International Journal of Services Technology and Management (6 papers in press)

Regular Issues

• Methods and instruments of adaptive control over an intelligent enterprise using the weak signals  
  by Vasyl Teslyuk, Ivan Tsmots, Hanna Nazarkevych 
  Abstract: The growing rise of the economy and automatisation require precise and real-time data-driven decision-making from the enterprise. The proposed intelligent enterprise management system for detecting weak signals based on an integrated approach uses the technologies of Internet of Things devices, data processing algorithms and decision support strategies. A basic four-level structure of an intelligent enterprise management system has been developed. The external environment is decomposed into influence signals. The threshold value is compared with the difference between the calculated and predicted values of the integrated indicator of impact on the enterprise. A method of adaptive management of an intelligent enterprise by weak signals has been developed, which, by monitoring the environment and predicting the consequences of the implementation of management decisions, ensures effective management of the enterprise. The program for assessing environmental signals developed in MATLAB allows one to calculate the total signal of influence on an intelligent enterprise.
  Keywords: adaptive control; intelligent enterprise using the weak signals; method for detecting weak signals; method for adaptive management of a smart enterprise.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSEM.2024.10064175
   
  
• Effects of digital transformation on working time systems and working time protection in church-owned hospitals from the perspective of employee representatives  
  by Jens Eilers, Rozalia Sulikova 
  Abstract: This study investigates the impact of digitisation on working time management and protection measures in church-owned hospitals. Analysing data from employee representatives through guided expert interviews, the research reveals a moderate positive correlation between digitisation and the frequency of service agreements on working time management. This implies that as digitalisation advances, organisations are more inclined to adopt flexible work arrangements. Elaborating the research problem with statistical methods it became apparent however, the correlation between digitisation and working time protection measures is weak and statistically insignificant, suggesting uncertainty in the relationship between these variables. While digitalisation offers potential benefits such as improved work-life balance and remote work opportunities, concerns about constant accessibility and overworking arise. The goal of the article is to address the effects of digital transformation on working time systems and working time protection in church-owned hospitals from the perspective of employee representatives. The findings underscore the need for cautious navigation of digital transformation, balancing flexible work practices with protective measures to ensure employee well-being. Further research is required to elucidate causal relationships and explore employees perspectives on these changes.
  Keywords: digitisation; work time management; working time protection; flexible work arrangements; service agreements; church-owned hospitals; employee representatives; work-life balance; remote work.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSEM.2024.10067068
   
  
• Perception and evaluation of corporate social responsibility activities from the perspective of end customers in Slovakia  
  by Petra Martíšková, Katarína Gubíniová, Silvia Treľová, Bernhard Dietrich Koczian 
  Abstract: The paper explores the perception and evaluation of CSR activities from the perspective of end customers in Slovakia. In an era where societal expectations of organisations extend beyond profitability, understanding how consumers perceive and assess CSR initiatives becomes crucial for organisations aiming to align their strategies with societal values. The aim of the paper is to identify the perception and evaluation of corporate social responsibility activities from the perspective of end customers based on primary marketing research. The results presented in the paper are based on primary, representative quantitative research, while within the qualitative research the main role is played by specific manifestations of socially responsible business in economic practice (analysing context and illustrates how consumers perceive these initiatives in real-life scenarios). The findings reveal the significance of CSR in shaping consumer perceptions, loyalty, and purchase intentions. The insights derived from this research contribute to the evolving discourse on CSR in a specific regional context, providing valuable guidance for businesses seeking to enhance their social responsibility practices and resonate with the values of their target market segment.
  Keywords: corporate social responsibility; CSR; CSR activities; CSR in Slovakia; CSR and end customers loyalty; evaluation of CSR activities; Slovakia.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSEM.2025.10070125
   
  
• Trust or trend? The amplifying effect of brand credibility on online reviews and OEM product purchases  
  by Paulo Noel A. Mazo, Emmanuel P. Paulino, Anna Liza Aterrado, Mian Rayray 
  Abstract: This research explores the impact of online reviews and brand credibility on purchase intentions for original equipment manufacturer (OEM) products, which often encounter skepticism due to quality inconsistencies and counterfeit risks. The study investigates whether brand credibility amplifies the influence of online reviews on consumer decisions, emphasising their combined significance. OEMs in emerging markets like the Philippines struggle to build consumer trust due to limited brand recognition, despite the growing popularity of online shopping. Although online reviews are a key source of consumer information, their impact on purchase intentions especially through the lens of brand credibility remains insufficiently explored in this context. Employing a survey-based quantitative approach and analysing data from 300 frequent OEM buyers in Metro Manila using PLS SEM, the findings reveal that online reviews significantly affect purchase intentions directly and indirectly through brand credibility. The study addresses a gap by focusing on OEM products unique branding challenges and highlights the role of digital reputation and credibility-building in shaping consumer trust and purchase decisions. It provides insights for OEM sellers on leveraging online reviews and credibility strategies to enhance consumer perception and boost sales.
  Keywords: online reviews; purchase intention; PI; brand credibility; BC; original equipment manufacturer; OEM; mediation; digital consumer behaviour.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJEMR.2025.10073198
   
  
• Purchasing Attitude in the Metaverse through Virtual Reality Glasses  
  by Javier A. Sánchez-Torres, Sandra-Milena Palacio-López, Yuri Hernandez-Fernandez, Carolina M. Perlaza-Lopera, Juan P. Arrubla-Zapata 
  Abstract: New technologies focused on virtual reality (virtual reality glasses and metaverse worlds) are penetrating rapidly due to their swift development. The use of these specific technologies is becoming widespread, and brands are testing new relationships with their customers within these virtual reality worlds. The aim of this study was to exploratively analyse the adoption of these technologies by university students for shopping. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) technology adoption model was adapted, complementing it with other variables to analyse the possible behaviours of users in this novel purchasing process. The results validated all the variables of the UTAUT model, as well as other variables and their impact on the buying attitude in the metaverse using virtual reality glasses. The study provides valuable insights into the factors that influence users' attitudes towards making purchases in a metaverse using virtual reality glasses.
  Keywords: metaverse; virtual reality glasses; buying behaviour; attitude; Internet; digital marketing.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTM.2025.10074527
   
  
• Are We on the Right track? Challenges of Current Theoretical Research in Smart Waste Management vs. Practical Application in Case Studies  
  by Tobias Knayer, Natalia Kryvinska 
  Abstract: The paper examines the current challenges of smart waste management (SWM) with current practical case studies. The focus is on whether topics that current theoretical research identifies as challenges are also reflected in the practical case studies. To this end, 24 case studies were analyzed and evaluated with the help of coding software and seven specially created codes. The codes were technologies used, transport of waste, digitalisation, stable network, bin placement, security concerns and type of waste. Results show: (1) case studies focus on transport (66%) and the remaining challenges play a subordinate role. (2) Types of waste such as textile collection are little analysed, others are not even considered. (3) There is a lack of standardisation in the use of SWM, especially for communication protocols and sensors, as pilot projects are mostly used and (4) researchers recommend more case studies with a larger number of waste bins and sensors.
  Keywords: Smart Waste Management; Smart Bins; Transport; waste material.
  DOI: 10.1504/IJSTM.2025.10074847