Paola Castellani

Bio: Paola Castellani is an academic researcher from University of Verona. The author has contributed to research in topics: Business & Marketing. The author has an hindex of 6, co-authored 38 publications receiving 142 citations.

Tacit knowledge sharing in knowledge-intensive firms: the perceptions of team members and team leaders

Abstract: This study focuses on the tacit knowledge sharing (TKS) problem with particular reference to knowledge-intensive firms (KIFs), a topic that deserves consideration given the role of tacit knowledge as a driver of business model innovation. The paper investigates individual perceptions about knowledge sharing (KS) at the team level, analysing the points of view of both team members (TMs) and team leaders (TLs) of an Italian KIF. The awareness of these perceptions represents an important antecedent to gain better TKS and their investigation a perspective that has not been considered by previous studies. The research is based on interviews with company TMs and on surveys through questionnaires submitted to TMs and TLs to investigate their perceptions and attitudes regarding TKS. The results from both show a good KS intention despite low organisational investment in KS tools, lack of time to devote to training and low TM involvement in strategic objectives. It also emerged that the TMs’ perceptions of the charisma of the leader was low. Moreover, the results suggest a low presence of transformational, charismatic and ethical leadership at the base of the so-called knowledge-oriented leader.

The contribution of digitalisation to business longevity from a competitiveness perspective

Abstract: This paper aims to examine how long-lived firms can further develop through digitalisation in terms of actions, conditions and effects from a competitiveness perspective.,This exploratory study follows an inductive approach based on a survey conducted via interviews undertaken with nine long-lived Italian firms. The dimensions of the model (command, continuity, community, connection), elaborated by Miller and Le Breton-Miller (2005) in relation to longevity factors, were chosen to analyse digitalisation’s contribution to these long-lived firms’ development.,The digitalisation implemented by the analysed firms contributed in a variety of ways: (1) improved the efficiency and effectiveness of their business processes, (2) enhanced the understanding of customer experience, (3) supported their craftsmanship and the transmission of the knowledge included in the entrepreneurial path, (4) increased the awareness of the cultural value of the firms’ heritage and (5) allowed for the development of cutting-edge design skills by experimenting with content on different digital platforms and devices.,This study suggests managers of long-lived firms develop digital skills that allow them to interact with the rapid evolution of this context and understand how to effectively implement digitalisation in their specific firm. From this perspective, it is strategic to establish or strengthen collaborative network relationships to acquire such necessary skills.,This study provides novel empirical evidence on how long-lived firms are facing the challenge of digitalisation in terms of actions, conditions and effects to improve their competitiveness and ensure their survival.

Finding a way towards high-quality, accessible tourism: the role of digital ecosystems

Abstract: PurposeDespite a growing interest in accessible tourism, delivering high-quality tourism experiences to people with disabilities (PwD) remains a major challenge Beyond a number of acknowledged barriers (e g cultural, architectural, relational), the main issue is the lack of coordination amongst the many actors participating in the co-creation of tourism experiences This paper intends to advance available knowledge on this issue by conceptually suggesting a solution that draws on the concepts of the tourism experience and digital ecosystems Design/methodology/approachThis paper is developed as a conceptual contribution, drawing also on an illustrative example that considers a tourist with mobility disability as the focal actor FindingsThe results indicate that a digital ecosystem could contribute to making tourism locations more accessible by enabling information sharing and coordination amongst all actors that co-create the tourism experiences Moreover, the analysis underlines that tourism locations should be designed to be useable by all people, drawing on the principles of the universal design Research limitations/implicationsThis paper describes a path to fostering accessible tourism, drawing on local authorities, particularly municipalities and universities The suggested solution would benefit from future empirical analyses to assess its strengths and weaknesses Originality/valueBy drawing on the concept of digital ecosystems, this paper is amongst the first studies to suggest a path to making tourism locations more accessible to all tourists (with or without disabilities) based on technology

Dimensions and triggers of memorable tourism experiences: evidence from Italian social enterprises

Abstract: This paper explores the dimensions and triggers of memorable tourism experiences (MTEs) from the service provider perspective. Specifically, it focuses on MTEs offered by tourism social enterprises (TSEs) in Italian tourist destinations that are growing in popularity.,This study adopted a qualitative approach using Gioia methodology. After a preliminary email survey, data were collected from Italian TSEs using semi-structured interviews.,MTE dimensions include hedonism, novelty, refreshment, local culture, meaningfulness, knowledge, involvement, surprise and servicescape, while its triggers relate to TSE characteristics – value proposition (authenticity and unconventionality), value constellation (relationships with local communities and public and private institutions) and social and economic profit (generation of revenue, strengthening of business and new employment opportunities). Using these results, this study proposes a model for TSEs to create MTEs.,This study advances the MTE research in relation to TSEs, a specific category of tourism company that plays an essential role in contemporary tourism.,This study makes recommendations to TSE managers on how to create and effectively manage MTEs to ensure survival and competition in the global market.,This analysis highlights that TSEs contribute to improving the social conditions of little-known areas through the development of inclusive social projects and the creation of new job opportunities.,To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first study to examine MTEs from the TSE service provider perspective.

Sustainable business model innovation. “Progetto Quid” as an exploratory case study

Abstract: Purpose of the paper: The research aims to better comprehend the mechanisms that allow the generation and dissemination of sustainable value. In particular, assuming the business model as conceptual framework and as unit of analysis, the purpose of the study is to understand factors and processes able to orient the strategic conduct of a company towards sustainable innovation. Methodology: The study adopts a research approach oriented to the discovery and it privileges the analysis of a business case with a high explanatory power. Findings: In highlighting the drivers for the creation of sustainable value and sustainable innovation at the base of the analysed company business model, the research proposes a framework for the Sustainable Business Model Innovation (SBMI). Research limits: The analysis of a single case study, although explanatory, does not allow to reach a generalization of the results. Practical implications: The study offers a contribution to the development of managerial theories on innovation with reference to business models oriented to sustainability. The case analyzed is also a best practice that could guide managers and entrepreneurs to plan innovation and sustainability-driven business models already in the start-up phase. Originality of the paper: In response to a gap in the literature, the study proposal is focused on how companies should incorporate the logic of sustainable development and innovation into their business models at a strategic and holistic level.

Learning at the Museum

Abstract: Muzeji su neformalna okruženja za ucenje, u kojima je ucenje istinski motivirano i procesirano preko znatiželje, promatranja i raznih aktivnosti. Proces takva ucenja može biti drugaciji od procesa ucenja koje vežemo uz formalna okruženja. Posebna prilika koju muzeji nude jest eksperimentalna priroda ucenja koja se temelji na susretima sa stvarnim objektima. U neformalnim okruženjima kognitivno i afektivno ucenje su povezani i mogu se nadograditi. Cilj ovog rada bio je istražiti stavove studenata o ucenju u muzeju, njegovoj ucinkovitosti i pozitivnim konotacijama na odgoj i obrazovanje djece. Istraživan je utjecaj varijable spola na oblikovanje stavova. U istraživanju je sudjelovalo 380 studenata, od toga 140 muskaraca i 240 žena. Studenti su visoko ocijenili znacaj takva nacina ucenja, smatraju ga ucinkovitim i potrebnim u odgoju i obrazovanju ucenika. Dobiveni rezultati trebali bi aktualizirati temu poticanja sveobuhvatnije suradnje muzeja i odgojno-obrazovnih ustanova.

Quantity versus Quality in Project Based Learning Practices

Abstract: textIn the midst of the turbulence wrought by the global economy, it has become common to see projects as an essential medium for achieving change. However, project based learning practices - as a subset of organizational learning practices- have not kept pace with this development. To explore this concern, we have carried out a study on practices adopted by organizations for learning through projects involving nineteen companies from across Europe and from a range of different industries. We use the concepts of variation, selection and retention in organizational learning to analyze our findings and report the challenges faced by project based organizations in each of the areas highlighted. We conclude that time pressures, centralization and deferral are the key characteristics of learning in project based firms and that these impede project based members in learning from and through projects.