Showing papers by "Vanessa Ratten published in 2017"

ICT, Innovation and Firm Performance: The Transition Economies Context

Abstract: The aim of this article is to investigate the impact of information communication technologies (ICT) and innovation activities on firm performance using the Business Environment Enterprise Performance Survey (BEEPS) firm-level data in the three rounds: 2002, 2005, and 2008. The novelty of this research is based on the idea of studying the usage of ICT and innovation activities on firm performance by using dynamic approach so that we can estimate the adjustments that arise from the impact of ICT and innovation activities. The rapid technological development and the growing use of information technology (IT) in business organizations have become the center of attention in past few years. A bulk of literature has been published on the use of IT in different industries, different types of business organizations, and in different areas of business management. On the other hand, the probability of the firm to undertake innovation activities has shown to enhance firm performance. This study implements various estimations on BEEPS observations to test whether the change in the usage of ICT and other innovation determinants have increase the probability of firms to undertake innovation activities. \textcopyright 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Socio-cultural environments and emerging economy entrepreneurship: Women entrepreneurs in Indonesia

Abstract: Purpose Women entrepreneurship has been growing and contributing significantly to economic activities, and it may also reduce unemployment, especially in developing countries. Many women entrepreneurs have begun to experience problems, including within their socio-cultural environment, in the beginning of or when they run their businesses. Among those developing countries, Indonesia has been recognized as having diverse ethnic groups, traditions, religions and languages. The purpose of this paper is to analyse how the socio-cultural environment affects women entrepreneurs in Indonesia. Design/methodology/approach This study aims at exploring the impact of the socio-cultural environment on entrepreneurial behavior, including the involvement of women in entrepreneurial activities in Indonesia as a multicultural country. A theoretical framework is empirically tested to identify the impact of the socio-culture environment on behavior and on women entrepreneurial activity through an integrated analysis. Findings A quantitative method with a causal descriptive approach is used in this study. The data are analyzed by using a descriptive statistics with the structural equation modeling technique. This study is intended to focus on women entrepreneurs in micro, small and medium enterprises in Bandung, Indonesia. A total of 210 women entrepreneurs have participated in this study. Practical implications include useful information for women entrepreneurs to overcome the impact of the socio-cultural environment in their entrepreneurial activities, and suggest insights for future research. Originality/value The development of women entrepreneurship in emerging economies may continuously face challenges, particularly in countries with multicultural attributes.

Knowledge spillover-based strategic entrepreneurship

Abstract: Research on knowledge spillovers (KS) has each been the subject of much scholarly attention, but has mostly been considered independently rather than in combination with each other important issue – strategic entrepreneurship (SE). The purpose of this special issue is to integrate these two approaches and to develop theory in addition to empirically investigate the phenomenon inspiring future research on the topic. This paper draws on the knowledge spillover-based strategic entrepreneurship in a multilevel context, examines the logic of the approach, and introduces the special issue by summarizing the papers contributions. Future research suggestions from the papers included in the special journal issue are also discussed and explained.

ICT, Innovation and Firm Performance: The Transition Economies Context

Abstract: The aim of this article is to investigate the impact of information communication technologies (ICT) and innovation activities on firm performance using the Business Environment Enterprise Performance Survey (BEEPS) firm-level data in the three rounds: 2002, 2005, and 2008. The novelty of this research is based on the idea of studying the usage of ICT and innovation activities on firm performance by using dynamic approach so that we can estimate the adjustments that arise from the impact of ICT and innovation activities. The rapid technological development and the growing use of information technology (IT) in business organizations have become the center of attention in past few years. A bulk of literature has been published on the use of IT in different industries, different types of business organizations, and in different areas of business management. On the other hand, the probability of the firm to undertake innovation activities has shown to enhance firm performance. This study implements various estimations on BEEPS observations to test whether the change in the usage of ICT and other innovation determinants have increase the probability of firms to undertake innovation activities. \textcopyright 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

The moderating effect of brand orientation on inter-firm market orientation and performance

Abstract: While prior research has shown that market and brand orientation are key contributors to successful business performance, research to date has not fully explored how inter firm collaboration for these two key orientations can enhance business performance. The purpose of the paper is to investigate the relationship between inter-firm market and performance; to test for the moderating role of brand orientation in that relationship. A total of 169 completed pairs of surveys were collected of small and medium enterprises operating internationally in a variety of industries in Switzerland. The results show that inter-firm market and brand orientation are two antecedents of marketing and financial performance. The impact of inter-firm market on marketing and financial performance is significant when the brand orientation is favorable. This study extends previous research by examining the moderating role of brand orientation on inter firm market orientation, which is important, especially for firms wanti...

Entrepreneurship, innovation and competitiveness: what is the connection?

Abstract: Entrepreneurship has attracted growing interest about its role in decision-making policies capable of fostering economic and social development. There has also been an increased attention on how entrepreneurs innovate and in so doing consequently contribute to higher levels of international competitiveness. Following recourse to Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) and the Global Competitive Index (GCI) data, the objective of this study involves analysis of the interlinkages between three constructs: entrepreneurship, innovation and competitiveness across the three phases of development defined by the GEM. To this end, we analyse the influence of the entrepreneur profile not only through both their intrinsic and extrinsic knowledge but also through their innovation and competitiveness across the three GEM development phases. The results convey how the importance attributed to entrepreneurship is dependent on the stage of economic development and consequently may reflect in either a positive or negative impact on this same economic growth strategy.

Entrepreneurial intentions from an Islamic perspective: a study of Muslim entrepreneurs in Indonesia

Abstract: Entrepreneurship is part of the way of life in Islam, which has its own way of doing business as stated in the Quran and Hadith. In Islam, intention is an important factor in identifying someone's motivations and characteristics in establishing entrepreneurial activities. This study aims at providing insights on the dimension and concept of entrepreneurial intentions from an Islamic perspective on Muslim entrepreneurs in Indonesia. A survey is conducted over 250 Muslim entrepreneurs in Indonesia as a source of primary data to investigate the intentions and characteristics of Indonesian Muslim entrepreneurs, including their motivations in choosing an entrepreneurial career. Based on prior researches, entrepreneurial intentions in the perspective of Islam has sincerity and worship God (activities of spiritual, social and economic) as two primary attributes. This study confirms that all human actions, particularly regarding to entrepreneurial activity, have always begun with intents and impacts on the entrepreneurial characters of five main attributes: fathonah, amanah, siddiq, tabligh, and istiqomah, and may have been contributing to promoting a further success of Muslim entrepreneurs.

Entrepreneurial Intentions of University Students: A case-based study

Abstract: Purpose This study aims to examine the entrepreneurial intentions of university students at the International University of Sarajevo. For this purpose, the entrepreneurial desires and entrepreneurial orientations of the students across several demographic variables were measured. These variables included prior entrepreneurial experience, student’s gender, faculty, year of study and attitude towards more courses on entrepreneurship. Nevertheless, the research also examined how business environment influences the entrepreneurial intentions of students by considering the same set of variables. Design/methodology/approach The objectives of this paper have been achieved by using a quantitative research instrument, where the cross-sectional survey method for collecting primary data is used. In total, 173 usable responses have been collected from the beginning of April to the end of May in the academic year 2015/2016. Findings The results indicate that the greater the demotivation with the current business surrounding, the smaller the entrepreneurial intentions of the students are when the prior entrepreneurial experience, gender, year of study and attitude towards more courses on entrepreneurship are considered. The study suggests that improving the overall business surrounding and entrepreneurial education might increase the entrepreneurial intentions of the students. Originality/value This is the first paper that treats entrepreneurial intentions of University students in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Entrepreneurial universities: the role of communities, people and places

Abstract: Purpose The purpose of this paper is to introduce the special issue about entrepreneurial universities. The paper focuses on the reasons for their importance in global communities. Design/methodology/approach The literature about entrepreneurial universities is reviewed with a focus on the role of communities, people and places. Findings Entrepreneurial universities need to consider the people in society in terms of how they relate to learning, education and teaching about new ideas and business practices. Research limitations/implications It is important in the increasingly connected global economy that universities be seen as the drivers of the entrepreneurial society, which helps place people at the centre of educational communities. Practical implications This paper has suggestions for educational managers and business people interested in connecting with entrepreneurial universities and their place in the society. Originality/value This value of this paper is that it includes the main ideas from the special issue in terms of how entrepreneurial universities are fostering a connected society that places people, places and communities at the forefront of the change.

Decision-Making Challenges of Women Entrepreneurship in Family Business Succession Process

Abstract: The decision-making process concerning succession issues for family businesses is crucial as it affects long term performance and sustainability. However, while succession issues in family business has been extensively studied, the decision-making process for women-owned family businesses is sparse, particularly in transition economies. This is despite the growth of women-owned businesses worldwide. This study explores the succession decision-making process in women-owned small family businesses in Kosovo using a qualitative approach. The findings suggest that group decision making is important in family businesses and plays a role in determining how gender influences succession planning. Managerial and policy implications are discussed.

Let’s get physical: Stories of entrepreneurial activity from sports coaches/instructors

Abstract: Article published in International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Innovation available at https://doi.org/10.1177/1465750317741878

International entrepreneurship in resource-rich landlocked African countries

Abstract: Despite the increase in research about international entrepreneurship, relatively little is known about the process in Africa. This is due to the disparity between the actualization of business ventures and global perceptions of African entrepreneurs. As a result of the diversity of countries within the African continent, the nature of international entrepreneurship varies with cultural and historical context. To address this research gap, we discuss how international entrepreneurship in Africa differs to the more studied traditionally North American and European perspective. To do this we develop a number of research propositions for resource-rich landlocked African countries (Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe) that have unique characteristics in terms of how they approach international entrepreneurship. The research propositions suggest that resource-rich landlocked African countries need to focus on informal networks and cultural attributes as a way to differentiate themselves in the international marketplace. Managerial implications and theoretical research suggestions for differentiating resource-rich landlocked African countries from the more resource scarce and coastal countries are stated.

The Influence of Entrepreneurship Education on Entrepreneurial Intentions

Abstract: The purpose of this chapter is to analyze, from a theory of planned behavior perspective, the role of entrepreneurship education and entrepreneurial intention. A conceptual model is developed based on the literature discussing the importance of entrepreneurship education in global economic and social development. A number of hypothesis are developed based on demographic factors, risk taking propensity, proactiveness and self-efficacy to understand their relationship with entrepreneurial intention. The hypothesis are tested in a survey of Brazilian university students with the results suggesting that age, occupation of father and risk taking propensity do influence the intention of an individual to engage in entrepreneurial behavior. These results are then discussed in terms of practical and theoretical implications for entrepreneurship education. Future research suggestions are also stated highlighting the importance of fostering an entrepreneurial spirit in university students.

Innovativeness in family firms: an internationalization approach

Abstract: Purpose This paper aims to build on opportunity identification and resource-based view theory, this paper examines the internationalization process of family firms. The role of innovativeness in influencing the internationalization rate of family firms is explored in terms of customer responsiveness, proactiveness and risk-taking. Design/methodology/approach Multiple case studies were carried out with several family businesses in the information technology industry in Australia. Findings The findings of this research suggest that innovativeness of family firms depends on responsiveness to customer needs in the international market while involving a degree of risk-taking. In addition, the results suggest family firms are not proactive in their pursuit of international market opportunities. Research limitations/implications If family firms focus more on becoming more innovative, then they will stand a better chance to successfully enter more international markets. Originality/value The paper highlights the need for family firms to embrace their innovativeness as a distinctive capability for their internationalization efforts. Several new research directions that may enhance the understanding of family firm innovation and internationalization are suggested.

Corporate social responsibility and social entrepreneurship: drivers of sports sponsorship policy

Abstract: Sport policy has increasingly become influenced by corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives aimed at incorporating social, economic and environmental concerns. More recently, sport has inc...

Succession Issues in Albanian Family Businesses: Exploratory Research

Abstract: Family businesses represent one of the oldest forms of business organizations. Family businesses are an important source for generating jobs generation after generation in most countries, including...

Gendered perspective of indigenous entrepreneurship

Abstract: Gender perspectives can provide new insights into Indigenous entrepreneurship by examining the cultural context from which it emerged. This paper applies a gender perspective critique to Indigenous entrepreneurship by focusing on the community and social element. This builds an understanding about the way influences entrepreneurs who are involved in Indigenous business ventures. Suggestions for future research are stated, together with guidelines for Indigenous entrepreneurs and policy planners.

Family entrepreneurship and internationalization strategies

Abstract: Purpose The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of family entrepreneurship and internationalization strategies by discussing the papers in this special journal issue Design/methodology/approach The main research areas related to family business are discussed in terms of socioemotional wealth and societal trends A review of the literature is conducted to highlight the emerging themes affecting the decision of family businesses to internationalize Findings The paper stresses how it is important to have an entrepreneurial approach to internationalization of family businesses Research limitations/implications As more family businesses are born globals, it is important to focus on the positive aspects of internationalization, including emerging markets and gaining important entrepreneurial knowledge Practical implications Family businesses need to be more innovative and risk-taking in their approach to internationalization as it helps them build their reputation and increase performance Originality/value As there are limited studies about family entrepreneurship and internationalization in terms of a broad view of family, this paper takes an inclusive approach to the changing nature of how a family is defined in today’s global society

Entrepreneurship, innovation and sport policy: implications for future research

Abstract: There has been a shift in sport politics and policy towards incorporating more innovative funding mechanisms that combine public and private sources of finance (Ratten and Ferreira 2017). This shif...

Entrepreneurship and Management in an Islamic Context

Abstract: The aim of this volume is to explore entrepreneurship and business from the perspective of Islamic principles, which are usually based on collaboration, teamwork, generosity and altruism. The contributions deal with the confluence of Islamic Principles with entrepreneurial and business ownership characteristics; resource use by entrepreneurs; means of entrepreneurial success, and ethics and social responsibility.

Entrepreneurial sport policy

Abstract: For most sport policy planners, the integration of entrepreneurial initiatives that are practical and relevant to the community is an important way of staying competitive, innovative and forward thinking. Policy regarding sport tries to balance ways to improve financial and social results but facilitate the interest of non-profits and community stakeholders. In addition, with the introduction of more sport policies aimed at increasing tax and other related revenues, there has been an emphasis on innovative policy strategies that go beyond the current status quo and present unique ideas. The aim of this article in this special section is to discuss how the concept of entrepreneurial sport policy can make a contribution to the disciplines of sport management, public policy, entrepreneurship and innovation. This is due to studies of the sport policy process from an entrepreneurial perspective having the prospect of making an interdisciplinary contribution to the literature. As very few studies link t...

Internationalisation of family business groups in transition economies

Abstract: Internationalisation of family business groups is an important topic in the global business economy, particularly for those in dynamic environments changing quickly due to economic and financial trends. An understanding of the role of family business groups in transition economies is especially interesting due to the different institutional pressures existing in the internationalisation process. Often family business groups in transition economies are motivated to internationalise because of political, social and environmental conditions. The objective of this paper is to discuss the various contexts, which help increase the strategies adopted by internationalising family business groups in transition economies by proposing a set of research propositions. This paper states the implications for family business managers who are operating in transition economies but want to internationalise. In addition, suggestions for family business researchers and global policy makers interested in family business internationalisation strategies in transition economies are discussed.

Sports Innovation Management

Abstract: This book introduces readers to emerging issues of sport innovation. The book focuses on the role of innovation in the sports context and how we can leverage opportunities that arise from networks and optimize resources by identifying where they are most effective. It helps to identify the conditions and procedures that emergent business ventures need to be formed. The book is a useful reference for sports organizations, athletes and government organizations promoting the use of innovation to generate competitive advantage in the global marketplace.

Sustainable Entrepreneurship, Family Farms and the Dairy Industry

Abstract: There has been increasing recognition that for regional competitiveness in rural areas there needs to be a focus on sustainable farming initiatives especially for family farms that are competing with global conglomerates. Family farms, whilst declining in number, are the purpose of this paper studying the rural entrepreneurship in family farms as they are at the heart of rural communities and the overall agricultural industry and comprise a high percentage of total farms. This paper takes a case study approach using in-depth semi structured interviews to delve into the types of entrepreneurial strategies that are distinctive of family farms in terms of their sustainability approach to farming. Dairy farms in the West Victorian area of Australia are studied and the findings suggest that family farms can increase their regional competitiveness and international standing by focusing on their collaborative, social and sustainable entrepreneurial strategies.

Islamic Entrepreneurship and Management: Culture, Religion and Society

Abstract: Islamic entrepreneurship and management is a topic area of business study due to the increasingly dynamic international business environment in which culture and religion are important to developing business relationships. The main objective of this chapter is to see the approach of Islam as a religion towards entrepreneurship and management. Utilizing recent and relevant literature on the topic, this chapter is based on the Holy Qur’an verses and the Muhammad’s (S.A.W) Hadith (teachings and traditions). We also highlight how the context of Islamic business is an important driver of entrepreneurial activity.

Female entrepreneurship: a co-citation analysis

Abstract: Female entrepreneurship is an emerging area of study as it is an important component of the business environment Despite the importance of female entrepreneurship little is still known about the role of gender in opportunity seeking and value creation activities The aim of this paper is to examine the development of research into female entrepreneurship by evaluating the current state of the research Research about female entrepreneurship is analysed through bibliometric techniques in order to map the intellectual structure that in turn enables the conceptual convergence of research on female entrepreneurship The results of this paper display the trends arising in the literature and highlight the ongoing debates about the contributions made by female entrepreneurship to the fields of entrepreneurship, management and the social sciences Suggestions for future research into the role of females in an entrepreneurial context are stated together with implications for public policy planners

Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Smart Cities

Abstract: There has been increased emphasis on smart cities due to the economic, environmental and technological shifts that have impacted on society. This book focuses on how cities are becoming smarter, more innovative and entrepreneurial due to the increased pressures placed on them from societal changes in the global business environment. The book defines a smart city as an urban or rural development that integrates technology to enhance a city’s assets, which may include community services, parkland, education, transportation and energy sources. The book aims to examine the role that innovation has in creating smart cities by focusing on issues such as public transport, use of energy efficiency and sustainability practices. It helps to shed understanding on how cities have become smarter in the way they handle increased migration to urban and rural areas and decrease the strain on public finances.

Islamic Entrepreneurship and Management: Future Research Directions

Abstract: In this chapter we discuss the role of Islam in entrepreneurship and management by focusing on the spiritual, ethical and innovative elements that apply to business practices. The chapter indicates the entrepreneurial nature of Islam as a religion and provides a framework for future research about religious entrepreneurship.