs have individualistic decision-making process, which is largely power centered, that creates distance within inter- and intra-organisational players. This study contributes to the existing literature by analyzing the impact of leadership patterns on decision-making for achieving organizational performance in the region.
  Keywords: Decision-making; Leadership; Organisational performance; Start-up enterprises.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10028634
   
  
• Optimal portfolio using volatility anomaly concept and Sharpe optimization technique  
  by PRADIP KUMAR MITRA, Edward Mascarenhas 
  Abstract: Risk aversion is the basic nature of any investor so avoidance of any risky instruments in their investment portfolios becomes inevitable. Equity, the riskiest instrument is normally not preferred by the risk-averse investors. An optimal portfolio with low volatile stocks with a better return than a portfolio with more risky stocks can bring a solution to risk-averse investors. The paper attempts to derive an optimal portfolio using Sharpe’s optimisation process with a sample of 30 stocks listed in the BSE low volatility index developed on the theme of volatility anomaly. The paper finds 7 such stocks which can be considered for creating a low-risk portfolio out of the 28 stocks with the higher excess return to beta ratio and also derives the allocation of investment. Results suggest that even with lower risk the portfolio could outperform the riskier benchmarking index.
  Keywords: Risk-averse; Risk-aversion; Optimal Portfolio; Volatility Anomaly; Sharpe’s Optimisation model; BSE Low Volatility Index; Risk-Return Tradeoff; Sharpe single index model; Excess return to Beta.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10028882
   
  
• A Study on Modern Teaching Pedagogy With Special Reference to Outcome Based Education System  
  by Sachin Kumar Srivastava, Khushboo Agnihotri 
  Abstract: Indian education system is now changing drastically. Innovative teaching pedagogy has been introduced in some of the educational institutions/ universities. New teaching pedagogy is based on out-come based education system. This totally depends on vision, mission, and objective of the university/institution. Universities define a vision, mission, and objective for the courses/ programmes run by them. Subsequently they defines broad based goals, programmes learning outcomes, then students learning outcomes, and finally use assessment tools to judge the outcome of the learning through students assessment procedure. This paper discusses the new teaching pedagogy in the higher education of the country and also tries to compare the traditional teaching pedagogy with the innovative education system of India.
  Keywords: Teaching Pedagogy; PLOs; BBGs; SLOs; Outcome based teaching.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10028903
   
  
• Organisational culture and Millennials Intention to Stay: Mediating Role of Leadership Management Practices  
  by Md Asadul Islam, Amer Hamzah, Haslinda Hashim, CHOO W.E.I. CHONG 
  Abstract: This study aims to examine the mediating role of leadership practices of managers in relation to organisational culture (supportive and innovative) and intention to stay. The study utilised the quantitative methodology for which a structured questionnaire was developed to collect data from 300 millennial employees working in the RMG industry, Bangladesh. Collected data were analysed using the partial least squares structural equation modelling. Analysis of the study reveal that leadership practices of managers and organisational supportive culture have a significant impact on intention to stay of millennials whilst the organisational innovative culture does not have a significant impact on the intention to stay. Furthermore, the results show that organisational culture has a significant impact on the organisational leadership practices of managers. The study also finds the mediating role of leadership practices of managers in relation to organisational culture and intention to stay. Implications, limitations and future research directions are discussed.
  Keywords: Leadership Practices of Managers; Organisational Culture; Intention to Stay; Millennials; RMG; Bangladesh.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10028922
   
  
• Refusing to Forgive is Your Own Loss: Relationship between Forgiveness and Employee Happiness  
  by Rinki Dahiya 
  Abstract: The objective of the present study is to examine the association between forgiveness at work and employee happiness along with the moderating influence of gender. The cross- sectional survey was administered on a sample of 357 employees working in the Indian organisations (North India) and analysed with hierarchical regression analysis. Results showed that forgiveness at work is positively associated with employee happiness. Further, findings highlighted that female gender moderates the association between forgiveness and happiness in comparison to the male gender. These findings make a theoretical contribution to the literature of workplace forgiveness, happiness at work (HAW) and suggest useful managerial implications for boosting and nurturing employee well- being.
  Keywords: Forgiveness at work; gender; positive organisational behavior; employee happiness; employee well-being.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10028925
   
  
• Sustainable implementation drivers and barriers of lean-agile manufacturing in original equipment manufacturers: A literature review study  
  by Vidyadhar Gedam, Parthiban Srinivas, Balkrishna Narkhede, Vaibhav Narwane, Ashwini Gotmare 
  Abstract: The purpose of this research article is to determine the drivers and barriers faced by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) during the sustainable implementation of lean-agile manufacturing. A set of keywords were identified, and the 50 papers from reputed journals were reviewed and classified into two sections, i.e., theoretical and empirical work. The selected criteria for the paper analysis were article name, article year, country, journal, and keywords. The main contribution and findings of this article, 165 drivers and barriers to sustainable implementation of the lean-agile system in OEMs, were identified. The drivers and barriers that appeared most regularly were management related issues, human resources management problems, inadequate technology and innovation, and financial constraints. The last section of this paper comprised, a suggestion which displays the 165 identified drivers and barriers, which classified into 14 broad categories such as management, employee, technology, organisation, infrastructure, finance, government support and policies, stakeholders, behavioural, sustainability, strategy, standard/systems and general. This can help the academicians and practitioners to make the decisions for their research and business practices by applying qualitative and quantitative methods.
  Keywords: Lean-Agile; drivers; critical success factors; challenges; barriers; sustainable; OEM.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10028926
   
  
• On building up a closer psychic distance as a fundamental ground of relationship between India and Korea: Focusing on Jeonlanam-Do in Korea  
  by Daniel Hyunchae Park, Namitha K. Cheriyan, Guydeuk Yeon 
  Abstract: The Uppsala model (Johanson and Wiedersheim-Paul, 1975) identifies cultural differences, market attractiveness, and core competence of nations or firms as the key factors affecting international market selection. Among these three factors, psychic distance caused by cultural differences is regarded as the most important factor. However, the psychic distance between India and Korea is not very close. The main objective of this paper is to examine the ways to boost economic relationships between India and Korea by building up a closer relationship of psychic distance. We suggest Jeonlanam-Do including Gwangju Metropolitan city (JDGC) in Korea as a stepping stone to make both countries’ psychic distance closer as JD has several common grounds of intangible assets with India which includes its adherence to democracy, human rights and peace; the diverse food culture; and the religious zeal to Buddhism.
  Keywords: Psychic distance; India; Korea; Jeonlanam-Do; IMS; Uppsala model.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10028927
   
  
• Servant Leadership for The Retention of Millennial Employees in Private Sectors: Mediating Role of Job Satisfaction  
  by M.D. MAHAMUDUL HASSAN, Manimekalai Jambulingam, Elangkovan A./.L. Narayan, Mohammad Nurul Alam, M.D. Shamirul Islam 
  Abstract: The purpose of the study was to find out the effects of Servant Leadership on Millennial employee retention in private sectors to combat the massive losses due to Generation Y turnover. All the stakeholders desire to have a lesser turnover to avoid losses, brain drain, and keep constant productivity. Millennial employees differ from their predecessors in terms of job-hopping. Although the enormous studies have been carried out in the western context, the problem of frequent millennial turnover remains unresolved. Moreover, study on impacts of servant leadership over Millennial retention are perceived to be missing in non-western context. In this quantitative study, SMART PLS was employed for analysis. The result reveals that servant leadership got a significant positive relationship in millennial employees’ retention. The mediating role of job satisfaction also found to be significant in this relationship. Finally, the study found to have implications for all stakeholders and future researchers.
  Keywords: Leadership; Generation Y; Millennial; Employee retention; Turnover; Job Satisfaction; Management; HRM; Servant Leadership Theory.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10028928
   
  
• Impact of Hotel Attributes, Service Quality and Brand Image on Customer Satisfaction Among Diners at a Fine Dine Restaurant- Evidences from India  
  by Mahesh Prabhu H, Hithesh Rai 
  Abstract: Hotel industry is contributing in a positive manner to the growth of the nation. With good opportunities in the field to earn profits, more players are emerging in the market. Satisfying the customers is the key in making them revisit the restaurant and earn profits. This research intends to identify and test the impact of factors that lead to customer satisfaction in the hotel industry. Hotel attributes, service quality and brand image are identified as important factors and their effect on customer satisfaction among restaurant diners is explored. Questionnaire survey method was used for data collection from residents of a cosmopolitan town in India. Structural Equation Modelling was used to analyse the data collected. Results indicate that the hotel attributes and service quality have a positive influence on customer satisfaction. Further analysis revealed that brand image partially mediates the relation between service quality and customer satisfaction.
  Keywords: Hotel Attributes; Service Quality; Brand Image; Customer Satisfaction; Fine Dine Restaurant; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10028943
   
  
• AN INTEGRATED DEMATEL-ANP-AHP APPROACH FOR MANAGING LOGISTICS PERFORMANCE IN MULTIPLE-ROLE COMPANIES  
  by Dian Prama Irfani, Dermawan Wibisono, Mursyid Hasan Basri 
  Abstract: The aim of this paper is to propose an integrated Performance Management System (PMS) framework for balancing the performance of the logistics system in multiple-role companies. The framework is developed by combining the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory Model (DEMATEL), Analytic Network Process (ANP), and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The integrated framework offers decision-makers ways to identify relationships among conflicting indicators and their drivers, in turn helping them to understand holistic logistics performance, objectively analyze why logistics systems perform in a certain way and foster a common shared view. The value of this study is that it provides multiple-role companies with a direction for measuring and improving the financial and social performances. This paper fills the theoretical gap by proposing a new PMS model based on DEMATEL-AHP-ANP model to illuminate how interconnecting components of sea transportation systems affect transport logistics performance.
  Keywords: Performance management system; DEMATEL; AHP; ANP; multiple roles; logistics.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10028944
   
  
• Structured management practices and the improvement of business outcomes. The case of Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, and Uruguay  
  by John Miles Touya, Natalia Mandirola, Gina Pipoli, Carmen Padilla Lozano 
  Abstract: The role of management practices for the company's success has been highlighted by academics. But most evidence, especially in developing countries, has been anecdotal or based on case studies. This study explores the impact of structured management practices on company outcomes in Latin American. Senior executives across 159 Argentine, Ecuadorian, Peruvian and Uruguayan companies where interviewed. Data was collected on the implementation of structured management practices and business outcomes. Evidence suggests that, regardless of the country, companys and executives characteristics, the structured management practices related to continuous improvement and innovation are those that have the greatest impact on improving companys key outcomes, particularly revenues, profitability, and growth. This paper makes a significant contribution to the management as a technology approach by incorporating evidence obtained from Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, and Uruguay. Will benefit Latin American policymakers by suggesting which management practice should be promoted to increase the productivity of firms.
  Keywords: Management Practices; business outcomes; Argentina; Ecuador; Perú; Uruguay.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10028951
   
  
• Differences in stock price drivers in case of global manufacturing and servicing companies  
  by Andras Takacs 
  Abstract: This study investigates how net asset value per share (size), discounted earnings per share (profit-generating potential), and brand value per share (market acceptance) affect stock prices in case of global manufacturing and non-manufacturing companies. Eight regression models are designed and tested on a database of 132 company years in order to discover potential differences in investor reactions. Test results indicate that the relevance of financial indicators (size and profitability) on the stock price as well as investor reaction times vary for manufacturing and non-manufacturing firms. However, brand value per share, as an indicator of market acceptance, is a significant predictor of the share price for both company types with a relatively short reaction time by investors. These empirical findings may be useful for managers to find out which dimensions of performance should be managed in order to improve the market capitalisation of the firm.
  Keywords: financial indicators; net asset value; discounted earnings; brand value; explanatory power; manufacturing companies; non-manufacturing companies.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10029095
   
  
• Perceptions of accounting quality in the new IFRS framework: an empirical study  
  by HIMANSHU -, Jatinder P. Singh 
  Abstract: A clearly perceptible paradigm shift from historical cost to fair value accounting is envisaged in the newly introduced accounting reforms across the globe The impact of this transition on accounting quality is, hitherto, largely unexplored The purpose of the paper is to evaluate various aspects of accounting quality in fair value accounting context A triangulation approach was adopted for the study Data was collected through a questionnaire survey and semi-structured interviews The results reveal that the value relevance (accounting quality measure) constitutes the driving force propelling this paradigm shift Fair value accounting can have favourable or adverse effect on accounting quality depending upon managerial intentions The results strongly emphasize the utility of the various components of the Annual Report, in particular, the Auditors’ Report, in influencing and evaluating accounting quality in the new environment The study will provide invaluable feedback on new accounting standards to accounting regulators and users.
  Keywords: accounting standards; IFRS; fair value; Auditor’s Report; Ind-AS; accounting quality; reliability; relevance; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10029182
   
  
• MEASURING JOB SATISFACTION LEVELS OF AIRPORT EMPLOYEES USING ENTROPY, CRITIC AND TOPSIS METHODS  
  by Sripathi Kalvakolanu, Hanumantha Rao Sama, MANOJ MATHEW, Donthu Somasekhar 
  Abstract: The paper utilises the combination of Entropy, CRITIC and TOPSIS methods to measure the job satisfaction levels of airport employees working in Vijayawada International Airport, India. To assess satisfaction levels of employees towards the job, a shorter variant of the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ) is employed and Multi-Criteria Decision making (MCDM methods) is applied. The study results show that there is a highly significant positive relationship between the weights obtained by entropy and CRITIC method. The application of the presented approach to evaluate job satisfaction level in airport employees is a novel one. Thus, the findings of the study would lead the literature in the domain further as well as help in giving better decision-making capabilities to the airport authorities and managers. With this methodology, the perceptual opinions expressed by the employees can be quantified and judged accordingly.
  Keywords: Job Satisfaction; MCDM; Entropy; CRITIC; TOPSIS; Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire (MSQ); aviation industry.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10029424
   
  
• Scientometric Evaluation of International Journal of Business Excellence (2008-2019)  
  by Santosh Baheti, Usha Lenka 
  Abstract: International Journal of Business Excellence (IJBEX) is a journal in the field of business, management, and accounting, which was founded in 2008. This paper provides a comprehensive scientometric overview of the journal and 536 publications from 2008 to 10 September 2019. A total of 536 articles published were carefully reviewed and subjected to scientometric data analysis techniques. The study focuses on publishing trend; citation analysis, co-occurrence analysis, authorship pattern, nature of articles, statistical tools and techniques adopted in research, institutional collaboration of authors, influential authors, influential articles, and industry-wise analysis. The number of articles being published in International Journal of Business Excellence has shown an upward trend. Authors from 60 countries contributed for the growth of literature. The study has also emphasised on research articles on creativity and innovation domain in the organisational context. The study shows that 40.85% of the total articles were contributed by Indian authors and 16% of the total studies contributed by Centrally Funded Technical Institutes from India.
  Keywords: Business excellence; Scientometrics; Collaborative contribution.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10029509
   
  
• Performance evaluation of advanced manufacturing technologies in small and medium enterprises located in Northern India  
  by Arishu Kaushik, Doordarshi Singh 
  Abstract: The motive of this research is to spread knowledge and highlight the contributions of advanced manufacturing technologies towards performance in small and medium enterprises of Northern India. The impact of advanced manufacturing technologies implementation in manufacturing industries of Northern India has been judgmentally assessed in this paper. A survey of significant and reasonable number of small and medium scale manufacturing enterprises have been made. This research emphases upon the major impacts of advanced manufacturing technologies such as computer aided design, computer aided manufacturing, automated material handling system and enterprise resource planning towards performance parameters such as production, quality, profit, productivity, health and safety, and flexibility. This is one of the first attempts in which relation is developed between advanced manufacturing technologies and firm performance. Further data is investigated using correlation, multiple regression and canonical cross loading analysis.
  Keywords: Advanced manufacturing technologies; small and medium enterprises; implementation; performance; production; quality; health and safety; productivity; profit; flexibility.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10029510
   
  
• The Effect of Big Five Personality Traits on Social Network Usage among the Young Generation.  
  by Javad Shahreki 
  Abstract: Though the number of users of social networks is ever-increasing, only a few studies have been conducted to evaluate and explore users’ specific personality traits that influence them to use social networks. This study aims to examine the effects of the big five personality traits on social network usage among the young generation. A conceptual model was designed and subsequently examined, using data accumulated from 126 members of Generation Y and Generation Z. Data analysis was carried out, and the hypotheses were tested using the Partial Least Squares-Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) analysis. The results revealed that, individuals with elevated levels of neuroticism, extraversion and openness personality traits, were more inclined to using social network platforms.
  Keywords: Social network; Personality traits; Generation; Social network usage.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10029666
   
  
• Examining the Impact of Strategic Agility on Strategic Renewal  
  by Hasan Al-Zu`bi 
  Abstract: This study aim to examine the impact of strategic agility dimensions (strategic sensitivity, strategic response, and collective capacities) on the dimensions of strategic renewal (exploitative strategic renewal, and explorative strategic renewal) in five star hotels in Jordan This study is based on the applied quantitative methodology to examine the causal relationship between the variables of the study; the study sample was selected according to simple random sample and included a sample of (196) of the managers of those hotels. The most important results of the study indicate that there is a significant statistic direct impact for the strategic agility dimensions on the dimensions of strategic renewal In addition to that, the results have shown the importance of each strategic agility dimension The study recommended concentrating on being more concerned with the dimensions of strategic agility, In addition to applying the variables of this study in organisations of other business sectors.
  Keywords: Strategic Agility; Strategic Renewal; five-star Hotels; Jordan.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10029676
   
  
• ServQual & Modified Kano for process improvement ? a case study of in a medical device distributor  
  by Elia Oey, Megawati Megawati, Debby Cynthia, Scherly Hansopaheluwakan 
  Abstract: Understanding customer needs in service industry is combination of art and science, as customer interaction is an important element in the firms’ offering. The research is a case study in a medical device distributor exploring possible improvement plan for their customers. The identification of customer needs was done with ServQual framework. Quantifying the customer attribute importance was done through combination of gap analysis and modified Kano model. The used Kano model was modified in order to off-set possibility of coarse scoring in the original model. For the studied company it was recommended to prioritise top three action plan : “T8- Apply Customer Feedback/Complaint form”, “T2 - Perform Sales Effectiveness Training” and “T1-Socialised Exchange Procedure”
  Keywords: Servqual; Kano; QFD; HoQ.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10029801
   
  
• IFRS in India and Some Selected Gulf Countries A Systematic Review and Synthesis for Future Research  
  by Faozi A. Almaqtari, Abdulwahid Hashid, Mohd Shamim, Najib H. Farhan 
  Abstract: The present study aims to review the state of the art of strand literature of IFRS and compare the trend of IFRS studies in India, KSA, Oman and UAE individually with the existing stock of literature from other countries. The study found that IFRS is not well documented and researched especially in KSA and India. The findings suggest that more empirical studies on different aspects of IFRS are needed especially, after convergence with IFRS in India and IFRS adoption in KSA. The study provides an insights for academicians and practitioners by highlighting what has been done and what is left to be done in IFRS in India and GCC. The study makes a novel contribution to the strand literature of IFRS. It uses a systematic evidenced-based review for IFRS studies to bridge the missing elements and highlight what left to be done in this area.
  Keywords: IFRS; Systematic review; India; KSA; Oman; UAE.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10029937
   
  
• Drivers of Purchase Intention- Hedonic or Utilitarian Values? A case of Indian Electric Car Market  
  by Asish Oommen Mathew, Sriram K. V, Aswin Philip Issac 
  Abstract: This study focuses on the Hedonic and Utilitarian values in relation to customer attitude and purchase of electric cars. The research is being conducted in select states in India who have implemented favorable electric vehicle policies. Data is collected from potential customers from these states using a validated questionnaire. The data is then analyzed using structural equation modelling-partial least square method and results are presented. Both hedonic and utilitarian values were found to have a significant influence on purchase intention, out of which, hedonic values were found to have a stronger influence. The outcome of this research provides an understanding of the mindset of Indian consumers towards electric car purchase for which practitioners can implement suitable marketing strategies.
  Keywords: Electric Cars; Hedonic Values; Utilitarian Values; Purchase Intention.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10029940
   
  
• The determinants of air transport passenger demand of the Chinese and Taiwan aviation markets from Lisbon International Airport: an Empirical modelling analysis  
  by José Manuel Vicente, Felipa Lopes Dos Reis 
  Abstract: The aim of this article is to investigate the factors that enhance the development of new air routes, in order to expand the airport network, namely, to the Chinese and Taiwanese markets, from the Lisbon International Airport, from 2002 to 2009. An essay was designed to illustrate some potentialities of the use of concepts and methodologies related to statistical models in aeronautical management applications. We used two gravitational models comparatively, using panel data, pooled OLS estimation methods, fixed effects, and random effects; and also the application of the circuit level analysis method on air routes from Brazil to Hong Kong via Lisbon. Statistical results have shown that the most important determinants of passenger demand for the Chinese and Taiwanese markets from Lisbon International Airport are: Gross Domestic Product, Population, Business Factor and y2008 (calendar year 2008).
  Keywords: Panel Data; Lisbon; Passengers Demand; Circuit Level.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10030066
   
  
• Employee Satisfaction Model: Case of Private Institutions in Indian Higher Education  
  by Rachna Bansal Jora, Shashank Mehra 
  Abstract: Most studies conduct surveys to determine the employee satisfaction level in organisations, and improvement strategies are suggested based on the attributes that show a low satisfaction level. It is not always right to make improvement plans based on these identified attributes. Sometimes these attributes include the low-quality attributes also. Low-quality attributes are items that are not crucial for employees motivation and performance. Thus, this study adopts and applies importance-satisfaction model (Yang, 2003) to analyze the improvement areas based on both importance and satisfaction criteria. A questionnaire consisting of 53 items under eight dimensions, was administered on 385 faculty of higher education institutions of India. Results highlight that fair and equal treatment, transparency in the organisations policies and procedures, pension and security benefit, job security, fair and timely promotion systems, and opportunity for advancement are the high-quality attributes for faculty. Implications of these findings and scope for future research are discussed.
  Keywords: Faculty satisfaction; higher education; private universities; employee satisfaction.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10030090
   
  
• Reverse Consumer Preference: A Case Study of Indian and American Shift Towards Locally Produced Beverages.  
  by Shilpa Praveen, Thomas Chalmers McLaughlin 
  Abstract: Consumer purchasing behaviour in India and the United States can be radically different in many different aspects. However, we observe clear similarities in consumer’s movement away from multinational brands toward locally produced brands in the beverages. This paper presents two case studies where a reversal in consumer preference is prevalent with a greater focus on locally produced beverages. We suggest this movement based on and several factors including, cultural, nationalism with a focus on community sustainability. We also suggest with a stronger local connection between the beverages and communities, there is a built-in word of mouth marketing opportunity that provides product sustainability, increase in producer’s quality of life, and stronger community networking. This paper provides an operational definition of reverse consumer preference, the disruption of national brands and suggestions for future research on the topic.
  Keywords: Consumer Preference; Reversal; Local connection; Sustainability; Community; Ethnocentrism; Culture.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10030311
   
  
• The Effect of Emotional Intelligence on Team Cohesion  
  by CHRISTABEL ODAME, Mrinalini Pandey, Pramod Pathak 
  Abstract: A “star performer,” needs to possess both technical and emotional capabilities. Therefore, this present study focused on finding the effect of Emotional Intelligence (EI) on Team Cohesion (TC) amongst engineering students in India. It further examined whether demographic factors moderate the effect of EI on TC. Using purposive sampling method, the study used a sample of 110 first year Industrial Engineering Management (IEM) students to test the proposed hypotheses. Based on a simple linear regression analysis, the study revealed a significant relationship between EI and TC. However, when the demographic factors moderated the effect of EI on TC, the results was positive but statistically insignificant. These findings offer insights into how to deal with individual differences and how team mates could easily get along. The study concluded that EI adds and supports the theory of the effect of EI on TC amongst engineering students.
  Keywords: Emotional Intelligence; EI; Team Cohesion; TC; Engineering Students; Gender; Age; Family Income.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10030315
   
  
• The Merging Odyssey of Trade, Investment and Partnership: A Linkage Model of India and Korea Interactions  
  by Joseph Varghese Kureethara, Paul C. Hong, Joseph Chacko Chennattuserry 
  Abstract: With the rising presence of India as a global power and Korea as an advanced economy, the collaborative alliance between two nations is of growing research interest. India and Korea are unusually compatible for their shared vision and amazingly comparable in their unique positions in the dynamic world that involves strong coordinating linkage mechanisms and constructive influences. This paper aims to examine how India and Korea forge strategic alliance both in business relationships and national interests. We briefly review the history of interactions between India and Korea and define a unique model of linkage roles. After discussing network theory of interactions in a liberal international order, propositions explain step by step how India and Korea merge to create a better future for countless people through trade, investment, and partnerships. Growth stages of global firms for domestic advantage and global competitiveness are presented as well. Managerial implications and future research issues are discussed.
  Keywords: Merger of Skill and Will; India; Korea; Odyssey; Linkage Mechanism; World of Business.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10030606
   
  
• An empirical investigation of the impact of service experience on emotions, satisfaction and loyalty for theme park visitors  
  by Rajesh Ittamalla, Srinivas Kumar Daruri Venkata 
  Abstract: This study investigates the effect of service experience on visitors emotions, satisfaction, and loyalty in the context of theme parks. Based on theatre theory, the study conceptualised service experience with three dimensions physical environment, interaction with staff, and interaction with other customers. A sample of 303 completed responses was collected through online survey method. Structural equation modelling results revealed that service experience significantly influenced visitors emotions and satisfaction. Moreover, visitors emotions significantly influenced visitors satisfaction and loyalty. The study recommends that theme park managers should pay attention to designing attractive physical environment, training their staff to improve their professional skills and monitor the behaviours of the customers to create memorable experiences.
  Keywords: service experience; visitor emotions; satisfaction; visitor loyalty; theme parks.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10030696
   
  
• Exploring the ties between tourist engagement, emotional responses and loyalty: A case of yoga tourism  
  by KIRTI PAHUJA 
  Abstract: This article aims to investigate the effect of visitor engagement on their emotions and the effect of emotions on their loyalty intentions. The paper also examines the mediating effect of visitors’/tourists’ emotions on the relationship between visitor engagement and loyalty intentions. The study is conducted in the context of yoga tourism. The sample of the study entails 772 tourists, visiting a popular yoga tourism destination in India. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling have been used as the multivariate analysis techniques for analyzing the data. Findings indicate that higher levels of visitor engagement significantly influence tourists’ emotions which in turn affect their loyalty towards the destination. Additionally, the tourists’ specific emotions fully mediate the relationship between visitor engagement and loyalty intentions. By highlighting the uniqueness of engagement-emotions relationship in yoga tourism, this study offers important theoretical and managerial insights in the area of tourism management.
  Keywords: Visitor engagement; Tourist emotions; Loyalty Intentions; Yoga tourism.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10030697
   
  
• The Influence of Strategic Management Accounting on Value Creation in Government Linked Companies  
  by Aidi Ahmi, Ram Al Jaffri Saad, Nik Herda Nik Abdullah 
  Abstract: This study aims to examine the connection between strategic management accounting (SMA) practices and the elements of value creation. Two hundred fifteen data from state and federal Government Linked Companies (GLCs) in Malaysia were collected through a questionnaire survey. Respondents for this study were selected through purposive sampling. These data were analysed using SPSS and AMOS to test the relationship between the SMA variables such as benchmarking, integrated performance measurement, strategic costing, strategic pricing, brand valuation, quality costing and competitors’ performance evaluation. This study found that the practitioners are aware of the advantages of adopting SMA practices and their impact on business management and performance by creating value in their organisations. SMA techniques provide strategic planning and non-financial information that encourage competition and the adoption of best practices, which helps GLCs to perform better and achieve a sustainable competitive advantage, which directly reflects in generating value creation.
  Keywords: Strategic management accounting (SMA); competitive advantage; government-linked companies (GLCs); value creation; sustainability.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10030698
   
  
• Does organisational support moderate the relationships between work-family/ family-work conflict and well-being of private university academicians?  
  by Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, Md. Saidur Rahaman, Mohammad Jamal Uddin, Iqbal Hossain Moral, Adedeji Babatunji Samuel 
  Abstract: This research paper aims at to test the moderation effects of Organisational Support (OS) in the relationship between both directions of Work-Family Conflict (Work to Family Conflict and Family to Work Conflict) and well-being. In order to achieve this fundamental objective, in this paper, the convenience sampling technique has been adopted. A sample of 280 academicians who work in private universities in Bangladesh are taken as the respondents Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) technique using AMOS, multi-group analysis method has been adopted to test for the moderation effects. The findings revealed that OS does not moderate the relationships between both directions of Work-Family Conflict (W-FC) and well-being (WB). However, the findings of this research were discussed in relation to the Conservation of Resource (COR) theory.
  Keywords: Academicians Family to Work Conflict Private Universities Work to Family Conflict and Well-being.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10030699
   
  
• A comparison of two colonial paths to the Western model of corporate governance  
  by Martin Surya Mulyadi  
  Abstract: Indonesia and Malaysia are close countries, both geographically and culturally. Both countries have historically attracted European interest. Europeans first arrived in Indonesia and Malaysia only for trading purposes, but later colonialised both Indonesia and Malaysia. Both countries have experienced quite unique impacts during their colonialisation periods, such as different colonialist country and approach, different paths to independence, and different political ideology. Conflict between the two countries existed for a brief period following Malaysia’s independence, with the relationship improving and stabilising after the new administration in Indonesia in 1965. Both countries achieved constant economic growth until the 1997 Asian financial crisis. The crisis led to both countries developing a Code of Corporate Governance which was introduced for the first time in 2000 (Alnasser, 2012; Daniel, 2003). This paper provides an historical account of the journey’s of two similar, but different countries to adopting the Western model of corporate governance.
  Keywords: Indonesia; Malaysia; corporate governance; colonialization; Asian financial crisis.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10030700
   
  
• The Role Of Controlling Shareholders in Influencing Firm Efficiency: A Case of Taiwanese Electronics Firms  
  by Norazlin Ahmad, Irene Wei Kiong Ting, Ikhlaas Gurrib, Rajesh B. Kumar 
  Abstract: This study examines how controlling shareholders affected efficiency in Taiwanese electronics firms for the period of 20052017. This study measures firm efficiency using a dynamic data envelopment analysis model, which returns scores ranging from zero (not efficient) to one (efficient). Our regression results find that controlling shareholders levels of shareholdings have significant negative effects on firm efficiency when their shareholding levels are low. However, there is a positive relationship between controlling shareholders levels of shareholding and firm efficiency when the percentage of their shareholdings is high. These nonlinear results are also confirmed when we use board seat control rights held by the controlling shareholders. This study contributes to the field of corporate governance, specifically in the application of agency theory related to principal-principal relationships. Overall, findings suggest policy makers should not consider solely controlling shareholders levels of shareholdings, but also their board seat control rights.
  Keywords: Controlling shareholders; Board seat control rights; Firm efficiency; Data envelopment analysis.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10030701
   
  
• Implementation of Lean Six Sigma Model for Scrap Reduction in Machining Sector  
  by Harsimran Singh Sodhi, Doordarshi Singh 
  Abstract: Purpose: Purpose of this study is to propose a Lean Six Sigma Model that will be applicable for manufacturing organizations for waste management and the same has been implemented in a foundry SME unit. Design: A Lean manufacturing model has been proposed in with the various phased of Six Sigma, i.e. Define, Measure, Analysis, Improve and Control are reinforced with the tools of Mean Manufacturing. Further the same has been implemented in a machining organization. Findings: After the implementation of advanced Lean Six Sigma model, significant improvement in the scrap rate and reduction of reworking has been observed. Originality: A unique Lean Sigma model that will be applicable in modern manufacturing organizations for the purpose of waste management.
  Keywords: Lean Manufacturing; Six Sigma; Lean Six Sigma; Case Study; Waste Management.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10030748
   
  
• Fuzzy c-means clustering approach for virtual cell formation  
  by Balkrishna Narkhede, Dhanraj Tambuskar, Rakesh Raut, Siba Sankar Mahapatra 
  Abstract: A virtual cell formation does not require physical changes in the existing layout but needs identification of machines and part families for better production planning and control It involves grouping of machines to form machine cells and parts to form part families to improve shop flexibility and setup efficiency of cellular manufacturing systems This paper presents a fuzzy c-mean clustering approach for machine cell formation based on the real life production factors In fuzzy c-means clustering, a membership function is used to express the strength of association with every machine cell This produces sets of non-exclusive cells that allow machines to have memberships in multiple cells rather than only in exclusive partitions so that flexibility in cell formation depending on practical constraints can be accommodated In this work, real life production attributes like processing time, alternative routings, sequence of operation, machine flexibility, machine capacity and product demand have been considered
  Keywords: Virtual manufacturing cell (VMC); Group technology efficiency; Exceptional element; Fuzzy sets; Membership function.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10030750
   
  
• Application of Analytic Hierarchy Process for Prioritization of drivers of Fit Manufacturing  
  by Arun Palaniappan, S. Vinodh, R. Mohan Raj 
  Abstract: Fit manufacturing is a competitive strategy that encompasses the characteristics of lean, agile and sustainable systems. Fit system enables organisations to improve competitive performance. In order to enable effective implementation of fit manufacturing, its drivers need to be analysed. This paper presents prioritisation of drivers of fit manufacturing using multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) tool. Analytical hierarchy process (AHP) is used as solution methodology. Twenty drivers are being considered in the study. Appropriate computations are done and the priority order of drivers is derived. Top three priority drivers are being derived. Practical implications are being highlighted.
  Keywords: fit manufacturing; drivers; multi-criteria decision making; MCDM; analytical hierarchy process; AHP; lean; agile; sustainability; sensitivity analysis.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10030807
   
  
• NETWORKING TELEMEDICINE THROUGH KIOSK: A TRI-PARTITE APPROACH  
  by Dhanya M, Sreelekshmi SR, Aswathy Sreenivasan 
  Abstract: Quality health care services are not reaching the door steps of the needy people. Today, physical consultation is the most dependent model. As diseases are also increasing with rising population, we want to develop other service delivery systems in health care. This paper deals with the possibilities of implementing virtual service delivery system in the hospital industry. Telemedicine is a virtual health delivery system that deals with the technique of using telecommunication and information technology for the remote diagnosis and treatment of patients. The focus is made to implement a telemedicine network in a 1900 bedded multi-speciality hospital, ensuring increasing patient registrations and revenue potential. This will help in improving accessibility and affordability of quality health care services to the rural community. An attempt is made to build a forecasting model, queuing model, revenue model and scheduling model from the available telemedicine patient database.
  Keywords: Telemedicine; KIOSK; virtual service delivery system.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10030846
   
  
• The Impact of Perfume Packaging on Consumer Buying Behavior of Jordanian Female  
  by Rashad Al Saed, Mohammad Abu Saleh, Hareth Hussien, Netham Sweidan 
  Abstract: The aim of this paper is to examine the impact of perfume packaging on consumer buying behavior of Jordanian women. The dimensions of perfume packaging adopted were: package color, printed information, packaging material, design of wrapper, background image and innovation, while dimensions of consumer buying behavior were: attention, arousing interest, desire for purchase, conviction, purchase, and post-purchase. A descriptive research design methodology was adopted, and a structured questionnaire was distributed to 360 women selected randomly. Data were collected and analyzed using SPSS version 18. All dimensions of perfume packaging, except package material, have a significant impact on consumer buying behavior. Also, results showed that there are no significant differences in the means of the consumer buying behavior of Jordanian women due to perfume packaging dimensions. This means that makers of perfume packaging are encouraged to view all the dimensions of packaging equally and develop them as a whole.
  Keywords: perfume; packaging; consumer behavior; package color; printed information; packaging material; design of wrapper; background image and innovation.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10030847
   
  
• Internal audit system and financial corruption in public institutions: case study of Yemeni public telecommunication corporation  
  by Saddam Hazaea, Zhu Jinyu 
  Abstract: This study aims to identify the extent to which auditors are aware of the means and procedures involved in modern control system and internal audit, evaluate the possibility of applying modern methods to the internal control and auditing systems and identifying the factors that lead to the spread of corruption and ways to address them. Primary data for the study were collected through a questionnaire prepared for this purpose and distributed to offices of internal audit management and financial department in public telecommunication corporation, 45 questionnaires were distributed, 42 valid questionnaires were retrieved in the analysis process and therefore, the percentage of recovered questionnaires adopted was about 93% of the distributed questionnaires. This study proves that the factors encourage financial corruption in Yemen include weak internal control systems, deficiencies in accounting systems, insufficient penalties, very low salary, and nepotism. Further, it is revealed that Yemen has deeply rooted and institutionalised administrative financial corruption. This study is beneficial for academicians, policy makers, government agencies and the management of Yemeni public telecommunication corporation.
  Keywords: internal audit; financial corruption; public institution; Yemen.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10030894
   
  
• Innovation in Networks of Companies with Different Governance Structures  
  by NELSON BEUTER JÚNIOR, LEANDER L. KLEIN, KADÍGIA FACCIN 
  Abstract: Different studies have found that companies networks facilitate innovation in their member companies. However, little is known about how innovations occur in networks with different modes of governance. In this sense, the purpose of this article is to identify which innovations arise in networks with a governance structure focused on leading companies in comparison to the governance structure based on network administrative organisation (NAO). Interviews with twelve entrepreneurs (six of each distinct governance structures) realised. As the main results, we verify the greater diversity of innovation in networks with governance mode based on the NAO model. Innovations in product and market have been more explicit in the networks with this structure of governance. We conclude that structural, managerial, coordination, and control aspects of members activities favour networks with the NAO model and direct more innovations in these networks.
  Keywords: Innovation; Business Networks; Governance Structure; Network Administrative Organization; Lead Organization.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10030905
   
  
• The Role of Newcomers’ Proactive Behaviors on Well-Being, Engagement and Turnover Intention  
  by Robinson James 
  Abstract: Well-being and engagement are the two socialisation outcomes that contribute to the success of both the organisation and newcomers. This study proposed that newcomers engagement in proactive behaviours positively influence their well-being and engagement, and engagement and well-being negatively influence their turnover intention. These relationships were tested using data collected from a group of 154 newcomers who had been recruited within the last one year in garment industry in Sri Lankan. The proposed model was assessed through structural equation modelling with SmartPLS. Results indicated that newcomers proactive behaviours had important role to play in the prediction of their well-being and engagement. Also well-being and engagement negatively influence newcomers intention to leave. The findings underline the essential role of newcomers proactive behaviour on their well-being, engagement and turnover intention. This study extends the organisational socialisation literature by investigating the influence of proactive behaviour on engagement, well-being and intention to leave among newcomers in garment industry in Sri Lankan context which is an unnoticed population in the organisational socialisation research.
  Keywords: Socialization; newcomers; proactive behaviors; engagement; well-being; turnover intention.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10030908
   
  
• CEO duality, board size and firm performance: Evidence in Vietnam  
  by Le Thi My Hanh, Irene Wei Kiong Ting, Qian Long Kweh, Ha Lam Tan Ngo 
  Abstract: From the perspective of the agency and stewardship theories for explaining the relationship between corporate governance and firm performance, this study examines the impacts of CEO duality and board size on the firm performance. We assess the association between CEO duality, board size and firm performance of top 200 companies listed on the Vietnam Stock Exchange (VSE) over 20142015. Our findings show that: 1) CEO duality limits the monitoring function of the board, and a large board size promotes dominance and power of leaders that create more conflicts; 2) the number of executive directors in the top management positively influences firm performance. Findings of our study certainly help policymakers and other stakeholders understand the relationship between CEO duality, board size and firm performance. Overall, this study highlights the CEO duality and the relationship of board size and firm performance in a nation with less protection of minority shareholders.
  Keywords: firm performance; CEO duality; board size; Vietnam.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031019
   
  
• Workplace Ostracism Scale: Examining the Psychometric Properties on Indian Sample  
  by Kannu Priya Kamboj, Pooja Garg 
  Abstract: The present study examined the factorial structure, validity and reliability of the workplace ostracism scale (Ferris et al., 2008) across the Indian employees. It also elaborates on the differences in perception of ostracism at work concerning gender. A sample of 350 IT sector employees within India, recruited through convenience sampling technique, participated in an online survey. Exploratory factor analysis resulted in retaining the single factor structure of the workplace ostracism scale. However, the number of items retained in this study reduced to eight from the original 10-item scale. To establish the predictive validity of workplace ostracism, its relationship with perceived transformational leadership style among supervisors resulted in a negative association, in line with the literature around these constructs. Additionally, the results of independent samples t-test found that significant differences in the feeling of being ostracised exist across gender. The present study provides relevant implications and future research prospects.
  Keywords: workplace ostracism; India; convergent validity; predictive validity; transformational leadership styles; gender; factor analysis.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031041
   
  
• An Insight into Internet Banking Services by University Students in Bangladesh  
  by Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, Adedeji Babatunji Samuel, Md. Saidur Rahaman 
  Abstract: The internet banking services already has global acceptance, as a means to making banking services relevant to the needs of the customers. Most of the past studies have focused on overseas IB transactions but with no emphasis on university students (www.ukessays.com), whereas university students are the major users of internet facilities particularly in relation to the learning processes to update their knowledge base. Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine the perception of the university students in Bangladesh concerning internet-banking services. A special type of purposive sampling technique, the maximum variation sampling (MVS) (qualitative approach) was used for the selection and interviewing of nine students from various disciplines from three universities at Sylhet city in Bangladesh. The results show that internet-banking services are currently not satisfactory due to many causes, such as, undue waiting time, insufficient information, lack of safety, and so on. The respondents are from three universities in a particular region, thus, more universities and other nationalities can be included in future studies.
  Keywords: banks; internet banking; satisfaction; qualitative approach; university students; Bangladesh.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031178
   
  
• IBB MODEL FOR BARCODE PRINTERS MARKET IN INDIA: PURCHASE MANAGER’S PERSPECTIVE  
  by Vinoth Muthulingam, SANTHANA LAKSHMI 
  Abstract: Over the past few decades, the growth of printing market, especially barcode printing has been growing at a rapid rate due to the ever-growing demand. The booming retail sector and the rise in the demand for the point of sales are two factors which drive the barcode printer market. The buying behaviour theory in the barcode printing industry is investigated in detail by conducting questionnaire and performing analysis. The questionnaire is prepared by categorically classifying the factors into four parts. The first part covers the profiles of respondents whereas the second part related to industrial buying behaviour. The third part covers the brand loyalty and determinants. The final part includes the level of switching intentions. The pilot study was carried out among 40 purchase managers at Chennai. The questionnaire was sent through parts to all the sampled units. Hence, the responded samples included for the final study came to 396.
  Keywords: industrial buying behaviour; switching intentions behaviour; barcode printers; buying process; selection of suppliers; level of brand loyalty; antecedents of switching intentions; purchase decisions; Chennai region; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031313
   
  
• Expectations of the students from Institutions offering higher education: Literature Review  
  by Ankur Kukreti, Arun Kant Painoli 
  Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to examine the expectation of the students from the institutions providing higher education. Students are the key stakeholder in the education system and their expectation and experience matter a lot when the question of providing satisfaction and retention of the students in higher education is concerned. For measuring the satisfaction it is essential to know the expectation of the students and the actual delivery of the service by the institutions. To know this gap the researcher undertook extensive literature review of the previous literature by the various researchers. The gap will help us to understand the expectation of the students from the higher institutions and will also help us to know the areas of improvements where we have to work in order to remove the gap.
  Keywords: higher education; students expectations; students satisfaction.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031315
   
  
• Do Narratives in Corporate Annual Report influenced by firm attributes?  
  by Lokanath Mishra, P.K. Haldar 
  Abstract: The yearly corporate report of a narrative disclosure probably helps the users those who lack the resources, expertise and tools that are required in interpreting and garnering the corporate information. Corporate reporting no more inadequate to only income statement and balance sheet thereby embrace extensive number of narrative disclosures catering various stakeholders. However, corporate reports are marked of growth in size in recent times. They are becoming richer and longer in content. Making the corporate reports incomparable for the general users and it is very difficult to handle even for the technical specialists. In light of this the present study investigated the power of fixed attributes on the level of corporate narrative disclosures, if any, through multiple regression analysis and found that size, level of foreign shareholding, and revenue from abroad are major attributes having an important influence on the divergence in the disclosure of narratives in corporate annual report. The study may be helpful to corporate managers, regulators and accounting standard-setters for the improvement of narrative disclosure practice in corporate annual reports.
  Keywords: narrative; accounting; corporate disclosure; annual report.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031316
   
  
• The Drivers of Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty in Automotive Aftermarket Industry  
  by Jyoti Kumar Chandel, Syed Aulia Mohiuddin, G.P. Mishra 
  Abstract: Global automotive aftermarket industry is witnessing significant developments and disruptions. Hence, automotive companies are constantly looking for better insights of customers and subsequently attempting to design effective marketing strategies. This study attempts to examine drivers of customer satisfaction and loyalty in automotive aftermarket industry. Study also aims to develop model to examine the structural relationships between the constructs of service quality, product quality, price fairness, customer loyalty and customer satisfaction in automotive aftermarket industry using partial least square-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM). Mediating role of customer satisfaction has been examined. Primary data for this study was collected from the customers of automobile service centres through multi-stage sampling in the Sultanate of Oman. Results of model testing have demonstrated high predictive power of the model. Customer satisfaction has been found to be partially mediating in the relationships of service quality and customer loyalty and price fairness and customer loyalty.
  Keywords: service quality; product quality; price fairness; customer loyalty; customer satisfaction; automotive aftermarket.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031317
   
  
• What Determines Income Diversification of Banking Firms in Pakistan?  
  by Mian Sajid Nazir, Yasir Ashraf, Salah U-Din, Muhammad Shahbaz Yaqoob, Aamer Shahzad 
  Abstract: During the last few decades, an increasing tendency of banks has been observed to move from just financial intermediation activities to such new products and services that produce fee-based incomes. In this regard, literature provides conflicting evidences on the factors that predict non-interest incomes earned by banks. This study explores the determinants of non-interest income of commercial banks in Pakistan. Findings provide evidence that ownership, net interest margin, loan to assets ratio, implicit interest payment, management quality, and ATM have significant influence on non-interest income. Foreign banks are earning more non-interest income than domestic banks, whereas, domestic banks are focusing on conventional function of intermediation. However, this financial intermediation enables these banks to offer fee-based products to both borrowers and depositors that helps in generating non-interest income. Policy makers should consider the factors that drive the competition in the market.
  Keywords: non-interest income; income diversification; ownership; interest margin; management quality.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031434
   
  
• Exploring the Relationships between the Organisational Flexible Work Arrangements and the Directionality of Work-Family Conflict  
  by Mohammad Mizanur Rahman, Mohammad Jamal Uddin, Adedeji Babatunji Samuel, Md Saidur Rahaman 
  Abstract: This study has explored the relationships between the dimensions of organisational flexible work arrangements (FWA) and the directionality of work family conflict. In addition, the study has also focused on the organisational strategy based on flexible policy to mitigate work family conflict. A cross-sectional design with a self-administrated questionnaire was adopted to collect data from 313 academicians of private universities in Bangladesh. However, to explore the research observations and findings of this study, both descriptive and inferential statistics were used. The researchers found that specific form of flexibility (flex-time and flex-place) and the directions of work family conflict (work to family conflict and family to work conflict) make the difference in their effects though the overall effects are small in magnitude. If top management and higher authority of private universities want to arrange FWA policy for their academicians they can use the findings of the study.
  Keywords: Flexible Work Arrangements Flex-time; Flex-place Work-Family Conflict Family Work Conflict.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2019.10031438
   
  
• Investigating the Effects of Workplace Diversity on Employee Performance in Higher Education Institution  
  by Sachin Kumar Srivastava, Deepti Sharma 
  Abstract: Globalisation demands institutions to grow in heterogeneous workplace where each and every employee will perform with their fullest potentials. Nowadays, if workplace diversity is managed properly it may lead to higher organisational performance in terms of values, perspectives, creativity, innovative and if not managed properly then it may lead to greater conflicts between groups which result in to higher turnover. Workplace diversity is about acknowledging differences and adapting work practices to create an inclusive environment and it has been expected to be an important part of occupational life in the corporate world. This study aims to investigate the effects of workplace diversity on employee performance in their institution. This also examines workplace diversity by using demographic variables. The implication of the study will help policy makers to view workplace diversity as an important facet in university administration along with the legal provisions. Moreover, the result also reveals that workplace diversity does provide many thereby increasing employee performances.
  Keywords: workplace diversity; gender diversity; age diversity; ethnic diversity; employee performance.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031517
   
  
• THE MEDIATION ROLE OF ABSORPTIVE CAPACITY ON ENVIRONMENTAL DYNAMISM’S EFFECT ON SUSTAINABLE COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE (EVIDENCE FROM INDONESIAN TERTIARY EDUCATION)  
  by Astadi Pangarso, Endang Siti Astuti, Kusdi Raharjo, Tri Wulida Afrianty 
  Abstract: This study aims to examine the theoretical framework related to the effect of environmental dynamism on sustainable competitive advantage mediated by knowledge infrastructure capability and absorptive capacity. The research method used was a survey with a questionnaire focused on 530 respondents from 64 non-vocational private-tertiary education institutions (PTEI) in the area of Bandung, West Java province, Indonesia. The collected data was then processed using SPSS and Smart PLS. The results of the data processing show that the knowledge infrastructure capability does not significantly mediate the influence of environmental dynamism towards sustainable competitive advantage. However, absorptive capacity is proven to positively and significantly fully mediate the impact of environmental dynamism on sustainable competitive advantage. This research is relevant because it indirectly influences the preparation of Indonesian tertiary education institutions in realising the Golden Indonesia 2045. Research on the influence of environmental dynamism and sustainable competitive advantage still opens up the research gap to be empirically reconduct using mediation variables.
  Keywords: environmental dynamism; knowledge infrastructure capability; absorptive capacity; sustainable competitive advantage.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031632
   
  
• The Impact of Strategic Planning on the Performance of the Private Corporations in Palestine from the perspective of Balanced Scorecard  
  by Muath Ammar 
  Abstract: This study aims to identify the impact of strategic planning on the performance of private corporations for a model from developing countries. Secondary data were obtained from articles, books, and records. The preliminary data were collected with the help of the questionnaire. The survey included the employees with knowledge in the field of administrative sciences, economics, and people with knowledge and experience in the area of strategic planning for 13 services corporations. The data collected from private corporations were analysed by statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS). The study reached several results, the most important of which is that strategic planning and elements of strategic planning have a positive impact on performance. Also the study showed that there is a difference in the application of strategic planning due to the size of the corporation and the operational period of the corporation.
  Keywords: strategic planning; performance; vision; mission; goals; strategic analysis; strategic option; balance scorecard.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031693
   
  
• An Analysis of Affecting Factors on Employee's Turnover Intention Thinking: A Case Study  
  by Samaneh Raeesi Nafchi, Mohammad Reza Fathi, Seyed Mohammad Sobhani 
  Abstract: Many managers have found that sustainable competitive advantage in organisations depends on human resources and employees who have been involved in their work and also achieve their personal goals align with organisational goals until the organisation can succeed in the market. Therefore, the issue of staff turnover has overriding importance. This study aims to identify and rank affecting factors causing thoughts and tendencies in employee turnover intentions. In this research, using the review of the background and interview with experts, nine variables were extracted. The statistical population of this research is staffs working at Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. Among the staffs, 15 staffs were selected using available judgmental sampling method. Finally, based on the results of fuzzy DEMATELs technique, total inventory (C5) is ranked first.
  Keywords: affecting factors; turnover intentions; fuzzy DEMATEL.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031812
   
  
• Impact of Corporate Governance on Firm Value in the Presence of Earning Quality and Real Earnings Management  
  by Mian Sajid Nazir, Ahmed Shahzad, Muhammad Ali Jibran Qamar, Ammar Abid 
  Abstract: The objective of this study is to investigate how strong corporate governance impact is on firm value in the presence of earning quality and real earning management for public limited firms in Pakistan. Findings of this research are consistent with all hypotheses expounded, significantly mediated, earning quality and moderate, the real earning management between the relationship of corporate governance and a firm value. Firms, who have a strong corporate governance structure, enhance the earning quality and a firm value and control real earning management. The study provides policy implications that strong corporate governance practices are value-oriented for firms, and the government should provide more resources to improve corporate governance practices. Moreover, regulators must ensure that public listed companies disclose the truthful information about financials and corporate governance reports to provide the benefits to the user of financial statements, which ultimately enhance the firm value.
  Keywords: real earnings management; firm value; corporate governance regimes; endogenous switching regression model.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031827
   
  
• Do Cross Border Acquisitions Increase Shareholder’s Wealth? The Case of Indian Pharmaceutical Firms  
  by Abdul Wajid 
  Abstract: Indian pharmaceutical firms have been on an acquisition spree and witnessed around 216 Cross border acquisition deals worth more than $11,350 million during January 2005 to March 2019. The primary motive of this study is to analyse the impact of cross border acquisition (CBA) announcements on the short-run abnormal returns to Indian acquirers in the pharmaceutical sector. This study applied event study methodology and analysed 55 CBAs that happened in 24 foreign markets by 27 Indian pharmaceutical firms, from the year 2005 to 2018. Both parametric and non-parametric tests were applied to examine the robustness of abnormal returns. It was found that the announcements of foreign acquisitions by Indian pharmaceutical firms have created wealth gains for the shareholders. Further, there is strong evidence that Indian pharmaceutical firms experience significant positive abnormal returns surrounding the acquisition announcements of target firms in the developed markets and in contrast experienced insignificant negative abnormal returns when the acquired target firms were based in developing markets.
  Keywords: Indian pharmaceutical firms; cross border acquisitions; CBAs; foreign acquisitions; mergers and acquisitions; M&As; abnormal returns; shareholder’s wealth; event study methodology; short term gains.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031853
   
  
• Expatriates and Social Support: Exploring Conceptual Role of Unconscious Bias  
  by Sahiba Sharma, Gyan Prakash 
  Abstract: The necessity of cultural awareness is at priority as categorisation starts at very young age from home, schools and even in higher education. The purpose of this study is to theoretically clarify and conceptualise the role of natives unconscious bias and social categorisation towards expatriates in withdrawing social support. Due to the paucity of studies on the conceptual understanding of the role of unconscious bias, this paper proposes a conceptual framework based on the literature review and extends the existing literature on social categorisation theory. The findings of the study introduce individual factors that may reduce unconscious bias at the workplace and to frame policies based on subjective measures of unconscious bias. Additionally, it bridges the conceptual gap of social support and unconscious bias in the context of expatriates.
  Keywords: natives; expatriates; social categorisation theory; social support; unconscious bias.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031858
   
  
• PRACTICING SOFT HRM FOR GENERATION Y EMPLOYEES AGAINST THE TURNOVER CRISIS OF 21st CENTURY  
  by M.D. MAHAMUDUL HASSAN, Manimekalai Jambulingam, Elangkovan A./.L. Narayan, Md Uzir Hossain Uzir, Hussam Al Halbusi 
  Abstract: Frequent turnover cause enormous problems which remain a burning issue for the last few decades, moreover with the inception of Gen Y employees it has risen further Earlier in general problem was turnover but with the massive initiation of Gen Y employees in the private sectors, it is found that traditional retention policies are not working especially over Gen Y Literature reviews reveal that SHRM is likely to be one of the most effective measures for the retention of Gen Y employees As such it is found that this Soft HRM is the viable demands of Gen Y to ensure Job Satisfaction and retentions SEM (AMOS) was used to analyse the data, create the model and to find out the mediating effects The result reveals the essential insights regarding the knowledge of Gen Ys viable Soft HRM requirements The study contributed to all concerns which included all stakeholders.
  Keywords: soft HRM; human resource management; HRM; job satisfaction; generation; retention; Gen Y; turnover; millennial.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10031979
   
  
• The Impact of Cross-functional Integration of Production &Marketing on BTO Competitiveness and Performance  
  by Zhixiang Chen 
  Abstract: This paper is to explore how cross-functional integration of production-marketing can impact the firm’s Build-to-Order (BTO) competitiveness and performance. Meanwhile, from the perspective of organizational governance, examine the moderating effect of ownership types on these interrelationships, and provide managerial implications for practitioners. Empirical study using the structural equation modeling and regression approaches are applied. The survey data supports that PMI improves BTO competitiveness (BTOC) and marketing performance, and BTOC also positively affects marketing outcome, which in turn impacts a firm’s financial performance. The PMI indirectly impacts financial performance by the mediating role of marketing performance. Results show that for Chinese manufacturers, state-owned firms have the lowest PMI performance and poorest BTO competitiveness. The paper uncovers the role of cross-functional integration of production-marketing integration in BTO manufacturing strategy, providing implications for different ownership firms to improve production-marketing integration.
  Keywords: Manufacturing strategy; organizational ownership; production-marketing integration; build-to-order competitiveness; performance; empirical study.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032111
   
  
• Which effective linkages between women empowerment and economic development in India?  
  by Amina OMRANE, Sudin Bag 
  Abstract: Economic Development without empowerment of women is hardly possible for a developing country like India The present study tries to explore the current scenario of women empowerment in India and sketches the interface between this phenomenon and the economic development of India It is based on the secondary data, which are collected from various reports related to Human Development Index, Election Commission of India, General Register of India, etc Using the statistical data regarding economic development and women empowerment and employing multivariate analysis of variance, the obtained results show that economic development and women empowerment correlates each other in developing countries like India Findings indicate also that the variance explained by women empowerment indicators is higher than the economic development indicators’ one On the basis of the empirical results of this research, it is recommended that women empowerment should be well considered by the competent authorities.
  Keywords: Women empowerment; economic development; multivariate analysis of variance; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032164
   
  
• DETERMINANTS AND THE CONSEQUENCE OF ADVERTISING SKEPTICISM: A CASE OF POPULAR BRAND OF INSTANT NOODLE  
  by Hotniar Siringoringo, Yuhilza Hanum, Sudaryanto Sudaryanto 
  Abstract: The central interest of the current study was the advertising skepticism. The main goal was to examine the factors trigger advertising skepticism as well as the impact of advertising skepticism on consumer behavior Particularly, we evaluated the effect of media credibility, company reputation (CR), and CSR, on advertising skepticism In addition, the study also aimed to evaluate the effect of advertising skepticism on advertising avoidance, attitude towards advertising, ads credibility, and attitude toward a brand Quasi-experiment was performed in collecting the data, and SEM was used to analyze the data The result indicates that media credibility and CR affected advertising skepticism significantly and negatively but not CSR Similarly, advertising skepticism affected the attitude towards advertising, ads credibility, and attitude toward a brand significantly and negatively Advertising skepticism affected advertising avoidance significantly and positively It was also found the significant and positive effect of CR on Attitude towards advertising.
  Keywords: advertising skepticism; advertising avoidance; attitude towards advertising; attitude towards a brand; advertising credibility; company reputation; CSR; media credibility.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032251
   
  
• A QUALITATIVE AND QUANTITATIVE COMPARISON OF VARIOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES  
  by Harsimran Singh Sodhi  
  Abstract: The main purpose of this study is to compare various waste management techniques qualitatively and quantitatively. In this study, a qualitative analysis of various techniques has been done on the basis of literature review further AHP method has been used for the comparison of waste management techniques. Lean Six Sigma has been emerged as the best waste management technique during the comparison of various waste management techniques qualitatively and quantitatively. This study will assist the floor managers in manufacturing organisations to identify the best waste management technique and to plan accordingly for the adequate implementation.
  Keywords: lean manufacturing; Six Sigma; Lean Six Sigma; waste management; scrap reduction; SME’s; total quality management; quality control; kaizen; just in time; poka-yoke.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032314
   
  
• A fourth industrial revolution approach to total quality management on innovation performance: Evidence from South Africa  
  by Sugandren Naidoo 
  Abstract: Although much research on the relationship of TQM practices and innovation performance within manufacturing has been conducted, extant literature from a research perspective is very much lacking. Currently, the Fourth Industrial Revolution (FIR) will continue to drive the strategic research, development and business focus towards strategic investment, geared in the direction of the building of innovation capacities and organisation performance, whilst utilising effective quality management practices. The aim is to examine the impact of total quality management (TQM) practices on innovation performance in a research organisation from a South African context. A multi collinearity test was used to assess the data collected. The results indicate that TQM practices; namely: leadership, customer focus, people management, and strategy display a significant and positive relationship with innovation performance. A distinct benefit is a renewed customer-centric approach which will enable the development, sustainability and enhance organisational strategy for the commercialisation of products and processes.
  Keywords: total quality management; TQM; research organisation; leadership; innovation; performance; strategy; multi-collinearity; South Africa.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032315
   
  
• EVALUATION OF SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVES FOR RESTAURANTS USING THE FUZZY TOPSIS METHOD  
  by Deoclécio Junior Cardoso Da Silva, Denise Adriana Johann, Jones L. Schaefer, Andrieli De Fátima Nunes, Edio Polacinski, Ranice Hoehr Pedrazzi Pozzer 
  Abstract: The sustainability context has received great attention considering the aspects of the current market. In this context, the objective of this paper is to evaluate sustainable alternatives under the perspective of restaurant managers in a Federal University in Brazil. Using alternatives focused on sustainability in restaurants, it was established an evaluation under the perspective of different managers to determine the alternatives that stand out the most in the sense of boosting restaurants sustainability. Data referring to the alternatives were obtained from restaurant managers, and the best sustainable alternatives were ranked using the fuzzy TOPSIS method. The results showed that the best alternatives were the correct destination and disposal of burnt cooking oil as well as the reduction of food waste. It was also possible to verify that the restaurants are developing good sustainable practices and, with the results, this paper can offer subsidies about sustainability alternatives for restaurant managers.
  Keywords: sustainability in restaurants; fuzzy TOPSIS; sustainable alternatives; sustainability.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032318
   
  
• Can Islamic banks sustain with a simultaneously strong conventional banking counterpart - A comparative study of financial performance of Islamic and Conventional Banks in Bahrain  
  by SATYA PAVAN KUMAR R, SHEELA PALURI 
  Abstract: Banking sector plays a vital role in the field of finance. Islamic banks show incredible growth across the globe in providing valuable services to the needy as compared to the counterpart of conventional banks. This paper aims to analyse the comparative financial performance of Islamic and conventional banks in Bahrain for a period of ten years from 2007 to 2016. For this purpose, financial ratio analysis tool is used to compare the profitability, liquidity, solvency and efficiency of Islamic banks and conventional banks. The percentage analysis, averages, standard deviation and t test are the statistical techniques employed in this study.
  Keywords: financial performance; Islamic banks; conventional banks; profitability; liquidity; solvency; efficiency; Bahrain.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032321
   
  
• PRACTICAL GENDER NEEDS ( PGN) AND WOMEN EMPOWERMENT: AN IMPACT ASSESSMENT OF MICROFINANCE  
  by Sharada Prasad Sahoo, Biswajit Prasad Chhatoi, Manoj Kumar Dash 
  Abstract: People at the base of the pyramid are equally interested for socio-economic change through enhanced participation in practical gender needs (PGNs) for their social empowerment. This paper attempts to estimate the impact of microfinance participation on decision making related to PGNs women. This study is exploratory in nature based on primary survey. Using multi-stage sampling, the authors purposefully sampled 660 poor women, spread over 4 district of Odisha. The research results revealed that out of practical needs microfinance have significant impact on five practical needs whereas on the rest practical needs microfinance participation have insignificant impact. The enhanced ability to take practical needs will lead to participate in strategic needs. The enhanced participation in both type of decision making is an indicator of women empowerment and change agent for socio-economic development. The result of paper insights into enriched participation of women in practical need decision making by estimating impacts on economic and social aspects. This work has potential to augment the policy formulation by posing greater thrust on social dimensions of microfinance.
  Keywords: microfinance; practical gender need; PGN; probit model; women empowerment; socio-economic development.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032348
   
  
• INVESTIGATING HOSTELS REVISIT INTENTION IN TAIWAN: THE MODERATING EFFECT OF CUSTOMERS’ DESIRE  
  by S. YESHWANT RAJ, ALVARO GARCIA CARVAJAL, CHIEHWEN E.D. HSU 
  Abstract: The present study examines the potential relationship existing in customers’ desire, satisfaction, trust and revisit intention in hostel services patronage in Taiwan. It employs the expectation-confirmation Theory to examine the potential relationship among variables which are the antecedents of customers’ satisfaction and trust, a moderating variable, namely desire was integrated into the research framework. A survey questionnaire included a sample of 200 subjects of respondents and was collected over five hostels located in the metropolitan cities of Taiwan. Expectations and perceived values both have substantial effects on customers’ satisfaction; In addition, satisfaction per se has a significant effect on trust and revisit intention. A major unusual finding is that desire has a positive moderating effect on trust and revisit intention. Surprisingly, there is a negative moderating effect of desire towards satisfaction and revisit intention. Service quality and trust were not critical whereas expectation satisfaction and desire are the critical factors.
  Keywords: Satisfaction; Trust; Desire; Revisit intention; Expectation.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032404
   
  
• A Critical Analysis of Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019 (CAA)  
  by Brij Mohan Dutta  
  Abstract: Abstract India is a Parliamentary Democracy and primary function of the Parliament is to legislate and that legislation is the will of the people in a democracy Constitution is supreme in India and Supreme Court is the custodian of the Constitution and is final interpreter of the law The right of a sovereign nation to determine who to allow to settle and work has never been seriously contested Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019 (CAA) is the event in Parliamentary history of India which has created so much turmoil all over the country This research paper is the need of the hour to examine the amendment in Citizenship Act, 1955 In this paper the concept of citizenship, its relevance in context of our freedom struggle, on partition and after partition is examined The history, problem, state and reasons of religious persecution of minorities of six religious communities i e Hindu, Sikh, Jain,
  Keywords: Key words: Citizenship Amendment Act; Religious Persecution; Amendments; Refugees; Citizenship Act.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032405
   
  
• Mediating role of Information silence between destructive leadership and counterproductive work behavior: Evidence from Tanner sector of Pakistan  
  by SAMAR RAHI, Sohail Younus, Rizwan Qaiser Danish, Shrafat Ali Sair 
  Abstract: The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship among the destructive leadership constructs and counterproductive work behavior (CWB) in tanners sector of Pakistan. Destructive leadership has composed of further three constructs that are Machiavellianism, abusive supervision and psychopathic behavior. The study also investigated the mediating role of information silence in these relationships. Data was collected from 353 respondents by using self-administered questionnaires from tanners sector of Pakistan. Data were analyzed through Structure equation modeling and test the hypothesized relationships. Quantitative results showed the existence of destructive leadership lead to CWB in tanners sector. Information silence mediates the relationship among destructive leadership and CWB except the relationship of Machiavellianism with Information silence and CWB. Tanneries should conduct different training sessions to reduce the effect of destructive leadership behavior in workplace to reduce the counterproductive work behavior. Future studies may conduct on destructive leadership with horizontal violence and organizational politics.
  Keywords: Destructive leadership; counterproductive work behavior;Information silence; Tanners Sector; Workplace ?.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032407
   
  
• Ambidexterity: realizing organizational innovation in healthcare organizations  
  by Youngsoo Park, Abraham Nahm 
  Abstract: This study suggests ambidexterity as a guiding innovative perspective for healthcare organizations. Based on case illustrations from medical practitioners, a definition of healthcare ambidexterity and a desirable direction for operational capabilities are provided. As a theoretical implication, experiential capability should be chosen in the case of a low degree of control and a high degree of collaboration, while a high degree of control and a low degree of collaboration should indicate a focus on lean capability. This research makes a contribution to provide a clear understanding of “healthcare ambidexterity” and an articulation of the practical development of operational capabilities.
  Keywords: ambidexterity; organizational innovation; healthcare organization; case study; proposition development.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032438
   
  
• The Usage of Enterprise Resource Planning System to Enhancing performance of Medium-Sized Business Excellence.  
  by Adejare Yusuff, Arfan Shahzad 
  Abstract: This study examines the effectiveness of the enterprise resource planning (ERP) system adoption to enrich the organisational performance of medium-sized enterprise firms. This study focuses on four factors, support from top management, organisational support, information access and technological change. Diffusion of innovation and contingency theories were adopted to examine the effectiveness of ERP adoption. The data were collected through the questionnaires and sent to 355 medium-sized enterprise firms in Lagos, Nigeria. It is important to note that this study was limited to selected medium-sized enterprises in Lagos, Nigeria. The data were analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling. The study found evidence that three factors, management support, organisational support, and technological change, positively significantly influence the adoption of an ERP system to improve the organisational performance of medium-sized enterprise firms. On the other hand, information access has no significant effect on the adoption of an ERP system. This study received very good responses from medium-sized enterprises, and it is believed that the purpose of this study will increase the understanding of ERP adoption in Nigeria and its effectiveness. Furthermore, the studys findings could inform future studies on how ERP could improve the organisational performance of both SMEs and large companies.
  Keywords: enterprise resource planning system; support from top management; organisational support; information access; technological change; medium-sized enterprises performance.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032450
   
  
• Lean Six Sigma: A Clinical Treatment for National Health Care System  
  by Harsimran Singh Sodhi  
  Abstract: Lean Six Sigma is a business-driven, multi-faceted approach to process improvement, reduced costs, and increased profit. It helps to improve quality of product and cost saving. Lean Six Sigma is considered to be one of the best quality improvement methodology applied successfully to organisational areas like manufacturing, production, accounting and finance, sales and marketing, information systems, human resource management, etc. Lean Six Sigma is a project driven approach that concentrates on reducing variations, defects and improving the quality of products, processes as well as services. Basically Lean Six Sigma measures 3.4 defects per million of opportunities (DPMO) and it operate on the concept of DMAIC. In the proposed work, guides how DMAIC can be successfully implemented in medical transcription to identify different Lean Six Sigma projects by identifying critical to quality (CTQ).
  Keywords: Lean Six Sigma; medical transcription; DMAIC; critical to quality; CTQ; Lean Six Sigma projects.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032503
   
  
• A Systematic Literature Review of the Sales Promotion’s Utilitarian and Hedonic Benefits  
  by Somesh Kumar Sinha  
  Abstract: With the growing importance of sales promotion tools, it is vital to widen understanding regarding sales promotion and its benefits. However, existing works of literature provide evidence about sales promotion's impacts on the consumer evaluation process through hedonic and utilitarian benefits, though existing literature has fragmented understandings and contradictory opinions and less theoretical foundations. In answer to these criticisms, this article systematically studies about Utilitarian and Hedonic Benefits of sales promotion, intending to find out what is known and what requires to be explored further. The findings of this review provide information that a majority of existing literature about Utilitarian and Hedonic Benefits of sales promotion have prioritized Asian, European and American geographical location and sample. It is also observed that maximum studies are conducted in the context of fast-moving consumer goods. Exploration, Entertainment and Value expression are the most studied hedonic benefits, while Saving, Convenience and Higher quality are the most studied utilitarian benefits of sales promotion.
  Keywords: utilitarian benefit; hedonic benefit; sales promotion; systematic review.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032560
   
  
• Entrepreneurial Orientation of Rural Women in the Hill Districts of Uttarakhand: A Behavioural Perspective  
  by Amar Kumar, Tapan Kumar Nayak, Rajesh Kumar Upadhyay, Anjali Rai 
  Abstract: The Government of India in the last two decades have carved out many small regions from their parental states such as Chattisgarh, Jharkhand, Uttarakhand .These regions are full of natural resources, and Government had initiated various policies for their development. However, the results are a bit lopsided. The growth seems to be more skewed towards plain areas then hill areas. Even in the hill regions, it is skewed towards urban districts then rural districts. And within the rural district, it is skewed towards male than women. There is very meagre change in the development of women in the rural areas of hill districts. This calls for a change from an agricultural society to an entrepreneurial society. However entrepreneurship cannot be developed unless there is an orientation from within. The purpose of this paper is to explore the entrepreneurial orientation among women in the rural regions of hill districts of Uttarakhand.
  Keywords: Entrepreneurship; Entrepreneurial Orientation; Uttarakhand.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032711
   
  
• Identification of World-Class Manufacturing Strategies and Their Implementation Requirements in Food Industry (Case Study: Olive Product)  
  by Hadiseh Kalantari, Mohsen Shafiei Nikabadi, Azimollah Zarei 
  Abstract: For decades, world-class manufacturing has attracted tremendous attention and become one of the driving forces for business success in organisations. Paying attention to customers needs from different perspectives and planning to meet them helps industries achieve world-class manufacturing. The main purpose of this study is to identify the world-class manufacturing strategies and their implementation requirements in Irans food industry (case study: olive product), using quality function deployment (QFD) technique. In this study, at first, the most important customer needs, technical requirements, and world-class manufacturing strategies were identified. Then, the customers needs were ranked using the TOPSIS method, and the relationships and value of technical requirements and world-class manufacturing strategies were identified and analysed by the house of quality matrix. According to the results, to achieve world-class manufacturing with good quality, all three factors (customers needs, technical requirements and world-class manufacturing strategies) must be scrutinised. In the present study, the most important customer need, technical requirement, and world-class manufacturing strategy were brand and product reliability, better technologies and process and product development, respectively.
  Keywords: strategy; world-class manufacturing; WCM; olive industry; quality function deployment; QFD; TOPSIS.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032841
   
  
• Entrepreneurship in a Protected Region with Limited Infrastructure: A Study of Mizoram State in India  
  by Rosangpuii Hmar, Geetika Goel, Nidhi Tiwari 
  Abstract: Extant literature has established direct link between entrepreneurship and economic development whereas entrepreneurship is determined by various macro and micro variables. The purpose of the paper is to explore factors shaping entrepreneurship in a region which is remotely located and suffers with lack of infrastructure in spite of being rich in term of education and natural resources. Therefore, it may be useful to explore the entrepreneurial environment of Mizoram State in India as a precursor to its economic development. Towards this objective, a survey is conducted among 250 entrepreneurs operating in the state to assess the macro and micro determinants of entrepreneurship using GEM indicators. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) is used for data analysis and as an outcome, four factors entrepreneurial motivation, social values, opportunities and capabilities and network emerge as significant determinants of entrepreneurship. Finally, the paper concludes with a model of entrepreneurship based on research findings.
  Keywords: entrepreneurship; protected region; limited infrastructure; GEM indicators; intrinsic variables; macro variables; Mizoram.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10032842
   
  
• ADOPTION OF DIGITAL MARKETING AMONG TOURISM INDUSTRY OF UTTARAKHAND IN INDIA  
  by Himanshu Kargeti, Anuj ., Rajesh Kumar Upadhyay, Ajay Sharma 
  Abstract: Tourism industry is an imperative segment in society, as it provides growth and support in economy and social life of most of the countries. Digitization has become imperative part of businesses now days. It has changed the working scenario of businesses and providing one the fastest platform to interact with customers. Digitization have brought significant transformation in Tourism industry. Digitization has transformed the role of Traditional tourism into update, innovative and technically upright industry. Our study attempts to find out the research gap by assessment of adaptability of digital marking in tourism industry and proposing a method to enhance digital marketing adaptability in organizations in tourism industry of Uttarakhand in India. This learning depicts the theoretical model and empirically attempts to find out the association between mentioned entities. For that we followed UTAUT theory.
  Keywords: Perceived Usefulness(PU); Perceived Ease of USE(PEOU); Competitive Pressure(CP); Attitude towards use of Digital marketing(ATDM); Behavioral Intention to Use(BIU); Uttarakhand Tourism.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10033064
   
  
• Using digital marketing from SMEs companies in the manufacturing industry in Albania.  
  by Irma Shyle, Erisjena Rruplli 
  Abstract: Marketing has been a challenge for the manufacturing industry worldwide because of its cost. The use of digital marketing is an area that is facing a lack of research on the manufacturing industry in Albania, so this study aims to identify how companies use the internet and digital channels in their marketing strategies. Managers and SME owners have the opportunity to know what digital marketing method can be effective for them, how to reach potential customers and be able to maximize their digital marketing and how to become more competitive. The study is valuable for marketers who can create a form that integrates digital marketing into existing traditional marketing in their organizations. The purpose of this study is to identify how small and medium-sized manufacturing companies in B2B use the Internet as a tool for digital marketing strategy and how they see the future development of Internet and digital channel use.
  Keywords: Digital marketing; SME; manufacturing industry; Albania.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10033236
   
  
• ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA IN GROWTH OF INDIAN START-UPS  
  by Devendra Kumar Pandey, Manoj Pandey, Kiran Soni 
  Abstract: The present research paper attempts to evaluate the social media's role in the growth of new start-ups. The study will also attempt to address the use for start-ups of various social media tools using variables such as relationship management, consumer behaviour data collection, product sales, market study and new product development. Research Methodology: Researchers have used descriptive research design for the study. Self-structured questionnaire was framed for collecting data from170 new entrepreneurs (respondents) in India. Both theoretical and practical data were obtained, and then analysed using SPSS. The research is carried out with the aid of tables and figures for easy understanding. Results: The research establishes that social media is expanding its reach in the industry rapidly, and has immense potential for the future. Start-ups are developing through adopting social media tools for increasing their market accessibility and also for increasing their sales through innovative ways offered by media.
  Keywords: Start-ups; Social Media; Market accessibility; Customer Relationship Management; Innovation.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10033368
   
  
• The Impact of Financial Risk on Economic Value Added: A Comparative Analysis of Islamic and Commercial Banks of Yemen  
  by Mohammed H. Alsamhi, Fuad A. Al-Ofairi, Waleed M. Alahdal, Najib H. S. Farhan 
  Abstract: The present study attempts to analyse the impact of financial risk on the economic value added (EVA) of Yemeni Islamic and commercial banks. The study is based on time series data for the period from 2006 to 2014. Findings indicate that financial risk has a significant impact on the EVA of Yemeni Islamic banks. Further, liquidity risk (LQR) and exchange risk (EXR) have a positive and significant effect on EVA. Moreover, LQR and EXR have a significant impact on the EVA, while credit and capital risk have an insignificant impact on the EVA of the Yemeni commercial banks.
  Keywords: Financial risk; Economic value added; Islamic banks; Commercial banks.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10033371
   
  
• THE INFLUENCE OF PERCEIVED RISK AND TRUST ON CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE: An empirical study on young m-banking app users in India  
  by Nancyprabha Pushparaj 
  Abstract: This paper describes the influence of seven risk factors on the mobile banking application customer experience (MBACE) by developing a theoretical model that focuses on the relationships with and without the mediating role of trust between seven risk factors and MBACE. This model was empirically tested using sample data obtained from m-banking users. The data analyzed using the structural equation modeling (SEM) method. The results revealed that not all the risks have a direct effect on MBACE, and trust has a mediating effect on MBACE. This research is one of the first of its kind to develop a conceptual model exclusively on m-banking app customer experience (MBACE) and empirically examine the impact of seven risk factors on it using the sample set obtained from India.
  Keywords: Customer experience; Risk facets; Mobile banking applications; Perceived risk; Security risk; Privacy risk; Young customers; Trust.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10033431
   
  
• Organizational Effectiveness and Career Support: an integrated model for Indian Millennials  
  by Nivedita Jha, Mayank B. Jha, Puja Sareen 
  Abstract: The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of organisational support for career development (OSCD) on organisational effectiveness (OE). It is a cross-sectional study based on responses collected from 252 millennial employees. The research perspective of this article is that when employees perceive the organisation's support in their career development, they reciprocate it with positive behaviour thus contributing to the overall effectiveness of the organization. The hypotheses on collected data were tested with the help of SEM. The results indicated a significant impact of organisational support for career development on organisational citizenship behaviour and organisational effectiveness. The research is limited to the IT companies in Bangalore city, India. The article is a major contribution to the literature in bridging the gap on the impact of organisational support for career development and organisational outcomes.
  Keywords: Career development; Organizational Support; Millennial; Organisational effectiveness; organisational citizenship behaviour; innovation; adaptability; productivity; SET; SEM.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10033484
   
  
• WORKPLACE ERGONOMICS AND QUALITY OF WORK LIFE IN ACADEMICIANS OF HIGHER EDUCATION: AN INDIAN PERSPECTIVE  
  by Amar Kumar, Pankaj Agarwal, Jitendra Chauhan, Vishal Sagar 
  Abstract: Academicians cater to a professional group who probably experience musculoskeletal problems due to vivid reasons such as prolonged sitting & conducting research work, evaluation, lecture preparation, administrative tasks, spending long hours on computer/laptop, less physical activity, standing for hours taking lectures and continuous pressure of advancing in career. Although, there are various reasons for musculoskeletal disorders, ergonomics play a pivotal role in increasing/decreasing it, effecting there QWL. Hence, this study intends to investigate the above relationship empirically. Data was gathered from academicians working in higher education institutions (HEI) of Uttarakhand, a northern province of India. Results reveal direct positive association between Workplace ergonomics and QWL. Even in the presence of mediating variable (Work related musculoskeletal disorders), the direct effect was found significant which means mediating effect is partial in nature.
  Keywords: Workplace Ergonomics; Musculoskeletal disorders; Quality of work life (QWL); Academicians; Higher education.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10033486
   
  
• Business Excellence Models (BEMs): A Critical Review of the Models' Frameworks  
  by Alaa Ubaid, Fikri Dweiri 
  Abstract: The objectives of this research are to identify the gaps and potential improvement areas in the frameworks of the predominant Business Excellence Models (BEMs) and to propose a future research agenda. The methodology used consists of three steps that are reviewing the predominant BEMs’ frameworks; analyse the reviewed frameworks based on the framework and the Excellent Performance Realisation Methodologies (EPRMs) elements proposed by Ubaid and Dweiri; then synthesize the results in the third step. The analysis of the literature confirmed the novelty of this research approach. The current research enhances the knowledge in the Business Excellence (BE) scope by identifying three gaps in the BEMs’ frameworks. The gaps include the gap related to the Tool Kit (TK) element, the gap related to the Performance Management system (PMs) element, and the gap related to the overlap between the elements of the excellence frameworks. Many future research areas suggested in this research.
  Keywords: Business excellence model; Framework; Methodology; Evaluation.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10033666
   
  
• Exploring Impact of Selected Marketing Strategies on the Consumer Lens.  
  by Majed Kassem Alsyani, Fatehi Almugari, Amgad S.D. Khaled, Eissa A. Al-Homaidi, Parul Bajaj 
  Abstract: This study aims at exploring the influence of marketing strategies on the consumer lens (brand favourability). The Exploratory Factor Analysis is used to construct some of marketing strategies. Forty-nine items, about marketing strategies were inserted into SPSS. Out of 49 items, only 26 items were selected under five factors. The validity and reliability were tested using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA).Convenience sampling method was used to approach the respondents. The Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was used to test the hypotheses. The study found that product innovation strategy, intensive distribution strategy, and customer value-based pricing have a significant and positive impact on the consumer lens (brand favourability). Besides, the study found that the labelling strategy has a significant and negative impact on the consumer lens (brand favourability). The study provides researchers, marketers, and managers with an important glance about factors affecting consumers' brand favourability in Yemeni market.
  Keywords: Consumer lens (brand favourability); EFA; CFA; SEM; Intensive Distribution; Product Innovation; Customer Value-Based Pricing; Labelling.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10033883
   
  
• Minerba Governance Policy in Indonesia with Soft System Thinking Approach Based on Social Network Analysis, Seven-Stage Model and U Theory  
  by Sujono , Soesilo Zauhar, Hermawan , Lely Indah Mindarti 
  Abstract: To map mineral and coal policies by analysing the law and produce research novelty on mineral and coal governance policies in Indonesia with a soft-systems thinking approach based on and social network analysis, sevenstage model and U Theory. The results of the SNA analysis show that Mining Law No. 4/2009 is too specific and governed by conversations about IUP and IUPK production operations. This is influenced by the environment (environment) which is still limited publication of scientific articles showing the enrichment of SSM with listening methods in U Theory, especially the real world stage in the framework of enrichment methodologies to produce research novelty in the study of systems thinking. The authenticity of this research is the concept of SNA, SSM and U Theory in the Mining Law research.
  Keywords: Social Network Analysis; sustainable mining policy.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10033997
   
  
• Assessment of Transfer of Training and Organizational Commitment Scales  
  by D. Armstrong Doss 
  Abstract: There is enormous scope and potential for the growth of training industry. With continuous influx of work force year after year, there is an inadvertent need to endow the workforce with the requisite Knowledge, Skills and Attitude necessitated for the job. This research is carried out to understand the concept of transfer of training and its association with organizational commitment. The study employs Learning Transfer System Inventory (LTSI) scale and organizational commitment scale (OCS) to analyse the training and development practices in Indian manufacturing and service industry. For the various scales and sub-scales employed in the study reliability analysis was performed . Confirmatory factor analysis was carried out to assess the degree to which the data meets the expected structure. The outcomes were tabulated and inferences show a good model fit. Further future prospects for research in this direction are contemplated.
  Keywords: Transfer of training; Organisational commitment; Reliability; Confirmatory factor analysis.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10034079
   
  
• The Link between Self-Knowledge and Job Satisfaction.  
  by Leandro Pereira, André Salgado, Carlos Jeronimo, Renato Lopes Da Costa, Álvaro Dias, José Santos 
  Abstract: Self-knowledge is a very prominent theme as it is one of the strong drivers for the skills acquisition and personal and professional evolution In this experimental study, self-knowledge and its relationship with job satisfaction were investigated in a group of sixteen top and middle managers of a management consulting company operating in the Iberian Peninsula, by applying a 360 methodology through application of questionnaires to the collaborator and his/her sphere composed by superior, subordinate and family/friend To quantify self-knowledge, it was measured the Euclidean distance between the answers of the questionnaires, thus measuring the dissimilarity answers between the collaborator and the respective sphere The results indicate an association between self-knowledge and job satisfaction.
  Keywords: Self-knowledge; Job satisfaction; 360 evaluation; Euclidean distance.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10034212
   
  
• Unearthing the Determinants of Commuters’ Satisfaction in Delhi Metro Rail Corporation  
  by YOGENDRA P.A.L. BHARADWAJ  
  Abstract: The purpose behind this research investigation is to unearth the major determinants of service quality and their outcome on commuters’ satisfaction which stimulate them for the commutation process of metro services in Delhi Metro Rail Corporation In the nature of extensive purposive sampling approach based on a five-point Likert scale, data was collected from 850 commuters’ travelling from DMRC with the help of a self-administered questionnaire and using a structural equation modeling to validate the importance of the research model The findings of this study revealed that empathy & security and assurance are the two major predictors of commuters’ friendliness and significant determinant for commuters' satisfaction It likewise featured that the higher the commuters' friendliness approach among commuters' the lesser will be their fulfillment with the current metro service quality framework and higher reliability of metro outline will prompt expanded inclusion of the commutation system.
  Keywords: Service Quality; Delhi Metro Rail Corporation; Commuter Satisfaction; Commuters’ Friendliness; Organisational Image.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10034303
   
  
• Re-Creation Fundamental Concepts on the Culture of Excellence to Achieve Maturity of Organisational Excellence  
  by Mohammad Reza Fathi, Mohsen Moradi-Moghadam, Hossein Safari, Mohammad Reza Sadeghi Moghadam 
  Abstract: The aim of this paper is to investigate the principles affecting the culture of excellence by examining the literature review of quality culture, Organisational culture, and Excellence culture, and eight effective concepts have been developed on the culture of excellence. In this Paper, survey results and literature review were summed up in 8 essential concepts of BEMs. The structural model was developed using the ISM approach. This method enables individuals and groups to decide complex relationships between a large numbers of elements in a complex situation and act as tools for organising and complexity of relationships between variables. As a result, there will be a need to move from common tools and techniques of Quality Management. Managers’ endeavour must be around building a new culture around quality. This brings researchers to the importance of a strong Excellence Culture, but the principles of this culture are not agreed on.
  Keywords: Culture of Excellence (CoE); Business Excellence Models (BEMs); Quality Culture (QC); Total Quality Management (TQM); Interpretative Structural Modelling (ISM).
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10034305
   
  
• The Trade-Off between Outreach and Sustainability of Microfinance Institutions: Does Loan Delinquency Play a Mediating Role?  
  by Mohammad Zainuddin, Abu Saad Md Masnun Al Mahi, Ida Md. Yasin, Shabiha Akter 
  Abstract: The outreach-sustainability trade-off in microfinance is often attributed to the high transaction cost of small loans. But does loan delinquency play any role? Is there any relationship between delinquency and poverty level of borrowers? In microfinance, loan delinquency is a key concern, as poor borrowers lack collateral and microfinance institutions (MFIs) face information asymmetry which may lead to problems of adverse selection and moral hazard. This paper empirically examines the relationship between microfinance outreach and sustainability, and the role of loan delinquency in that relationship. Through a rigorous quantitative analysis of a global dataset of microfinance firms, the study confirms that MFI sustainability comes at the expense of outreach and there is a trade-off between the two goals. It demonstrates the mediating role of loan delinquency in the outreach-sustainability relationship and indicates that poor clients, compared to not-so-poor, have high delinquency rates that negatively affect the financial performance of MFIs.
  Keywords: microfinance; outreach; sustainability; loan delinquency; portfolio at risk; information asymmetry.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10034356
   
  
• “Demystifying the Relationship between Enablers and Results at Sub-criteria level: An Empirical Study on EFQM model”  
  by Narasimha Murthy, Kuldip Singh Sangwan, N.S. Narahari 
  Abstract: The purpose of this article is to assess the interrelations between the EFQM model’s enablers and results at the sub-criteria level. The multi-collinearity issue is addressed using a factorial analysis of DOE techniques for identifying the primary factors influencing the results. The primary data for the study is taken from the assessment scores of 58 Indian companies used for EFQM award program. The factorial analysis is primarily used for data analysis. The research has identified the primary influencing factors at the sub-criteria level for the customer, people, society, and business performance improvement. The few and critical enablers identified in the research would serve managers and organisations as a guide for effective deployment of the EFQM model and focussed prioritisation for the improvement. The study has also demystified the assumptions regarding interlinkages/inter-connections among sub-criteria of the EFQM model to improve organisational results.
  Keywords: EFQM; Factorial Analysis; DOE; Demystifying of EFQM; Empirical Research; Result Criteria; Influencing factors; Business Excellence.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10034481
   
  
• A tactical three-phase implementation model for agile manufacturing  
  by Rahul Kumar, Kanwarpreet Singh, Sanjiv Jain 
  Abstract: Increasing globalization, uncertain environment, swift technological development, and competitive pressures force organisations to adopt different practices and tools to improve manufacturing processes. This paper aims to propose a phase-wise implementation model of all necessary measures to achieve successful agile manufacturing implementation. Tactical modelling is used employing options field methodology (OFM), options profile methodology (OPM), analytic hierarchy process (AHP), and fuzzy set theory (FST). Initially, various agile manufacturing implementation-related issues and business performance-related issues are listed after conducting a survey. OFM is used to convert business performance-related issues into options, which are further converted into six clusters. OPM has converted agile manufacturing implementation-related issues into eight profiles or courses of action. Further, AHP is used to calculate the weights of various profiles generated through OPM. At last, clusters formed through OFM techniques, are ranked using FST. Finally, a phase-wise implementation plan has been proposed for the successful implementation of agile manufacturing.
  Keywords: agile manufacturing; business performance enhancement; options field methodology; options profile methodology; analytic hierarchy process; and fuzzy set theory.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10034522
   
  
• Market Knowledge Acquisition and Sustaining Firm Performance: An Approach towards Business Excellence  
  by Manoj Kumar, Pooja K. Singh 
  Abstract: At present, managing and sustaining performance has become a challenge for organisations, where environment forces (enabling and restraining) are continuously interacting and results as dynamic, uncertain and unforeseen contexts. Knowledge optimization plays a significant role in managing and synchronizing core business practices which can be ensured by linking its source and deployment to sustain long term business performance. The present study aims to explore the linkage among market knowledge acquisition, firm innovation and performance. Theoretical pieces of evidence, relevant research work and arguments have been retraced from e-database/sources such as Google scholar, EBSCOHost, ScienceDirect, ProQuest, etc. using a systematic review method. This study adds value to knowledge literature, by offering insights into the knowledge sourcing aspect and exploring how it enhances innovation practices for the purpose of sustaining organisational performance. This study inferences, limitations, and future opportunities have also been discussed.
  Keywords: Market Knowledge Acquisition; Innovation; Firm Performance; Business Excellence; Knowledge Management.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10034594
   
  
• Brand Personification through Celebrity Ambassador: A Study to Investigate the Impact on Consumer Attitude and Loyalty  
  by Era Nagpal, Hardeep Singh Mundi, Anurag Singh 
  Abstract: The advent of technology has redefined marketing in the 21st century driven by the rise of digital networks, which are instrumental in creating an enhanced brand experience for the consumers. While the businesses are competing for the attention of consumers, the humanization of a brand referred to as Brand Personification is being extensively used for creating differentiation especially in the FMCG sector. The subjectivity among consumers makes it important for marketers to have a comprehensive understanding of the concept of consumer attitude and loyalty. This study aims to examine the influence of brand personification using brand personality scale on consumer attitude and loyalty using bivariate analysis. The findings of the study reveal that both consumer attitude and loyalty are impacted significantly by brand personality. The positive response of consumers to celebrity endorsements personifying a brand leaves an implication for the marketers to exploit this strategy to fight the tough competition.
  Keywords: Brand Personification; Brand Personality; Consumer Attitude; Brand Trust; Brand Affection; Consumer Attitudinal Loyalty; Consumer Behavioural Loyalty.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10034734
   
  
• Exploring the role of Experience, Experience Intensification on Autobiographical Memory and Nostalgia and Behavioural Intention- A Theory driven approach.  
  by Issac Johny, Sivakumar VJ 
  Abstract: The objective of the research work is analysing post consumption evaluations and influences of experience intensification, memory and nostalgia experience and behavioural intention in theme park research. By the theory driven approach, this study explores the Consumers’ overall experience and experience intensification on their memory, nostalgia and behavioural intension. Samples have been collected from 355 theme park visitors from Tamil Nadu. Structural equation modelling and process macros were used for testing the hypothesis. Finding confirmed that the consumers’ overall experience has positively influences experience intensification and experience intensification has positive effect on memory and nostalgia and both influences behavioural intention. Conclusion of the study provide valuable insights to the practitioners. Suggestions for future research work is also given.
  Keywords: Autobiographical Memory; Nostalgia; Customer Memory; Experience Intensification; Customer Experience.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10034786
   
  
• SPIRITUAL MARKETING AND ENTREPRENEURIAL ORIENTATION AS THE DETERMINANT OF INNOVATIVE CAPABILITY WITH MARKETING CAPABILITY MODERATION  
  by Ahmad Bambang, Andriani Kusumawati, Umar Nimran, Suharyono  
  Abstract: The purpose of this study is to examine and analyze the effect of Increasing Spiritual Marketing and Entrepreneurial Orientation on Innovation Capability with moderating variables Marketing Capability at PT Pertamina (Persero) Indonesia. Data analysis was performed using a statistical method known as the Multi-Group SEM analysis model with the GeSCA Approach. The population of this study consisted of 3,207 regional marketing offices (UPMS) and spread throughout the company PT. Pertamina (Persero). Increased Marketing Capabilities can strengthen the influence of the Entrepreneurial Orientation relationship on Innovation Capabilities. Novelty in this study lies in the marketing ability variable as a spiritual marketing moderation and Entrepreneurial Orientation towards Innovation Capability. In addition, this research also reconstructs or develops a more comprehensive model of the company's Innovation Capability concept by including Spiritual Marketing and Entrepreneurial Orientation as explanatory variables.
  Keywords: Spiritual Marketing; Entrepreneurial Orientation; Innovation Capability; Marketing Capability. SEM Multigroup with GeSCA approach.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10034863
   
  
• Framework for Enablers and Outcomes of Workforce Agility : Socio Technical Systems Perspective  
  by Deborah Sharon Stanley, Vaneeta Aggarwal 
  Abstract: Organizations in this fast driven market environment have felt the need to be flexible and change driven This has brought the importance of agility in the workforce Agile workforce exhibits the characteristics of adaptability, flexibility and innovativeness that works with speed and competitiveness Workforce agility is considered as a key to organizational agility (Breu et al , 2002) We aim to address this issue by bringing out the various enablers of workforce agility along with the outcomes The enablers of workforce agility are categorized based on the socio-technical system as individual and social, technological and organizational perspectives In a socio-technical system, the behavior of the workforce, environment in which they work, machinery and technologies adopted in the organization as well as the systems, strategies, practices followed in the organization should work in unison towards achievement of the objectives This conceptual paper reviews the literature on workforce agility to build framework.
  Keywords: Workforce Agility; Workforce Agility Enablers; Socio-Technical Systems; Workforce Agility Outcomes.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10034882
   
  
• Learning factories of Industry 4.0: a mind map-based empirical investigation of the challenges related to its implementation  
  by Anil Kumar, Sanjiv Narula, Harish Puppala, Maheswar Dwivedy, Surya Prakash, Vishal Talwar 
  Abstract: The learning factory is an emerging 'hands-on' approach to teach advanced manufacturing technologies It facilitates establishing a connection between the industry and academia Its need is felt by both the industry and academia alike, whereby both could address the challenges and meet each other's demands This study aims to identify the key challenges in implementing a learning factory in the I4 0 arena Since no past research worked addressed the challenges associated with learning factory, participatory expert surveys are chosen to identify the key challenges Industry leaders, policymakers, trainers, and academicians are made as the participants of the conducted survey to collect the broad perspective of individuals at various levels The expert’s feedback is synthesized in the mind map depicting n = 20 challenges in the implementation of the learning factories Furthermore, the evaluation of interrelation between the identified challenges is carried out by the Fuzzy DEMATEL technique used.
  Keywords: Learning factories; Digitization; Industry 4.0; Education; Fuzzy DEMATEL.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10034930
   
  
• A multi objective optimization of sustainable business model innovation strategies regarding the challenges of new and emerging technologies in service business  
  by Hadi Balouei Jamkhaneh, Reza Shahin, Reza Jalali 
  Abstract: The main purpose of this study is to provide a framework for selecting an effective and efficient strategy to reduce the challenges of Sustainable Business Models Innovation (SBMI). Firstly, a review of the literature on a set of SBMI strategies and challenges is done, then by using the Kano model, SBMI strategies are classified. After this, the effectiveness of each strategy in reducing the challenges of SBMI is determined by using the Quality Function Deployment (QFD) model. Next, due to resource constraints and implementation costs of each strategy, Multi-Objective Decision Making (MODM) was used to select the optimal strategies. The results show that encourage sufficiency (S4), repurpose for society or the environment (S5) and sustainability vision (S10) were selected as the optimal strategies.
  Keywords: Sustainable Business Innovation; Sustainable Business Strategies; Sustainable Business Challenges; Service Business; Multi-Objective Model; Quality Function Deployment (QFD); Kano Model.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10034931
   
  
• Political Risk and Project Success: Mediating Mechanism and Interacting Effect  
  by Namra Mubarak, Jabran Khan, Jamshed Ali Turi, Robina Yasmin 
  Abstract: Complexities bring risks in projects. Political risk involves political instability in project domain, and lessens the chances of return on investment. In this study, we aim to investigate the impact of the political risk on project success. Data were collected from project-based organisations (information technology, construction and other developmental projects) operating in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to test model fitness. Results of the study suggest that political risk has astounding effect on project industry and negatively effects manager’s stress resulting in project failure. But, if there is some risk avoidance strategy against political risk adopted by the manger, then the stress of the manager will also be lessened with less chances of project failure. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
  Keywords: political risk; risk avoidance; projects; manager’s stress; project success.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10035037
   
  
• Antecedents of Indian information technology service organisations moving up the value chain: a mediation model  
  by Mahendramohan Balathandayuthapani, Kannabiran Ganesan, P. Sridevi 
  Abstract: Automation and competition are challenging the Indian information technology (IT) service organisations. Significant portions of the revenue earned by Indian IT service organisations come from the low end of the value chain. Technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) are expected to automate these low value-added services. Many other low-cost locations are emerging as competitors for the Indian IT industry. New technologies also offer scope for high-value services. This study proposes a theoretical model based on the resource-based view to understand the phenomenon of moving up the value chain in IT services. Data collected from 230 employees of Indian IT service organisations were analysed using structural equation modelling. The results show that the relationship management capability and the project management capability of the IT service organisation improve the quality of the service provided, which in turn enables the organisation to move up the value chain of IT services.
  Keywords: relationship management; project management; service quality; moving-up value chain; information technology service; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10035222
   
  
• Structural Equation modelling of factors enforcing Indian Small and Medium scale organizations to implement Green manufacturing  
  by Mahakdeep Singh, Kanwarpreet Singh, Amanpreet Singh Sethi 
  Abstract: The manuscript is focused on identifying various pressures on Indian small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) for implementation of green manufacturing and finding that currently which pressure has been effecting implementation the most. To accomplish the purpose, questionnaire was designed with inputs from literature and responses have been obtained from 168 Indian SMEs based on the questionnaire. Three hypotheses were proposed related to the objective of the study and the received responses were analysed by employing partial least square-structural equation modelling. It has been found after SEM analysis that the green manufacturing practices is being implemented in Indian SMEs due to two major pressures that is government pressure and customers pressure whereas there is least effect of social pressure on Indian SMEs.
  Keywords: green manufacturing; small and medium enterprises; partial least square-structural equational modelling.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10035039
   
  
• Interpersonal relationship inventory scale for registered nurses in India: EFA and Scale development.  
  by Puja Khatri, Sumit K. Debnath 
  Abstract: The purpose of the study was to develop a scale to measure interpersonal relationship at the workplace of the registered nurses working on large-scale hospital setup. The paper tries to develop interpersonal relationship inventory scale and further factor analysis was performed. A methodology study design consists of two phases was used. In the first phase qualitative study was conducted which results in the identification of 59 items, which was further followed by the field testing among 250 registered nurses. In the second phase factor analysis was performed. The factor analysis shows that KMO measure of sampling adequacy is 0.832 with a Chi-square = 820.486, p < 0.001. Four factors obtained which accounted for the 53.546% of the total variance. The total scale reliability was found to be 0.783. The study concludes with the development of the 15 item interpersonal relationship scale inventory.
  Keywords: nurses; interpersonal relationship; IPR; factor analysis; reliability.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10035226
   
  
• Stakeholder Perception on the challenges in long term PPP Contracts: A focus group study of Indian PPP Airports.  
  by Akhil Damodaran, Tarun Dhingra, Prasoom Dwivedi 
  Abstract: Public-private partnership in airports is not a new phenomenon. With the development of 5 major airports and new upcoming airports in India, PPP has become a tool for project implementation in airports. Public perception, as well as stakeholder’s perception regarding the PPP execution, is highly positive. However, it is observed that the conflict between the airport operator and regulator increases as the contract starts to take shape. Long term contracts are always incomplete and this creates conflict between the government and private operators in terms of each other’s incentives. With these questions in mind, the paper offers an assessment of the perception of stakeholders of the airport sector through eight focus groups discussions about the challenges in the contract design of PPP. The analysis resulted in four themes of relevance. Broad themes are the Viability of the project, the bidding process, risk allocation, and price regulation.
  Keywords: regulation; contract management; stakeholders; public-private partnership; PPP; till regulation.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10035227
   
  
• Bond Rating and Bond Market of Indian Corporate - Issues and Recommendations  
  by MANISHA KUMARI, V. Mary Jessica 
  Abstract: Financing plays vital role in every organisation. Over past one decade, all countries wanted to strengthen the bond market. The value of the firm is directly associated with the proportion of debt present in the capital. The value can be increased and overall cost of capital can be decreased by increasing capital financing through bonds. Yet, Indian corporate bonds have a negligible share in the global bond market. This paper explores the bond market and rating of the bonds provided by different credit rating agencies (CRAs). This will also explain the policy and regulations made by regulators for bond market and bond rating. The result shows that CRAs need to strengthen the rating procedure to reduce the PDs and survival in the market. The PDs must be predicated by CRA for each bond and need to be disclosed publicly. Based on reports, bond data, default history and literature, this paper gives recommendations to strengthen the corporate bond market. Due to the constant default of rated bonds, the CRAs are criticised for their inability to predict PD. Also, the change in rating has an impact on stock prices there is need to give proper evidence with the factors.
  Keywords: bond market; bond rating; corporate bond; credit risk; probability of default; stock price; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10035386
   
  
• Risk analysis in Banks: A comparison of Islamic and conventional banks in Jordan  
  by Abdullah Aldaas, Moid U. Ahmad, Rashed Mohamad Salameh 
  Abstract: Islamic banks are different from conventional banks considering funding types, financing costs and the operational processes. They also differ in compliance and risk management processes. Thus, hybrid economic systems are a challenge for central banks as well as financial institutions. The research paper is focused on comparative risk assessment amongst Islamic and conventional banks in Jordan. With a focus on credit risk, operational risk, bank size and CAMEL framework, the study uses panel data for the time period 2012 to 2017 for 13 conventional banks and three Islamic banks. The study found Islamic banks to be better managed in terms of risk management rather than conventional banks and operational risk was found to be best fitted to analyse performance of a bank. Also, a vector auto regression system at an optimum lag of 4 was found to be best suited to model performance of a bank based on credit risk, operational risk and size.
  Keywords: risk analysis; liquidity risk; credit risk; operational risk; Islamic banks; CAMEL framework; Jordan.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10035390
   
  
• The Tri-Dimensional Thriving Scale (TTS): Measurement and Construct Validity  
  by Tahira Hassan Butt, GHULAM ABID, Alia Ahmed 
  Abstract: Thriving is not merely a psychological or physical state or trait; it is rather a
  Keywords: tri-dimensional thriving; construct development; convergent validity; discriminant validity.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10035475
   
  
• Factors affecting non-aeronautic revenue in Indian airports: A focus group study of Indian PPP Airports  
  by Akhil Damodaran, Deep Shree, Pushpendra Pratap Singh, Mahim Sagar, Tarun Dhingra 
  Abstract: The Indian aviation industry is advancing rapidly, and non-aeronautical revenues are a critical component of airport businesses. Therefore, airport operators must devise creative strategies to improve the share of non-aeronautical revenue in the Indian airport sector. The purpose of this study is to explore factors that impact the development of non-aeronautical revenue businesses in the context of the Indian airport sector. A qualitative focus group discussion was conducted in this study in which experts from the aviation sector were included. Based on the discussion, four broad themes that influence non-aeronautical revenue generation, namely regulations business models, products and customers. The results of the research indicated a necessity for the development of non-aeronautical sources of revenue and functions as the base for further exploration for not only the Indian aviation sector but also for other emerging economies struggling with similar issues.
  Keywords: non-aeronautic revenue; airport revenue; aviation industry; focus group research; business and government.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10035478
   
  
• Relationship Between Curiosity and Thriving at Work: Implications for Constructive Voice Behavior  
  by GHULAM ABID, Alia Ahmed, Tehmina Qazi, Saira Ahmed, Talat Islam 
  Abstract: Soliciting and incorporating the constructive voice of employees is very essential for a competitive edge of an organisation. We tested that thriving employees and employees with high curiosity are more prone to constructive voice behaviour. Data were collected in two waves over a two-month time period from multiple sources, i.e., 421 employees and 280 supervisors and managers working in diverse service organisations. The findings of our research support the notion that thriving and curiosity are important predictors whereas, increase in incivility restrains voice behaviours. We have discussed the strengths, practical implications, as also the directions for future research on constructive voice behaviour.
  Keywords: curiosity; thriving at work; incivility; constructive voice behaviour; CVB.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10035524
   
  
• Is E-Payment Gateway System Sustainable in India? - Analysis through Interpretive Structural Model Approach  
  by DEEPA JAIN, Manoj Kumar Dash, K.S. Thakur 
  Abstract: Globally, digital payment has been seen as a common feature of developed countries. A gap was witnessed in literature regarding identification of the most critical variables in e-payment and development of model for the sustainability of e-payment. The purpose of present study is to fill this gap, by identifying and model the critical factors influencing e-payment sustainability. To inquire the sustainability of e-payment gateway system interpretive structural model (ISM) and cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) analysis has been used to develop structural model. Results of the study shows that behavioural intention, compatibility, trialability, trust, security, perceived cost and other factors play a significant role in commitment of consumer towards e-payment. The findings of the study will guide government, corporates and policy makers while framing strategies and policies for the sustainability of digital payment a cashless move in India.
  Keywords: electronic payment; sustainable portfolio strategy; accessibility strategy; value proposition strategy; ISM-MICMAC; technology adoption.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10035609
   
  
• UNDERSTANDING CUSTOMER SATISFACTION AND LOYALTY IN INDIAN RETAIL SECTOR: An Empirical Study  
  by Amgad S.D. Khaled, Fatehi Almugari, Borhan Omar Ahmed Al-dalaien, Abdulmalek M. M. Saeed, Khalid Alomari 
  Abstract: The main objective of this paper is to determine elements which can lead to customer satisfaction and their loyalty. In this analysis, the expectancy principle of vroom is used for the conceptual model and the results are discussed. Data was taken using the snowball sampling method by circulating a self-administered questionnaire and an online questionnaire to the respondents. Data has been collected from different places in Aligarh, Delhi/NCR Region. Both SPSS version 23 and AMOS 25.0 were used to analyse the data. To test the hypotheses, the structural equation modelling was used. The study found that price, and service have a positive impact on customer satisfaction. The study suggests a close association between price, quality of service and quality of product and consumer satisfaction and a directly beneficial effect on customer loyalty.
  Keywords: strategy; hypermarkets; satisfaction; loyalty; retail marketing; price strategy; customer; value; brand; store image.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10035610
   
  
• Impact Analysis of Global COVID-19 Crisis  
  by VINAY KANDPAL 
  Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has a devastating effect, globally, on working hours and earnings. International Labour Organization (ILO) highlighted that some of the worst industries and regions affected and proposes measures to alleviate the crisis. The most at-risk sectors include accommodation, food services, manufacturing, retail, aviation, business and administrative activities. The eventual increase in global unemployment over 2020 would depend significantly on future developments and policy behaviour. There is a high probability that the end-of-year figure, of 25 million, would be substantially higher than the initial ILO forecast. Many countries have taken strong measures for controlling the unemployment issue and protecting the financial market.
  Keywords: COVID-19; unemployment; financial market; economy; International Labour Organization; ILO.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10035976
   
  
• Behavioural Branding of Frugal Innovations Contextual to Consumption Dynamics: A Study of Market Competitiveness in Micro Enterprises  
  by Ananya Rajagopal 
  Abstract: This study analyses the attributes of market competition through in-depth analysis of buying behaviour of consumers in the consumption of frugal innovation products/services offered by micro enterprises (MEs) in emerging markets. Customer-acquisition dynamics implemented by MEs in developing behavioural branding has also been discussed in this study. Attributes such as consumer behaviour, co-creation, and behavioural branding traits and their interrelationship with the consumption of frugal innovative products has been analysed in this study. Data was collected from 322 purposively selected respondents, the consumers of innovative products and services developed by micro enterprises, within Mexico. A systematic process of application of focus group has been implemented in the study. In view of the findings discussed in the study, it can be stated that frugal innovations demonstrate cost-effective entrepreneurial econoscape. The study reveals that crowdsourcing contributes significantly to idea generation for innovative products to cater to the consumer needs and deliver solutions.
  Keywords: behavioural branding; frugal innovation; micro enterprises; consumption dynamics; market competitiveness.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036039
   
  
• Assessing The Effectiveness of Psychological Capital and Employee Engagement Being Moderator and Mediator on Employee Emotional Intelligence and Performance  
  by Bilal Khalid, Jasim Tariq, Muddassar Sarfraz, Taqadus Bashir, Ilknur Ozturk 
  Abstract: In the last few decades, the hospitality industry has got much importance in a vigorous process of expansion. Consequently, the hospitality industry is expanding globally and promoting its growth in a changing multicultural environment. The primary objective of the present study is to reveal the conditional indirect effect of employees’ emotional intelligence on their job performance through a moderated-mediated mechanism of psychological capital and employee engagement. The data has been collected from 300 employees working in the hospitality industry. Data is analysed by using statistical software SPSS and PROCESS macro. The study results suggest that employee engagement plays a significant and positive role between employees’ emotional intelligence and performance. Results also indicate that moderated-mediated mechanism exists between employees’ emotional intelligence and employees’ performance. This study contributes significantly to hospitality industry literature by identifying employee emotional intelligence as one of the significant factors of workplace performance.
  Keywords: emotional intelligence; psychological capital; hospitality industry; employees performance; Pakistan.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036087
   
  
• Corona Virus Pandemic: Entrepreneurial Orientation and its influence on Firm Performance  
  by P.S. Rajeswari, P. Suganthi 
  Abstract: In this competitive scenario the software startups are galloping as their products and services are essential for improving global economy. Present juncture of corona pandemic crisis with sudden deep pitfall of economy, also disturbed the software startups growth alarmingly. Healthcare, video meetings, online sales delivery services and other online related services like artificial intelligence in emergency room, virtual reality boomed well but when it is on software industry it created pitfall in growth. This study would be rejuvenating to improve the performance of software startups. This research focuses on investigating and identifying factors influencing software firm performance by studying the link between entrepreneurial orientation as stimuli in the presence of control variable and field moderator activities. Thus this paper focuses to analyse the impact of multi-dimensionality concept of entrepreneurial orientation on firm performance in Indian software industry. Autonomy and proactiveness under entrepreneurial orientation are emerged as major stimuli for instigating the firm performance through the factors called human capital, firm size, social performance and efficiency. Strategies are suggested to incorporate in the current contingent situation to revitalise and fortify the performance of software startups.
  Keywords: entrepreneurial orientation; firm performance; autonomy; proactiveness; human capital; firm size; social performance and efficiency.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036161
   
  
• Factor structure of Managerial Competencies, Training Need Assessment and Employee Productivity of mid-level Information Technology managers using Principal Component Analysis  
  by Manoj Kumar Dash, Gayatri Panda 
  Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to determine different factors of managerial competencies, TNA and employee productivity. Second, to consider the implications of such competencies and develop a conceptual framework among middle-level managers working in IT sector using PCA. The paper divided the study in two phases: First identification of competencies from the existing literature and validated scales, identification of variables of training need assessment and variables of employee productivity. Second, through Principal Component analysis (PCA) technique and Correlation analysis, the data was analyzed on a total of 412 valid responses collected during the data collection phase using a structured questionnaire. The authors used SPSS 20.0 to perform the analysis and reach to findings of the study. The identified competencies are dynamism and client oriented approach, acceptability towards change, delegation and team building, supportive environment risk management, ICT administration. Therefore, competency based training technique develop strategies to utilise the competencies of employees for organisational growth and minimisation of wasted efforts for achieving maximum benefit and results.
  Keywords: managerial competencies; training need assessment; employee productivity; information technology; sector; PCA; correlation.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036165
   
  
• Identification and Recognition of Factors Affecting Brand Skill (Case study of IMIDRO: Iranian Mines and Mining Industries Development and Renovation Organization)  
  by Fatemeh Haghverdi Zadeh, Ali Kazemi, Azarnoush Ansari 
  Abstract: Consumers’ perception of the skill acquired as a result of using goods and services depends to a great extent on the value created by the organisation. The ability of organisations in creating value is not just relied on their tangible assets, but the use of intangible assets creates their main power of value creation, among which brand is one of the most valuable assets that its consideration and management leads to achieving a positive viewpoint in the minds of customers. The present study aims to identify the factors affecting brand skill. This study was conducted using qualitative method through semi structured interviews with 18 managers and experts active in IMIDRO. The data obtained from the interviews were analysed by theme analysis method and finally, the factors affecting brand skill were identified in the form of four main themes of causal factors, underlying factors, features and outcomes.
  Keywords: brand; brand skill; steel industry; Iran.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036166
   
  
• Performance analysis of the footwear manufacturing assembly line: A case study using value stream mapping-simulation modeling (VSM-SM)  
  by Hiluf Reda, Akshay Dvivedi 
  Abstract: This research aims to analyse footwear manufacturing assembly lines’ performance and increase its production by maximising the measurement of performances like throughput and resource utilisation with a case study. A shoe model with 46 components has been selected from the case company. The study starts with VSM to visualise the process flow, identify the production status, and any potential alerts. A discrete event simulation model is used to analyse precisely the manufacturing system’s actual performance without disturbing the real system. After analysing the collected data using the Arena input analyser, a simulation model was developed, verified, validated, and run for 40 replications. Six proposed alternative solutions have experimented with Arena simulation software, and the best alternative solution results in improvement of output from 191 to 278 and from 174 to 536, line balance efficiency from 68.3% to 90.1%, and from 17.6% to 76% in stitching and lasting assembly lines, respectively.
  Keywords: value stream mappping; simulation-modelling; performance analysis; footwear; manufacturing assembly line; Ethiopia.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036245
   
  
• The Role Of Good Corporate Governance As The Effect Of Planning Function And Coordination Function On Company Performance  
  by Benny Wendry, Umar Nimran, Hamidah Nayati Utami, Tri Wulida Afrianty 
  Abstract: This study aims to test, analyse and explain the effect of the planning and coordination functions on good corporate governance (GCG), and the influence of good corporate governance (GCG) on firm performance. This study uses a survey method with a quantitative approach and the principle of single blind. The population in this study are all organisations in the form of holding companies, subsidiaries, and affiliated companies in the Semen Indonesia Group and operating in Indonesia. Respondents in this study were 184 people. The results of the study indicate that there is a significant influence between the planning function on GCG, the coordination function on GCG, and GCG on firm performance. The development of the firm performance model is basically the alignment of the resource-based view (RBV) theory to companies in Indonesia, especially PT Semen Indonesia. This is the renewed idea or ideas that become the novelty of this research.
  Keywords: good corporate governance; GCG; planning function; coordination function; firm performance; PLS.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036246
   
  
• Lean and Green Lean: Literature Review and Research Agenda  
  by GURUDUTT NAYAK, Amol Dhaigude, Debmallya Chatterjee 
  Abstract: The need to adopt sustainable practices and environmentally friendly products has compelled organisations to redefine their existing processes and adopt lean and green concepts to attain sustainability. This paper conducts a literature review of existing lean and green concepts in literature to identify gaps and thus, provide new direction for research. The paper presents a concept map with seven research areas comprising of different functions and industries. It outlines potential areas of future research so as to throw more light on how organisations can adopt green and lean practices for sustainable development. It also seeks to provide inputs to industry practitioners and aid them to design strategies for effectively adopt lean and green concepts.
  Keywords: lean; green lean; performance; small and medium enterprises; literature review; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036286
   
  
• Development and Validation of a Scale for Measuring City Image  
  by Alok Acharya, Zillur Rahman 
  Abstract: This paper seeks to advance a valid and reliable scale for measuring the city image of Jaipur (India) from the perspective of foreign tourists especially travelled for leisure purpose. This instrument was designed in two stages. The first stage included a comprehensive literature review and qualitative interviews with academics and city administrators. The second stage involved a survey of 271 international tourists and use of quantitative techniques (i.e., EFA, CFA and SEM). The predictive validity of the proposed scale with respect to tourists’ satisfaction was also analysed using SEM and it positively predicted satisfaction. The proposed scale comprised three cognitive and one affective factor with 13 items. This is a first study to propose a scale of city image in Indian context and also makes a distinctive effort to develop a scale especially focussed on foreign leisure tourists. Thus contributes significantly to existing literature.
  Keywords: city image; scale development; tourism research; city branding.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036358
   
  
• Exploration of factors for promoting women-owned digital enterprises: A conceptual viewpoint  
  by Sucheta Agarwal, VIVEK AGRAWAL, Jitendra Kumar 
  Abstract: Regardless of the glass ceiling effect and the question of flexible jobs, women entrepreneurs continue to enter the entrepreneurship sector. There has been more research into this field and woman entrepreneurs can be seen as the latest trend for women’s empowerment in the 21st century. Women are building employment, adding to economic prosperity, and also being responsible for enhancing the role of other women by developing digital enterprises. In doing so, the success of these digital enterprises is influenced by other factors. The purpose of this paper is to define, evaluate and clarify, in the sense of technological innovation, the factors associated with the growth of women’s own enterprises. A systematic and comprehensive analysis of literature has been carried out for the purpose of the research for the given time. The results stressed the relevance of regulatory policies and policy to the growth of women-owned digital enterprises, in addition to technical information, such as the occupation of parents, financial support from banks and government and non-profit organisations.
  Keywords: digital entrepreneurship; motivational factors; women enterprises; cultural factors; socio-economic factors.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036360
   
  
• Modelling of factors influencing impulse buying behaviour of online shoppers: An integrated ISM and MICMAC approach  
  by Sucheta Agarwal, Aastha Dixit, Biswas Dixit, VIVEK AGRAWAL 
  Abstract: With the change in the lifestyle of people, their life has become full of stress with less time for relaxation. To save time from their busy schedule, people are becoming more inclined toward online shopping. The emergence of new trends and technologies has revolutionised the online retail industry, which has aroused the need to study and understand various phenomenon related to e-retail industry, like impulse buying behaviour. Therefore, in this paper, researchers have identified some major factors that influence impulse buying behaviour of online shoppers and prepared a model using interpretive structural modelling (ISM) and MICMAC to illustrate the relationships among the identified factors.
  Keywords: interpretive structural modelling; ISM; MICMAC; impulse buying.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036361
   
  
• Role of Cyber-Physical System and Industry 4.0 in Smart Manufacturing Industries for Business Excellence  
  by Kamaljeet Motia, Raman Kumar, Sunil Kuma Luthra 
  Abstract: Industry 4.0 is the latest technology that helps in smart manufacturing in industries to increase production at low cost with good quality of products. Mechanical engineering plays a vital role in the development of Industry 4.0 by adding features kind of mechanical design, mechatronics and control and computational design for designing the overall functioning of components of automation manufacturing. It is a technology that is the combination of different IT technologies like IoT, cloud computing, CPS, etc. It is a stimulating and popular technology for smart manufacturing in industries. To deeply understand the concept of Industry 4.0 an attempt has been made in this paper to provide a detailed study on Industry4.0 that includes system architecture, challenges for principles of design, and components of Industry 4.0. Post that a literature survey on existing research papers has also been discussed. At last, comparative analysis of different existing projects of smart manufacturing has been presented.
  Keywords: Industry 4.0; internet of things; IoT; information and communication technologies; ICTs; smart objects cyber-physical system; CPS; cloud; information integration.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036500
   
  
• Determinants of entrepreneurial innovation: Evidence from Kuwait  
  by Talla Aldeehani, Moid Ahmad 
  Abstract: Innovation score of a country is imperative to the entrepreneurial culture of any country which subsequently affects the local economy. A high income country like Kuwait is expected to be high on this rationale but literature suggests otherwise. This paper is based on the 14 pillars of global entrepreneurship index (GEI) to investigate the determinants of entrepreneurial innovation in Kuwait and analysis the favorable and unfavorable factors. Exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis were used to investigate the causal relationships amongst the 14 pillars of entrepreneurship. We found that the government inefficiency is the main reason for the lack of entrepreneurship stimulus in the country. We found three explanatory latent variables: government efficiency, entrepreneurial risk, and skills/qualification which affect entrepreneur’s innovation. Entrepreneur’s qualification was observed with a direct link to innovation with significant direct and total influence.
  Keywords: entrepreneurial innovation; factor analysis; structural equation modelling; SEM; global entrepreneurship index; GEI; Kuwait.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036539
   
  
• IMPACT OF TQM-SCM PRACTICES ON THE BUSINESS PERFORMANCE OF MANUFACTURING FIRMS: A CASE STUDY  
  by Mandeep Kaur, Kanwarpreet Singh, Doordarshi Singh 
  Abstract: Globalisation has changed the taste of customers; they want quality products at minimum cost within the minimum time period. That is why; manufacturing organisations are working to improve the quality, cost, and timely delivery of products through the synergistic implementation of quality principles with supply chain management. So, to access this current scenario of business performance through synergistic implementation of TQM-SCM, the current study has been carried out in the U-bolt section of the medium-scale manufacturing industry of India that has implemented both TQM-SCM. This study found that the synergistic approach of TQM-SCM is contributing in a better way than only the SCM approach.
  Keywords: TQM; Indian; supply chain management; SCM.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036723
   
  
• INFLUENCE OF INSTITUTIONAL FACTORS ON GLOBAL CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY PERFORMANCE  
  by SUJIT MONDAL, Tarak Nath Sahu, KALPATARU BANDOPADHYAY 
  Abstract: The study contributes to the problem in managing business-society relations through an institutional perspective of social responsibility. For this purpose, it makes use of various prominent institutional dynamics worldwide to predict their country-specific effects on global corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance for as many as 59 countries. By employing ordinary least square (OLS) model of regression analysis, the study documents that per capita industrial productivity and pollution level are negatively linked to CSR performance. In order to thrive for improved CSR performance, the study suggests governments at sub-national levels to work towards ensuring environmental sustainability through the enactment of more stringent laws concerning business conduct, ecology, pollution and biodiversity. It also urges the corporate sector to walk shoulder-to-shoulder with the government’s effort towards realising inclusive growth through proper and meaningful integration of various socio-economic and environmental concerns into its business process as well as CSR policy.
  Keywords: corporate social responsibility; CSR; sustainability; environment; pollution; stakeholder; accountability; institutional theory; legitimacy theory; institutional factors.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036754
   
  
• State of art review on Smart Manufacturing  
  by Anilkumar Malaga, S. Vinodh 
  Abstract: Manufacturing sector has been witnessing a transition towards fourth generation paradigm. In this regard, information and communication technology (ICT) has a vital role in supporting this transition. Smart manufacturing (SM) has industrial potential in dealing with modern revolution. Smart manufacturing include integrative and collaborative characteristics to respond to dynamic needs of the customers. The purpose of the article is to report state of art review on smart manufacturing. Appropriate strategies and technologies support this transition and emergence of smart manufacturing. In this context, this article presents the review of smart manufacturing in ten different perspectives. The existing frameworks of SM have been reviewed and a framework has been proposed. The review is presented in dimensions such as definitions, principles, benefits, technologies, performance measures, integrated manufacturing systems, barriers, factors, applications and challenges. Insights derived from review have been discussed and a framework has been proposed.
  Keywords: smart manufacturing; review; ICT; internet of things; framework; cyber physical systems.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10036875
   
  
• Employee perceptions towards KM and innovation practices in Indian manufacturing: An ISM-SEM based approach  
  by Vasanth Kamath, Seena Biju, Amrithalakshmi Pai, Rajesh Pai 
  Abstract: This paper evaluates the employee perceptions towards the influence of knowledge management (KM) enabler strategies on KM effectiveness, and innovative ability in Indian manufacturing firms. The research is undertaken keeping in mind, the Make in India call by the Indian Government to boost the manufacturing sector. The study starts with a literature discussion leading to development of a conceptual model using interpretive structural modelling (ISM) technique. Research hypotheses are formulated, responses are collected from the employees from 32 manufacturing firms and are analysed. The findings reveal the existent issues in the implementation. It highlights the presence of a vast preach-practice gap in the manufacturing sector. This research would enable the practitioners to understand the lacunae in the development of sustainable innovation strategies by leveraging KM at their workplace. 2 V. Kamath et al. Keywords: knowledge management; benchmarking; innovative ability; Make in India; PLS analysis.
  Keywords: knowledge management; benchmarking; innovative ability; Make in India; PLS analysis.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10037067
   
  
• Three Decades Publication Trends on High-performance Work System: A Bibliometric Review  
  by Muhammad Shahid Iqbal, Mohd Faizal Mohd Isa, Fadzli Shah Abd Aziz 
  Abstract: The discussion on the high-performance work system (HPWS) emerged since early 1989. Since then, scholars have frequently used the term high-performance work system further to analyse the evolution of this concept in this area. The purpose of this article is to trace current state of scientific work and important developments in HPWS by bibliometric review of the articles on high-performance work system published in the Scopus database from 1989 until 2020. A total of 592 documents were collected based on the search results. Most high-performance research work was carried out in the fields of business management, and social sciences. And the areas such as materials science biochemistry, genetics and molecular biology chemical engineering pharmacology, toxicology and pharmaceutics chemistry health professions were neglected. This study describes the evolution of the HPWS scientific literature and recognises areas of present research priorities and future research directions and dimensions related to HPWS.
  Keywords: HPWS; bibliometric analysis; organisational performance; human resource management.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10037070
   
  
• DMAIC Methodology for Productivity Improvement of Preventive Maintenance in Oil and Gas Company  
  by Sharfuddin Ahmed Khan, Abdullah Jaboa, Palvisha Zaib 
  Abstract: Maintenance is an integral part of any organisation success and improves customer satisfaction and increase profitability. The purpose of this study is to propose a systematic approach for implementing define-measure-analyse-improve-control (DMAIC) methodology in an Oil and Gas Company’s maintenance department using case based research. A well-known DMAIC techniques is implemented using tools such as value stream mapping (VSM) and 5 Why’s. Result shows the improvement of considered case company’s maintenance department performance in 20% reduction in PEC coordinator process, 50% reduction in inspection, cleaning process and assembly, and 25% reduction in pressure test. This study is unique in a sense that it is implemented in an oil and gas company to improve productivity of preventive maintenance operations and provide managerial insight to decision makers and practitioners.
  Keywords: productivity improvement; preventive maintenance; define-measure-analyse-improve-control; DMAIC; value stream mapping; VSM; 5 Why’s; case study; oil and gas sector.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10037071
   
  
• Balancing Reactions and Actions between Service Receivers and Service Providers to Resolve Service Failures  
  by Irma Magaña Carrillo, Göran Svensson, CARMEN OTERO-NEIRA 
  Abstract: The research objective is to explore service receivers’ reactions and actions to deal with a service failure and their perceptions of the service providers’ reactions and actions to resolve the same service failure. Quantitative approaches based on a survey in the Mexican telecom market based on a series of hypotheses tested are reported. The findings indicate that the reactions and actions performed by the service receiver should be monitored and balanced by the service provider. The service receiver expectations and experiences of a service failure should be managed and resolved by the service provider adaptations and flexibility. This study frames through the teleological lens service receivers’ reactions and actions to deal with a service failure and their perceptions of the service providers’ reactions and actions to resolve the service failure.
  Keywords: service; teleological actions; reactions; service receiver; service provider; expectations; perceptions; service failure; front-line employees; client.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10037109
   
  
• Business analytics in Indian firms: Evaluation of key factors using Fuzzy approach  
  by Deepak Singhal, Subham Priyadarshi, Sushnata Tripathy, Sarat Jena, Dhyandipta Panda 
  Abstract: With the application of a business analytics technique, an organization can create higher value and gain a better competitive advantage. However, Indian firms battle to execute a fruitful analytics system that synchronises information work processes on a typical stage. The rate of adoption of analytics over the value chain by Indian firms is slower when contrasted with the worldwide scene. The objective of the research paper is to explore and evaluate the critical factors which influence the effective execution of business analytics approaches within Indian organisations. This study explores twelve critical factors with the aid of a thorough review of literature and specialist’s feedback, and employ Fuzzy DEMATEL methodology to prioritise and determine the causal nature of the critical factors. The results show that factors such as tool certified resources, client timeline, and licensing cost of business analytics tools occupy the top 3 positions in the ranking hierarchy.
  Keywords: business analytics; India; fuzzy DEMATEL; critical factors.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10037221
   
  
• Opportunities Of Investment And Corporate Governance With Variable Mediation In The Form Of Profit Quality Of Corporate Value  
  by Susi Handayani 
  Abstract: This study is to analyse the effects of investment opportunity set, independent commissioner and audit committee on firm value through earnings response coefficient. The data used in this study was secondary data in the form of audited financial statements, annual company reports, and report summaries of mining companies listed in Indonesian Stock Exchange in 2014 to 2016. Based on the criteria, total sample used in this study was 60 samples. Investment opportunity set (IOS) had positive and significant effect on firm value. On the other hand, proportion of independent commissioners did not affect firm value. It could be because the effectiveness of the function of independent commissioner in monitoring managerial performance was not only seen from the proportion of independent commissioners. The originality is because this study using earnings response coefficient as a mediating variable is new in research connecting IOS, independent commissioner and audit committee with firm value.
  Keywords: investment opportunity; corporate governance; firm value; quality of profit.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10037228
   
  
• THE EVALUATION OF THE SOFT SKILLS BY INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY EXECUTIVES WHEN HIRING A PROJECT MANAGER: A QUALITATIVE STUDY  
  by Nadia Pedrosa, Luciano Ferreira Da Silva, Cristina Dai Prá Martens 
  Abstract: The aim of this article is to describe the process of evaluating the soft skills when hiring information technology (IT) project managers, from the perspective of IT executives. We opted for the qualitative approach in which the research method adopted involved in-person interviews with 16 Brazilian IT executives from different business segments. Data analysis was performed using the ATLAS.ti tool and guided by the grounded theory technique with three coding cycles: open, axial and selective. The results showed that the scientific methods that evaluate the behaviour and personality of candidates are deprecated by Brazilian IT executives, because they prefer to use empirical methods, such as interviews with situational questions oriented to practical issues within the area. The theoretical contribution is made by means of six propositions resulting from the study of the hiring process of IT project managers, and can pave new paths for future research.
  Keywords: information technology project manager; soft skills; hiring; competencies in project management.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10037240
   
  
• Corporate Investment in an Uncertain Environment: Evidence from an Emerging Economy  
  by Abdul Haque, Muhammad Ali Jibran Qamar, Shahaid Abbas 
  Abstract: This paper investigates how idiosyncratic and macro uncertainty influence corporate investment. The study employs an augmented dynamic accelerator model (a.k.a. error correction model of investment method) over a panel of 327 non-financial Pakistani firms during the sample period 2007 to 2017. The study finds that both the idiosyncratic and macro types of uncertainty significantly affect the investment pattern of firms. Idiosyncratic uncertainty, measured through product demand, exerts a positive effect on investment, while share price uncertainty has a negative effect on investment. While two measures of macro uncertainty: stock market volatility and macro uncertainty index have positive and negative effects, respectively. However, the idiosyncratic uncertainty moderates the negative effect of the macro uncertainty index. Moreover, the cash flow has a significant positive effect, while sales growth also increases the investment of firms and thus confirms the standard accelerator principle.
  Keywords: idiosyncratic uncertainty; stock price volatility; macro uncertainty index; corporate investment.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10037278
   
  
• THE EFFECT OF MILENIAL ORIENTATION ON INTENTION TO LEAVE IN THROUGH ENGAGEMENT AND WORK SATISFACTION (Study of PT. Pupuk Kalimantan Timur's Employees)  
  by Meizar Effendi, Umar Nimran, Hamidah Nayati Utami, Tri Wulida Afrianty 
  Abstract: This study proposed concept or model of intention to leave, by positioning the millennial orientation variable as the trigger, while employee engagement and job satisfaction variables are seen as the intervening variable to the intention to leave variable. Quantitative approach was used in this study in the form of a survey. Proportional stratified random sampling was carried out randomly in each level (age level), collecting a total sample of n = 250 employees. This study uses generalised structured component analysis. Based on the results of the analysis it can be concluded that millennial orientation affects job satisfaction and job satisfaction, engagement has a significant influence on job satisfaction and intention to leave, and job satisfaction has a significant direct effect on intention to leave. This study renewed the ideas and differences of previous studies as it examined the concept or model of intention to leave among the Y generations.
  Keywords: millennial orientation; engagement; job satisfaction; intention to leave.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10037357
   
  
• Examining the Mediation Effect of Exogenous Variables over Brand Switching Behavior: Evidences from Indian Women Consumers  
  by Sakkthivel Annamalai Manickam, Moovendhan V 
  Abstract: This paper focuses on finding mediation effect of selected exogenous variables between marketing mix and brand switching intentions. The paper chose certain exogenous variables such as peer and reference groups, society, brand value, external consultants, and intend to identify the mediating effect of such variables over marketing mix variables and brand switching intentions of women consumers. The study has been conducted among 250 women consumers of personal care products and the results revealed that: 1) all the selected exogenous variables have a positive mediation effect over brand switching intentions; 2) peer and reference groups found to have higher mediation effect followed by society, brand value and external consultants respectively and the implications are discussed.
  Keywords: brand switching intention; marketing mix; peer and reference groups; external consultant; social influence; mediation effect; women consumers; personal care products; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10037450
   
  
• Multilateralism in Nations: An Empirical Research  
  by Tarika Sikarwar 
  Abstract: The present study is based on the multilateralism of the ASEAN group with specific reference to two emerging powers of the Asian region, i.e., China and India. ASEAN is dependent on China for its economic and trade need. India apart from being a trading partner stands between the power game being played by the US and China in the ASEAN region. The study is an effort to understand the multilateral relations India, China, and the ASEAN region have with each other especially in terms of Trade. An analysis of the last twenty-six years data on trade-related variables between ASEAN with India and China is done and an understanding of the trend of the same has been made. Using statistical tools, differences in these trade-related variables between ASEAN with India, ASEAN with China, and ASEAN with ASAEN has been checked. The results have policy implications for these nations and groups.
  Keywords: Multilateralism; Trade Integration; ASEAN; India; China; Policy.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10037602
   
  
• The relationship between fashion consciousness and personality traits of Generation Y with moderating effect of Social Influence: An empirical investigation from India  
  by Anshu Lochab, Mohammad Salman, Kiran Mor, Arvind Kumar 
  Abstract: This study examines the personality traits as the antecedents of fashion consciousness among Gen Y buyers in the context of India, an adobe to the largest number of world’s Gen Y buyers. Besides it, this also attempts to evaluate whether the social influence moderates the association between the personality traits and fashion consciousness. The findings indicate that social influence does not moderate the openness to experience and fashion consciousness. While the relationship of consciousness to fashion consciousness, agreeableness to fashion consciousness, and neuroticism to fashion consciousness are weak when social influence is high and vice versa. The interaction effects of extraversion and social influence are significant.
  Keywords: personality traits; fashion consciousness; Gen Y; social influence; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10037761
   
  
• Developing an integrated framework of application of Wearable Devices in education  
  by Yanamandra Ramakrishna 
  Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to explore the existing knowledge about wearable devices in general and in education sector in particular by highlighting their applications, benefits, motivating factors, barriers for user-adoption process and to develop an integrated framework of application of these devices to achieve positive outcomes in an educational institution. The study develops an integrated framework of wearable devices in education sector through a systematic literature review. This framework will act as a tool for encouraging the adoption and usage of wearable devices in education for enhanced teaching-learning process, reduction of costs and increasing the stakeholder satisfaction. It is found that the management of educational institutions should create awareness, conduct training programs, and develop professional and standard policy to encourage teachers and students to adopt the wearable devices in their academic activities, teaching-learning, student engagement, interaction, assessment, evaluation and for providing transparent feedback.
  Keywords: wearable technology; wearable devices; benefits of wearable devices; wearables; application of wearable technology in education; educational technology; technology-based teaching; COVID-19.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10037904
   
  
• The Effect of TQM Practices on Organizational Performance: A Case study of Deming Awarded Indian Industry  
  by ANKESH MITTAL, PARDEEP GUPTA 
  Abstract: This paper aims to study how TQM practices as a business improvement methodology helped a heavy commercial vehicles manufacturing industry, namely ABC Ltd., to realise sustainability in manufacturing. To overcome some business challenges such as low productivity, financial issues, and low market presence, the industrys top management decided to implement TQM as a business excellence model and initiated its implementation in 2012. A conceptual case study research methodology has been utilised in this paper. Several improvement practices under TQM, such as management systems, vehicles, and improvement techniques, were performed systematically and strategically. As a result, new product delivery time came down from 21 days to 4.9 days, enhanced localisation in enrolling suppliers from 47% to 95%, defectives/vehicle rate decreased from 2.4 to 0.2, and total employee participation enhanced from 70% to 85%. Also, the industry attained both manufacturing and business excellence and got the Deming Prize in 2017.
  Keywords: total quality management; TQM; Deming award; business strategy; operational excellence; continuous development; business excellence model.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10038027
   
  
• An Empirical Evidence of Factors affecting Customer Retention aftersales in Luxury Car Industry: Case of India  
  by Rakesh Naru, Sushil K. Rai, Arvind Kumar Jain 
  Abstract: After sales service is as important as sales operations in car industry and enables a strong platform of customer retention for the longer period To avail the after sales services, the CRM mostly uses customer-calling system for getting the cars, which are due for service in the workshop The continuous and periodic services availed by the customers on time during the ownership of car from authorized retailer is defined as customer retention The present study addresses this issue by examining the factors that influence the appointment system and affect the customer retention and their loyalty The data was collected through a structured questionnaire developed for the study and distributed among the employees who were directly responsible for the appointment system Factor analysis has been applied to extract the factors that affect customer retention The study found that awareness about online-booking system and cost of the services.
  Keywords: customer retention; after sales; luxury car industry; factor analysis; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10038292
   
  
• Fostering Organization Citizenship Behavior through Personality: The moderating role of Demographics  
  by Richa Manocha, Taranjeet Duggal 
  Abstract: The research has been undertaken with an aim of finding out the moderating effect, if any, of gender, age and designation on personality and organisation citizenship behaviour. A descriptive study was undertaken on 504 employees of the IT sector. The variables have been measured with the help of self-administered questionnaire. Data was analysed through structural equation modelling technique. Categorical moderation (group moderation) method is applied to analyse the moderation effect. The parameters of measurement were male and females, young and old and senior level and junior level employees. The outcome of research demonstrated that gender, age, and designation moderate the relation of personality and organisation citizenship behaviour.
  Keywords: age; demographics; designation; gender; organisation citizenship; personality; stereotype.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10038303
   
  
• Evaluating the Critical success factors for Lean implementation in SMEs in Northern India using VIKOR Approach  
  by Sachin Saini, Doordarshi Singh 
  Abstract: Lean manufacturing is a proven methodology for enhancing the performance of SMEs but its application in SMEs requires some factors, i.e., critical success factors which are mandatory for boosting the implementation purposes. So, in this present investigation, 13 critical success factors that have profound effect on lean implementation have been selected after reviewing the literature and analyzed using the VIKOR approach with reference to SMEs in Northern India. VIKOR is a multi-criteria decision-making approach and an innovative method for arriving at the best solution to complex problems. The investigation reveals that management vision, training, business model, upgradation with time and participation of everyone in the organisation play a decisive role in implementing lean on the organisation floors. It is the management that prepares long time plans with a business model in mind and involves the people in them for the purpose of enhancement because they feel that it will ultimately reward them in the time to come even in times of recession.
  Keywords: small and medium enterprises; SMEs; VIKOR method; critical success factors; CSFs; lean manufacturing practices; multi-criteria decision-making techniques; multi-criteria decision making; MCDM.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10038326
   
  
• Evaluation of Quality Circle (QC) program implementation barriers in Indian SMEs with ISM methodology  
  by Rajesh Attri, Anwin Mathew Chacko, Surinder Kumar 
  Abstract: Quality circle (QC) has emerged as a valuable tool for the manufacturing as well as service organisations to solve their quality related issues. The key challenge of manufacturing organisations is to successfully utilise this quality tool for resolving the problems. In view of this, the current work targets to identify and evaluate the barriers of QC in Indian SMEs. In present research work, 15 QC implementation barriers have been identified and afterwards, evaluated by using interpretive structural modelling (ISM) approach. The result of present work can be effectively utilised by the top management to develop suitable strategy for effective utilisation of QC methodology.
  Keywords: quality circle; interpretive structural modelling; ISM; SMEs; hierarchy; barriers.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10038348
   
  
• Factors Leading to Global Virtual Team Success  
  by Jane Weyers, Amy Wong 
  Abstract: Virtual teamwork has become an increasingly popular way of working within and between global organisations. This study examined team members’ perceptions of trust, team communication, information sharing and cultural diversity and their relationships with global virtual team success. Data was collected from 122 respondents via an online survey. The findings showed that the best predictor of global virtual team success is trust, followed by information sharing. An analysis of the qualitative data collected from the survey reinforced the importance of trust and information sharing as important predictors of virtual team success. The findings highlight important insights for managers and leaders of global virtual teams. Further discussion and implications are provided.
  Keywords: virtual teams; trust; communication; information sharing; cultural diversity.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10038349
   
  
• Financing Preferences and Decisions  
  by Vibhuti Mittal, T.V. Raman, Gurendra Nath Bhardwaj 
  Abstract: The Indian micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are dealing with the economic consequences of COVID-19 induced lockdowns and demand crisis. Amidst the uncertain environment, financing difficulties are one of the primary concerns for MSME entrepreneurs. The present study intends to assess the financing preferences and external financing decision of MSME entrepreneurs, along with the severity of financing constraints faced by them. The empirical data has been collected from the MSME entrepreneurs of the National Capital Region of India through a structured questionnaire. The results are interpreted through mean analysis, principal component analysis, and stepwise multiple regression analysis. Key findings suggest that firm entrepreneurs follow pecking order behaviour of financing and display hesitance towards new-age financing alternatives. Moreover, various personal and firm attributes are found to be having influence over the financing decision of MSME entrepreneurs. The study contributes to explaining the financing behaviour of MSMEs in the Indian context.
  Keywords: entrepreneurial finance; MSME financing; financing behaviour; external financing decision; financing preferences.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10038421
   
  
• EXAMINING THE ROLE OF PATERNALISTIC LEADERSHIP AND EMPLOYEE VOICE TOWARDS EMPLOYEE CREATIVITY WITH MODERATING ROLE OF OPENNESS TO EXPERIENCE  
  by Mariem Amamou, Mohammad Ali Yousef Yamin 
  Abstract: The purpose of this study is to ascertain factors which influence employee creativity and innovative work behaviour with the help of paternalistic leadership style, trust in leadership, employee motivation to learn and employee voice. Aside of direct relationship, openness to experience is studied as moderating variable between employee creativity and innovative work behaviour. Data were analysed with structural equation modelling (SEM). Findings of this research revealed that moral leadership, benevolent leadership, authoritarian leadership, motivation to learn, trust in leadership and employee voice explained 53.6% variance in employee creativity. Therefore, the innovative work behaviour was measured with employee creativity and openness to experience and showed 54.5% variance in innovative work behaviour. The effect size analysis f 2 indicates that moral leadership has substantial effect size to predict employee creativity. This study concludes that employee creativity, moral leadership, openness to experience, benevolent leadership and motivation to learn are essential factors for managerial consideration.
  Keywords: paternalistic leadership style; motivation to learn; employee voice; openness to experience; OTE; moderation; structural equation modelling; SEM.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10038475
   
  
• Assessing Inhibitors to adoption of m-wallet: A BWM Approach  
  by Ashwarya Kapoor, Rajiv Sindwani, Manisha Goel 
  Abstract: The purpose of this study is to propose a novel multi-criterion approach for assessment of inhibitors to mobile wallet (m-wallet) adoption among consumers. Nine barriers to m-wallet adoption are explored through systematic review of literature and discussion with expert. A relatively new and efficacious multi criterion decision making approach named best worst method (BWM) has been proposed to prioritise the hindrances in the adoption of m-wallet. Sensitivity analysis has been conducted to inspect the robustness of the study. Analysis revealed risk barrier, usage barrier and value barrier as the top three inhibitors to acceptance of m-wallet. Examination of the literature indicates that this study is among the pioneer studies to prioritise inhibitors to m-wallet acceptance using BWM. Current study provides valuable insights to the managers about the barriers to be focused upon while framing strategies, resulting in increase in the number of m-wallet users. The study will also provide framework for academicians to carry out further research in the field of mobile wallets.
  Keywords: mobile wallet; inhibitors; systematic literature review; barriers; best worst method; BWM; prioritisation.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10038477
   
  
• The Role of Social Media Marketing in Revenue Enhancement; A Case of FIFA World Cup, 2022 in Qatar  
  by Haya Al-Kuwari 
  Abstract: This research aims to highlight the use of social media for enhancing the marketing effectiveness and revenues for the FIFA World Cup, 2022. This research and deep-dive analysis allowed developing two frameworks of recommendations and a list of key findings. The first is to develop a structured objective-based marketing strategy that employs traditional and social media channels in marketing for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. This includes adopting various marketing approaches, per attendees segments, through multiple media channels to obtain the advantages of both and minimise the disadvantages of each. The second is to apply an integrated set of recommendations to maximise the economic return for FIFA 2022, aiming to increase income for generating positive net revenue. The research could provide viable information and practical approaches for: 1) Social media marketers for Qatar, focusing on sports tourism; 2) The 2022 event committee in enhancing marketing and increasing the net economic benefits; 3) The middle-eastern marketers for major events illustrating the difference between traditional and social media marketing recommending the integration of both.
  Keywords: FIFA 2020; social media; traditional media; revenue; sports.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10038483
   
  
• Ethical leadership and team effectiveness: Mediating roles of a formal control system and Chinese guanxi  
  by Kihyun Park, Changsuk Ko, Junjie Wu 
  Abstract: This study aims to explore how a supervisor’s ethical leadership influences employees’ team effectiveness through the mechanism of a formal control system and Chinese guanxi. Using survey data collected from Chinese employees (N = 330), this study tests the proposed hypotheses. We found that ethical leadership not only plays a significant role in enhancing employees’ team effectiveness directly, but also does so indirectly by promoting formal control system and Chinese guanxi. This study contributes to the study of ethical leadership and extends our understanding of the underlying mechanism that links ethical leadership to team effectiveness in the context of China.
  Keywords: ethical leadership; formal control system; Chinese guanxi; team effectiveness; mediating mechanism.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10038553
   
  
• Potential Use of Productivity Accounting for Measuring Changes in Profits and Loses Performance of Companies: An Applied Study on the General Company of Fertilizer Industry in Southern Iraq/Basra  
  by Nadhim Hasan 
  Abstract: More interest and investigation are increasingly directed towards the subject of productivity in all countries at all levels because raising the rate of productivity is an integral goal and is a clear indicator of the economic progress, and ultimately, the national income increase that nations seek to achieve. It is therefore necessary that studies and researches about how to increase productivity be in the lead as increasing productivity is the primary aim of any economic activity and it is always considered to determine and evaluate the degree of utilising materials and human resources to achieve economic efficiency. Therefore, it is the job of accounting to play an important role in the domain of productivity by offering a group of productivity-related accounting indices, then analysing the variables of productivity and explaining their impact on the company profitability. These indices can also be used to evaluate company performance. The researcher reached to various conclusions and enumerated recommendations that are expected to be applied by the company under study on behalf of the public interest.
  Keywords: productivity; performance of companies; Iraq.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10038577
   
  
• The Roles of Innovation and Internationalization in Explaining Dynamic Business Performance  
  by Wei-Kang Wang, Imen Tebourbi, Qian Long Kweh, Cheng-Che Li 
  Abstract: This study examines the effects of innovation (patent-related proxies), internationalisation (proxies measuring overseas business), and the interaction terms of the two variables on dynamic business performance (technical efficiency). A dynamic production model has been developed and assessed using a directional distance function (DDF) model under the Luenberger benefit function to measure technical efficiency of 467 firm-year observations of Taiwanese listed semiconductor companies during the sample period 2009 to 2015. The DDF efficiency analysis shows that technical efficiency fluctuated but remained relatively stable, with an overall mean value of 0.828. Regression results indicate that innovation and internationalisation contribute positively to dynamic business performance; although, the interaction between the two variables is not related to dynamic business performance. While innovation and internationalisation are important factors driving the dynamic business performance of the semiconductor companies in Taiwan, the vital economic assets of the industry have to be continuously protected.
  Keywords: innovation; internationalisation; business performance; dynamic data envelopment analysis; DEA; the Taiwanese semiconductor industry.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10038602
   
  
• Corporate Governance and Its Effect on Corporate Performance Using A Dynamic Panel Model: Evidence from Saudi Arabia  
  by Qadri Aljabri 
  Abstract: Capital market authority (CMA) in Saudi Arabia introduced principles of corporate governance in 2006, which were adopted by listed firms after facing a global financial crisis (Dubai Crisis) 2007/2008. CMA has the responsibility to regulate the Saudi stock market to increase investor confidence and protect the rights of shareholders. This study examines the association between governance mechanism and corporate performance using an upgraded dynamic panel model. Tradition estimation techniques such as static models are biased because of endogeneity issues. This study used various proxies of governance-mechanism and examines its relationship with corporate performance. The non-financial listed firm considers as the sample of the study for five years. The result shows the significant impact of corporate governance on corporate performance in the firms. The findings reveal that corporate governance principles help the firms to improve financial performance, and dynamic models are appropriate to examine the association between corporate-governance and corporate-performance.
  Keywords: corporate governance; firm performance; agency theory; dynamic panel model; system GMM.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10038638
   
  
• The Design and Use of Performance Management Systems in China’s Innovative Start-ups Using GLOBE Cultural and Leadership Elements: A Proposed Conceptual Framework  
  by Clarence Hung, A.K. Siti-Nabiha 
  Abstract: The purpose of this paper was to develop a conceptual framework to examine the type and design and use of performance management systems (PMSs), including the influence of national culture and leadership behaviours on PMSs in Chinas innovative start-up companies. The proposed conceptual framework was developed based on extensive analysis of the literature, and the utilisation of the GLOBE cultural theory to explain the attributes, behaviours and practices of Chinese start-up managers. It is believed that these characteristics influence the start-up managers decision-making regarding how to manage and control their organisations. The cultural dimension scores were used to analyse manager behaviours, and three theoretical propositions were derived from the conceptual framework. The propositions and framework developed can contribute to the body of knowledge on PMSs in small, technology-based, non-Western organisations, specifically innovative start-ups in China.
  Keywords: performance management system; PMS; management control; innovative start-up; Chinese culture; China.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10038683
   
  
• Assessing the impact of business incubation services on companies in Indian University based incubators  
  by Preethi Manniledam, Radha Ramanan 
  Abstract: The companies incubated in business incubators are expected to grow availing the services provided by the incubators. When the services provided are matching with the requirements of these companies, the incubation process become effective and the companies will be satisfied. It is seen that certain services are more valued and certain others are not, by the companies which are the clients of these incubators. The study conducted brings out the perception of the companies incubated in the Indian University based, government funded incubators, about the services offered and the effectiveness of the services. It throws light to the fact that providing some services more effectively can give more satisfied clients, and thus giving suggestions on how the resources available, especially those created with the government support, with the incubator could be used optimally.
  Keywords: incubator services; perceived effectiveness; perceived need; university based incubators; satisfaction matrix.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10038684
   
  
• Effect of sustainable competitive advantage on business excellence in the hotel industry  
  by Deepali Anand, Alka Munjal 
  Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to establish and study the impact of sustainable competitive advantage (cost leadership and differentiation) on business excellence in star-rated hotels. This will further help the top management define internal strategies that drive the organisation according to the adopted competitive strategy. Under descriptive research through survey method, a sample of 220 executives (top and middle management) from different star-rated hotels in NCR was taken. Structural equation modelling as a technique was adopted to conduct the analysis of the data obtained through the survey. Among the research results, it is worth focusing on the scale validation and testing of hypothesis that accentuated that competitive advantage (cost leadership and differentiation) has a significant impact on the formulation of business excellence strategies. Economies of scale, technology, partnership in the supply chain are important predictors of cost leadership; relation-building, service innovation and quality, brand image are predictors of differentiation. A clear understanding of the hotels on competitive strategies to be followed helps formulate internal business excellence strategies for success and higher profitability.
  Keywords: business excellence; cost leadership; differentiation; hotel industry; tourism sector.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10038685
   
  
• Does agility provide motivation? A comparative study of developer motivation levels between Agile and waterfall development methodologies.  
  by Srijith Sreenivasan, K. Kothandaraman 
  Abstract: The objective of this paper is to determine if the motivation level of engineers in agile projects is higher. The factors considered for measuring motivation are Job Involvement Role, Job Involvement Setting and Work Centrality. A quantitative survey was administrated using an online tool for this study. The research hypothesis was tested using Kruskal-Wallis test, which is a non-parametric test used for determining the statistical significance of population medians. The analysis reveals that the motivation level of engineers as measured by Job Involvement Role and Job Involvement setting in agile is significantly higher than that of waterfall. However, the motivation level as measured by Work Centrality dimension did not demonstrate a statistically significant difference between agile and waterfall. The outcome of the study will be useful in the industry while designing improvement initiatives in agile with respect to people management.
  Keywords: agile; waterfall; software development; employee motivation; lifecycle method; job involvement; work centrality; software engineers.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10038686
   
  
• DESIGNING AND VALIDATING CUSTOMER LOYALTY CONSTRUCT FOR BANKING SECTOR. EVIDENCE FROM PAKISTAN  
  by Naveed Saif, Muhammad Tahir Khan, Irfan Ullah Adnan, Muhammad Khan 
  Abstract: Customer relationship management is one of the most crucial strategies of corporate to attract and retain their potential customers. With the advancement of technologies and applying the internet to the banking sector, the importance of retaining potential customers is increased than ever before. The current study studied in detail about the factors associated with customer loyalty and designed questionnaires for measuring customer loyalty from two critical dimensions (behavioural and affection). After detailed literature, various items for measuring different concepts (customer trust toward service providers, satisfaction, commitment, corporate culture, and intention to used credit card) were designed and validated through CFA by using AMOS software. Findings depict that all the items fully loaded on their respective factors and different measurement model indicate that the two-factor model better fit the data. This is the first study to design for measuring customer loyalty for credit card users in the banking sector of Pakistan. The newly designed questionnaire can be used by other banking sectors as well as marketing, sales promotion business to effectively measure their customers affiliation as well as their behaviour and affection toward company product and services.
  Keywords: customer loyalty; confirmatory factor analysis; CFA; banking sector; AMOS; customers.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10038797
   
  
• New Enhancement of Shariah Governance in Islamic Finance and Halal Sectors in Malaysia: Bridging a Gap towards Integration  
  by Nurul Aini Muhamed, Muhammad Iqmal Hisham Kamaruddin, Nathasa Mazna Ramli 
  Abstract: This study examines the similarities and differences between the Shariah Governance Policy Document (SGPD 2019) and Malaysia Halal Management System (MHMS 2020) on Shariah governance structure and functions and requirements for Shariah/Halal committee. This study finds that SGPD 2019 is more comprehensive compared to MHMS 2020. Although both SGPD 2019 and MHMS 2020 emphasise Shariah governance in their policy documents and guidelines, however SGPD 2019 has specific indication Shariah governance compared to MHMS 2020. In addition, SGPD 2019 also has an extensive requirement for the Shariah committee as compared to the internal Halal committee by MHMS 2020. This study provides a comparison of Shariah governance that would be beneficial to authorities in the Islamic finance and Halal sectors to strengthen the industry. This study is exclusively calibrating the integration of Shariah governance guidelines from different authorities to be benefited in both Islamic finance and Halal sectors practices.
  Keywords: Shariah governance; Islamic finance; Halal; Malaysia.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10038812
   
  
• Creating Sustainable Competitive Advantages Through Dynamic Capabilities  
  by Renato Lopes Da Costa, Rita Geraldes, Leandro Ferreira Pereira, Álvaro Dias, Rui Gonçalves, João Geraldes 
  Abstract: Despite of the model’s capability, the resource-based view theory has received diverse criticism during the last years, which we believe that some of these criticisms deserve to be analysed. The present article intends to illustrate a new theoretical basis for the analysis of the resources and capabilities in order to explain the advantages of applying a conceptual model that articulates the VRIO framework, initially developed by Barney (1991) with a new conceptual model that allow companies to perceive the dynamism of the company’s competitive advantage through the inclusion of the values, dynamic capabilities and governance concepts from the VDS acronym.
  Keywords: dynamic capabilities; resource-based view; RBV; competitive advantage; strategic management; VRIO framework; value creation.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10038817
   
  
• Assessing the relationship between organisational culture and employees’ performance. A study on private banking sector in Bangladesh  
  by Md Mostafijur Rahman  
  Abstract: The purpose of this study is to examine the association between organisational culture (OC) and employees’ performance (EP). By using Yamane (1967) formula the study has got 91 sample sizes and used a semi-structured questionnaire containing pre-coded and open-ended questions. All questions were rated with the Likert five-point scale. Chi-square test has been used to examine the relationship. The result shows that OC is significantly associated with EP. The finding demonstrates that when employees have, good relationship with colleagues, equity in reward, proper performance appraisal, teamwork environment and satisfaction with leadership style they are satisfied and motivated with leave rules, job security, salary, working schedule, job pressure, job autonomy and working hour. This relationship ensures higher performance. On the contrary, employees are dissatisfied and demotivated with the mentioned circumstances when they cannot participate in decision-making. The paper recommends that organisations should consider OC factors to enhance EP.
  Keywords: organisational culture; employees’ performance; private bank; Bangladesh; business excellence; Likert five-point scale; Chi-square.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039043
   
  
• Strategy Identification and Prioritization via Blue Ocean: Evidence from an Emerging Country  
  by Mohammad Hakkak, Khaled Nawaser, Ali Vafaei-Zadeh, Haniruzila Hanifah, Samira Mohammadian 
  Abstract: The blue ocean strategy is a way to eliminate competition by creating a new market environment. Therefore, the present research has been devoted to creating a blue ocean space in the Sepahan Isfahan Cement Company. The present study’s statistical sample consists of 15 experts of the company who were identified by non-probability snowball sampling method. This study’s main statistical method is the one-sample t-test and the hierarchical analysis. Results identified 18 strategies for creating a blue ocean, involving one elimination, two reduction, ten amplification and five creation strategies. The known strategies were also prioritised in the form of six ways of breaking the boundaries of competition. The option of paying attention to the product’s functional/emotional characteristics was determined as the highest priority with a value of 0.234.
  Keywords: blue ocean; value-creation innovation; six market redemarcation routes; emerging country.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039047
   
  
• How Organizational Leadership and Strategic Management helps in Business Excellence: Moderating role of Employees’ Motivation in UAE  
  by Anas Abudaqa, Rashed Alzahmi, Mohd. Faiz Hilmi, Gouher Ahmed 
  Abstract: These days businesses are more concerned about the small elements that lead to organisational excellence rather than increasing the volume of their business. The study employs SEM using smart-PLS software to investigate the moderating effect of employee motivation on the impact of organisational leadership and strategic management on organisational excellence. The findings through 300 samples show a positive relationship between organisational leadership and organisational excellence and strategic management and organisational excellence. The affiliation between employee motivation and organisational excellence is also found to be positive. The employee motivation positively moderates the affiliation between organisational leadership and organisational excellence and strategic management and organisational excellence. The firms should focus more from finding the sources of profitability to firm itself and from profit making to value driven products, the study also provides managerial insights for guiding about importance of their own decisions as well as the contribution of the employees.
  Keywords: organisational leadership; strategic management; employees’ motivation; business excellence; UAE.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039104
   
  
• Influence of Perceived Usefulness and User Generated Content on Consumer Trust to make Online Purchase Decision  
  by Pavitra Sahai, Pratyush Gupta, Sumukh Hungund 
  Abstract: With the dawn of the 21st century, the field of marketing has completely transformed and restructured the methodology to ensure companies reach their customer. This paper aims to examine the influence of perceived usefulness and user generated content on consumer trust leading to a consumer purchase decision in the context of digital marketing. Firstly, a rigorous literature review is carried out to identify variables and to develop a conceptual framework. The survey respondents are identified through the snowball sampling method, and data is collected through an online survey. SEM is used to analyse the relationship among the study variables. The data is analysed using Smart PLS 3.0. The results indicate that user-generated content and perceived usefulness influence consumer trust, which influences consumer buying decisions. The insights gained from the study helps the marketing managers in identifying and developing digital marking strategies to build trust among consumers.
  Keywords: online purchase decision; perceived usefulness; user generated content; UGC; word of mouth; marketing mix elements; consumer trust.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039188
   
  
• “Sustainable Packaging” in Fresh Food Supply Chain: Case of Kiwi Fruit Supply Chain in Uttarakhand  
  by Shantanu Trivedi, Saurav Negi, Neeraj Anand 
  Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to give an insight into the role of sustainable packaging in the supply chain of perishable food items. The paper mainly illustrates the core importance of the packaging of fresh fruits acting as a strategic component in increasing and enhancing the overall sustainability and performance activities of the entire supply chain in delivering the fresh fruit safely without hampering and degradation of the quality from the farm to fork. To achieve and adopt sustainability in packaging, a case of selected fruit (kiwi) in the Uttarakhand state of India has been discussed in this paper. The finding of this research shows how new packaging design can be adopted and strategise to achieve sustainability in the food supply chain, which would help to understand and comprehend the different proactive integrated approaches in packaging development processes to enhance eco-efficiency and shelf life along the supply chain.
  Keywords: sustainable packaging; sustainable supply chain management; innovative packaging; fresh food supply chain; biodegradable packaging.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039235
   
  
• Tourism Prospects and Economic Affluence of North-East India: A Comparative Study  
  by Najul Laskar, Pranesh Debnath 
  Abstract: This paper attempts to explore the association between economic prosperity and tourism development in the north east (NE) states during the financial year from 20112012 to 20172018. Considering the secondary data, the study observed that there are massive inequalities and volatility in economic growth among the NE states under consideration as compared to the national average measured through the gross domestic product. Analysis of tourists influx statistics disclosed that tourists arrival in Assam is highest, and it shares more than 66% of total tourists in the NE region during the study period whereas, the lowest in Nagaland, contributing less than 1%. Nevertheless, the compound annual growth rate of tourist arrival in the region, Arunachal Pradesh, shows the highest with 24.84%, which is above the average growth of the country and Mizoram (2.98% only) registered the lowest.
  Keywords: tourism; tourists arrival; gross state domestic product; economic development; north-east region; employment.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039267
   
  
• Psychometric Testing-The game changer-A 360-degree view of Psychometric testing and its applicability in HR functions  
  by Devi Manikeswari G, SATYA PAVAN KUMAR R, Suresh Sirisetti 
  Abstract: The introduction and application of psychometric testing in HRM has proved to bestow benefits across so many different aspects that fall into the role of human resource (HR). Though popular for being used for employee selection, psychometric testing has been used for many other purposes as well. This paper aims at highlighting the different functions of HR across which psychometric testing could be put to use, and also provides an insight into the types and tools of psychometric testing. Descriptive research has been carried out to address the objectives of the current research paper. The research indicates that psychometric testing is a phenomenon that has immense potential when used within the framework of the set standards and guidelines by trained/certified professionals. Using psychometric tests in conjunction with traditional HR practices leads to improved organisational effectiveness through minimising problems such as bad-hires, labour turnover, low levels of employee engagement, etc.
  Keywords: psychometric testing; evolution of psychometric testing; emergence of psychometric testing in HRM; applications of psychometric testing; types and tools of psychometric tests.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039309
   
  
• Executive Coaching Research: Possibilities and Vulnerabilities  
  by Haritha Etakula, Ganesh M.P 
  Abstract: In the mutating corporate world, it is imperative for organisations to constantly review and re-invent their strategies of service and production policies. Senior executives play a crucial role in the growth of such organisations. It is crucial that these executives are informed, inclusive, and innovative in their thought processes. It has therefore become critical for organisations to spend considerable resources in grooming effective leaders in thought-skills and mentorship methods. Learning and development departments are increasingly using holistic development initiatives, such as coaching and mentoring. Executive coaching, as a developmental tool, has seen an increased interest and usage amongst corporates across industries, drawing the attention of academicians as well. Topical literature suggests that there is a burgeoning interest in the practice of coaching based on research. In this context, this paper deliberates on the possibilities and probable issues that a researcher may face at different stages of research on executive coaching.
  Keywords: executive coaching; coaching approaches; leadership development; human resources; organisation development; research methodology.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039341
   
  
• Investigating the Impact of Total Quality Management (TQM) Practices and Six Sigma Processes to Enhance the Quality and Reduce the Cost of Quality: The Case of Dubai  
  by Haitham Alzoubi, Mohammad Inairat, Gouher Ahmed 
  Abstract: The application of the TQM and Six Sigma in the plastic industry in Dubai is known for its commitment to quality products and competitive prices, making Dubai a world shopping destination in the world of plastics. Literature confirms the efficacy of TQM and Six Sigma to achieve quality and cost/price, efficiencies, competitiveness, consumer satisfaction and profitable businesses. The study results reveal among other things, almost a 1:1 relationship between TQM and Six Sigma, which would enable companies to carefully plan for their quality and costs in order to achieve total commitment to quality. The policy implication of which is to introduce the booming environmental factor into TQM and Six Sigma dynamics and calculus.
  Keywords: total quality management; TQM; Six Sigma processes; quality; cost of quality; COQ.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10039342
   
  
• Assessing the Factors of Social Media Advertising: Integrated ISM-MICMAC Approach  
  by Deepika Badndil, VIVEK AGRAWAL 
  Abstract: Advertisers are utilising social media platforms for marketing and advertising related activities, which address a wide range of audience including kids. The purpose of this paper is threefold: to identify the factors of social media advertising (SMA) that affect kids, to develop a model using the identified factors, and to classify the factors under four clusters as per their dependence and driving power. Eleven factors have been shortlisted with the expert opinion. These factors are arranged in a systematic model or digraph by implementing interpretative structural modelling (ISM) methodology. Further, with the help of MICMAC analysis, these factors are grouped under four clusters. This study provides a comprehensible relationship model among the identified factors, which can help managers to decide on their advertising scheme. Research on the effects of SMA on kids in Indian context is still untapped and need to be explored. Therefore, this paper can be a good start to initiate research in this arena for future research scholars.
  Keywords: social media; advertising; kids; purchase intentions; ISM.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039536
   
  
• The effect of relationship quality and leader's fairness on organizational citizenship behaviour: The role of mediation, psychological empowerment, and confidence in the leader  
  by Raed Khamis Alharbi  
  Abstract: Because of the intense competition, organisations are thinking of introducing a new appropriate mechanism to respond to the environmental changes by creating organisational citizenship behaviour. This kind of action requires justice and relationship quality in the relationship of the organisation’s leader that makes the employees trust and psychological empowerment him. This study investigates the impact of the two independent variables of justice of the leader and his relationship quality on the dependent variable of the organisational citizenship behaviour through the two mediatory variables of trust in the leader and psychological empowerment. The sample of the study consists of employees of governmental hospitals. To form the study’s conceptual framework, five variables are processed: justice of the leader, the relationship quality, trust in the leader, the psychological empowerment, and the organisational citizenship behaviour. The problem of the study is derived from the results of interviews and pilot study. The analysis depends on the experimental design and the data collected from 360 employees selected randomly from the hospitals under investigation.
  Keywords: relationship quality; citizenship behaviour; psychological empowerment; leader’s fairness.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039537
   
  
• Factors Affecting the Intention to Adopt IT Forensic Accounting Tools to Detect Financial Cybercrimes  
  by Hashem Alshurafat, Mohannad Al Shbail, Mohammad Almuiet 
  Abstract: As the financial cybercrime incidents have been increased, the need for effective tools to detect such incidents has also been increased. IT forensic accounting tools have been recognized as effective tools to detect financial cybercrimes. However, the factors that affect the intention to adopt these tools remain empirically unexplored. This research incorporates the theoretical foundations of the technology acceptance model (???) and diffusion of innovations (DOI) to explore the intention to adopt IT forensic accounting tools to detect financial cybercrimes. The model was tested using data collected from 113 certified public accountants affiliated with both the Big 4 and non-Big 4 (non-affiliated) Jordanian audit firms. Results show perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and trialability affect one’s attitude toward using IT forensic accounting tools, which will ultimately shape the intention of adopting IT forensic accounting tools. Findings expand our understanding of adopting IT forensic accounting tools toward detecting financial cybercrimes.
  Keywords: technology acceptance model; TAM; diffusion of innovations; DOI; structural equation modelling; SEM; IT forensic accounting tools.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039538
   
  
• Corporate Social Responsibility and Financial Performance of Indian Banks: Panel Data Analysis  
  by Akanksha Shukla 
  Abstract: Studies have been carried out to determine the association between Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and financial performance of the firm. Also the debate whether CSR is relevant for financial firms and banks or not exists. So, the current research attempts to measure the influence of CSR on profitability of the banks. Panel data regression analysis has been conducted on data of 27 banks of India for the crucial period from 2010 to 2011 to 2018 to 2019. The findings reveal that the expenditure made on CSR activities significantly influences the profitability of banks measured using profit after tax. However, insignificant effect of CSRE on ROA and ROE of the firm was shown. It provides a validated model which can be used to determine influence of expenditure on social responsibility activities of firms on their financial well-being.
  Keywords: banks; corporate social responsibility expenditure; fixed effect; Hausman test; panel data; random effect; India.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039572
   
  
• Making Sense of Brand: How Customer Experience Leads to Brand Image and Price Premium?  
  by Effat Sadat Mahboobir Renani, Seyed Fathollah Amiri Aghdaie, Majid Mohammad Shafiee 
  Abstract: This research aims to examine the effect of customer experience on brand image and price premium among home appliance customers. Data were collected from 400 participants by cluster sampling method from selected stores of Iran. Respondents were purchasers of home appliance brands. For data collection, we used a questionnaire, which contained verified items on key research variables, i.e., customer experience, brand image and price premium. Factor analysis and structural equation modelling were applied to test the hypotheses. The results indicated that customer experience has a significant effect on price premium and brand image. Meanwhile, brand image plays a mediating role between customer experience and price premium. Our findings offer several contributions to the existing body of knowledge on the relationship between brand and consumer behaviour. This research allows academics to explain better the impact of customer experience on brand image and intention to pay higher prices for the brand.
  Keywords: customer experience; price premium; brand image; home appliance industry.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039691
   
  
• Earned Value Management Application In the Jordanian Construction Companies  
  by Wafa Eid, Rateb Sweis, Lilana Sukkari 
  Abstract: This research aims to explore the effect of utilising the software-enabled earned value management (EVM) technique on the perceived performance of projects executed by the construction contracting companies in Jordan. A total of 62 questionnaires were collected and analysed using exploratory factor analysis, multiple, simple linear regression and analysis of variance (ANOVA). The results demonstrate a significant positive effect of the utilisation of software-enabled EVM on the performance. Also, a positive significant effect of the supposed drivers was detected on the utilisation of system engineers (SE)/EVM, with the highest effect related to the internal system integration. The study concluded that, if the construction contracting companies in Jordan want to enhance their perceived performance, they may have to consider the utilisation of such SE/EVM and other related information systems.
  Keywords: earned value management; EVM; software utilisation; project management; construction contracting companies; Jordan.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039702
   
  
• Understanding Undervalued vs. Non-Undervalued Stocks from the Firm Characteristics Perspective: The Case of Malaysia  
  by Irene Wei Kiong Ting, Noor Azlinna Azizan, Premjit Singh, Qian Long Kweh 
  Abstract: From the perspective of firm characteristics, this study explores the determinants of the performance of undervalued stocks compared with that of non-undervalued stocks over a ten-year period (2006 —2015). The performance of these stocks is significantly and positively affected by operating cash flow, and firm performance decreases along with increasing debt. In this case, both undervalued and non-undervalued tasks should monitor the level of their leverage. These results provide a novel understanding of undervalued stocks and help investors identify firm characteristics that can improve stock performance. These results may also guide firm managers in aligning undervalued or non-undervalued stocks with the characteristics of their firms. The new perspectives offered by this study on the other determinants of stock performance can also benefit future scholars in this field.
  Keywords: stock performance; firm characteristics; undervalued stocks; non-undervalued stocks; Malaysia.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039703
   
  
• Smarter and Sustainable Future Cities - An Extensive Literature Review  
  by VINAY KANDPAL, Veena Dutta, Osamah Khalaf 
  Abstract: There has been an exponential growth in the population to urban cities from the past few decades. The shift from the rural areas is due to the enormous facilities available in the cities, especially the infrastructure and a mammoth market for jobs. A smart city would be a city with smart people, a smart environment, smart technology, smart energy, smart transportation, smart information technology and communication, and smart governance. This research uses a systematic review of the literature. It focuses on the issues and challenges faced while building and maintaining a smart city as overpopulation is a rising cause of concern. In a smart city, big data and artificial intelligence would create an infrastructure that enhances people’s living conditions. It is all about using advanced technology creatively.
  Keywords: smart city; foreign direct investment; public-private partnership; smartness; sustainable; technology; governance.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039730
   
  
• ANALYSING THE SHOPPING BEHAVIOUR IN THE FASHION SEGMENT THROUGH SHOWROOMING TECHNIQUE  
  by Parvi Bharti, Harpreet Singh Grewal, Chirag Singhal, Himanshu Kargeti 
  Abstract: Showrooming is a phenomenon that has affected the retail markets to a great extent. The walk-ins of consumers have decreased a lot because of the increase in online shopping, but more so ever the purchase process has also been affected because of the showrooming trend. In this study attempt has been made to understand the variables of showrooming behaviour in the fashion segment. This product segment requires the consumers to feel satisfied with the quality, thus making them shop through the integrated mode of showrooming rather than directly buying the product online.
  Keywords: in-store; online; shopping; showrooming; behaviour; economic rationality; utility; quality.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039741
   
  
• Direct and Mediating Effects of Work Engagement on Organizational Commitment: A Conceptual Framework  
  by Harleen Kaur, POOJA Mehta 
  Abstract: Work engagement is multi-faceted and this study unfurls the entirely diverse outlook of work engagement. Nowadays, employee engagement is considered as one of the important challenges in front of management. In addition to attracting and retaining the best talent, keeping them committed and engaged has also become imperative in the interest of organisations. Employee engagement appears as a mantra to success in the time of hard-hitting competition and slow growth panoramas. Employees are expected to be affianced, when they find their work meaningful, receive positive response and support from the organisation. Engaged employees have the innate aspiration to contribute to the achievement of organisational objectives rather than their personal goals. The term employee engagement has gained huge attention from academicians and researchers since inception. The present study aims at examining the structural relationship among four significant concepts which are: meaningful work, perceived organisational support, work engagement and organisational commitment. To study the relationship, it proposes a conceptual framework, revealing direct as well as the mediating effect of engagement on commitment. The role of antecedents of engagement, namely meaningful work and perceived organisational support (POS) in influencing organisational commitment is also highlighted by the model.
  Keywords: meaningful work; perceived organisational support; POS; work engagement; organisational commitment.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2020.10039742
   
  
• THE RELATION BETWEEN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY, PROJECT PLANNING, DECISION MAKING AND COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE  
  by Aferdita Berisha-Shaqiri, Emin Neziraj 
  Abstract: Good projects need good plans, to plan successfully; first, we need to understand the role and importance of defining and analysing the problems of a project. Good plans need to define clearly the purpose and then the objectives system of a project. IT technology clearly supports the planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation process of projects. Nowadays, developing a business cannot be imagined without the application of IT, tools and methods it helps to build a strong foundation for managing successful. Project management is the discipline of planning, organising, and managing resources in order to meet specific project objectives and achieve its goals. The main challenge of project management is to achieve all project goals and objectives while staying within the constraints and frameworks previously established, where the performance, timing, and budget are key. The purpose of this paper is to present the role and importance of using information technology in project planning to create competitive advantage by carefully planning the budget.
  Keywords: project; managing; decision making; competitive; business.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039810
   
  
• Analyzing Critical Success Factors for Smart Manufacturing System Adoption in Indian SMEs  
  by MONICA SHUKLA, RAVI SHANKAR 
  Abstract: In recent years, manufacturing has evolved to a level where it is now more intelligent, flexible, mass-customised, highly productive and possesses better quality. For this, smart manufacturing systems (SMS) is applied to radically improve productivity and product innovation. The paper tries to take a step closer towards this revolution by finding the critical success factors (CSFs) for the adoption of SMS in Indian Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and is analysed using the fuzzy extended analytical hierarchal process (FEAHP) approach. Amongst the ranked factor, it is found that factors at the strategic level like government initiatives (C1), Future vision of organisations (C2), and regularity compliance (C5) are the most promising ones. The study results will help the decision-makers or managers of the enterprises to make decisions analytically and focus on the significant factors responsible for such technological change.
  Keywords: critical success factors; smart manufacturing system; fuzzy extended AHP; small and medium enterprises; managerial aspects.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039877
   
  
• The impact of leadership styles on group effectiveness in public sector commercial banks  
  by A.K.S. Sukumaran 
  Abstract: Banking industry was considered to be a stable industry. Previous literature identified leadership behaviour falling into transformational, transactional, and passive styles. The present study examined the relationship between the styles of leadership behaviour of the branch managers of public sector commercial banks and group effectiveness and found that transactional and passive leadership styles of behaviour significantly affected group effectiveness. The present study, however, found that group effectiveness did not affect group performance measured in terms of customer satisfaction. Need was expressed in the previous literature for studies linking leadership age and experience with group effectiveness. Hence, the present study used leadership age and experience as moderators to address this gap and found that leadership age and their total experience did not make any difference on the effect of the transactional style of leadership behaviour on group effectiveness in the commercial banking industry.
  Keywords: leadership styles; commercial banking industry; transactional leadership; transformational leadership; passive leadership; group effectiveness; customer satisfaction.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039878
   
  
• Re-Engaging Employees during COVID-19 Pandemic - With special reference to Indian IT Companies.  
  by Rajeesh Viswanathan, Mohsin Khan, Sarathlal N 
  Abstract: The motive of the study is to analyse the challenges of managers in IT sectors in re-engaging the employees during COVID-19 pandemic a situation when layoff was the buzz across the globe as organisations had come to a standstill. Every sector across the globe was affected and the fear of job uncertainty started looming over the head. To motivate and reengage the employees and rebuilt the trust had become a nightmare in such a scenario where in the future was bleak. In this exploratory study among IT employees, the multistage random sampling method is used to collect the data with a structured questionnaire. It was inferred from the study that the level of job security, adaptability, psychological availability, supportive supervision and employee engagement is low among the employees in this strong assertive situation but employee reengagement is positively influenced by job security, adaptability, psychological availability, supportive supervision.
  Keywords: job security; adaptability; psychological availability; supportive supervision; IT companies; COVID-19; re-engagement.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039879
   
  
• Identifying and Ranking the Components of Entrepreneurship Implementation in Public Universities  
  by Mohammad Hakkak, Mohammad Hossein Azadi, Khaled Nawaser, Haniruzila Hanifah, Ali Vafaei-Zadeh 
  Abstract: The present study was to identify the implementation components of entrepreneurial universities. The components were identified and ranked into five dimensions which are management, services, relationship with society, infrastructure, and output. To determine the weight of the components, type-2 fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) methods was used. The results indicated that relationship with society was an effective dimension, due to its positive D-R value. Management and infrastructure were considered as the affected ones because of their negative D-R values. Since universities and colleges are facing great paradoxes such as low financial resources, high volume of academic activities, speed and flexibility in development of new fields of study, they are required to find an entrepreneurial answer to the growing imbalance in the relationships between universities and their surrounding environments in order to gain better chances to control their destiny.
  Keywords: entrepreneur; entrepreneurial university; type-2 fuzzy numbers; analytic hierarchy process; AHP; DEMATEL.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039942
   
  
• Innovation and New Product Development: Opportunities and Challenges  
  by Pratap Chandra Mandal  
  Abstract: Business does not exist without customers. Companies require understanding customer requirements well and offering products accordingly. Products need to be developed based on innovative ideas combined with customer preferences. The study discusses about the various aspects of innovation, the need for innovation to beat the competition, the challenges faced in innovation, organisational requirements, budgeting, and organisational processes for innovation. The study focuses on generating innovative ideas from a number of sources. Innovation is an ever-evolving field and companies require generating innovative ideas and implementing them. To achieve this, companies require a culture of innovation, top management support, motivated employees, and a strong desire to learn even from failed ventures. Both academicians and practitioners will appreciate the importance of innovation in new product development and the organisational practices required for innovation. Based on these approaches, companies will be able to gauge their initiatives and strategies, align their processes, satisfy their customers, and succeed in the competition.
  Keywords: innovation; new product development; budgeting; organisational processes; cross-functional teams; crowdsourcing.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJBEX.2021.10039943