Showing papers in "The International Journal of Business and Management in 2016"

Modeling Factors Affecting Student’s Usage Behaviour of E-Learning Systems in Lebanon

Abstract: This study seeks to explore the factors that influence students’ usage behaviour of e-learning systems. Based on the strong theoretical foundation of the TAM, UTAM and using structural equation modeling (SEM) via AMOS 20.0, this research paper examines the impact of performance expectancy, effort expectancy, hedonic motivation, habit, social influence, and trust on student’s behavioural intention, which is later examined along with facilitating conditions on student’s usage behaviour of e-learning systems. Data was collected from students at two universities in Beirut (capital of Lebanon) using a cross-sectional questionnaire survey between January and March 2015. The results revealed direct positive effect of performance expectancy, hedonic motivation, habit, and trust on student’s behavioural intention to use e-learning explaining around 71% of overall behavioural intention. Meanwhile, behavioural intention and facilitating conditions accounted for 40% with strong positive effects on student’s usage behviour of e-learning systems. However, both effort expectancy and social influence did not impact student’s behavioural intention.

The Impact of Emotional Intelligence on Job Performance via the Mediating Role of Job Satisfaction

Abstract: Recent research findings are accumulating evidence that Emotional Intelligence (EI) is associated positively with important work manners. However, the research on Emotional Intelligence is mainly conducted in business field and in western countries; therefore there is a shortage of research on Emotional Intelligence in the context of public sector in Jordan. The aim of this study is to explore the influence of Emotional Intelligence on job performance and job satisfaction as well as the mediating role of job satisfaction on job performance among the administrative employees of the University of Jordan. The present study is based on Mayer and Salovey’s (2000) ability model of Emotional Intelligence. A sample consisted of 354 employees from the University of Jordan who completed self-report questionnaire. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used in order to test the proposed hypotheses. The research found that Emotional Intelligence is positively correlated with job performance and job satisfaction. The findings of this study also confirm the mediatory role of job satisfaction in relationship between Emotional Intelligence and job performance. It is suggested that Emotional Intelligence can be used to predict job performance and job satisfaction, therefore the understanding of Emotional Intelligence theory and its applications can be promoted for managerial and human resource practices throughout public sector organizations.

Effects of Occupational Health and Safety Practices on Organizational Commitment, Work Alienation, and Job Performance: Using the PLS-SEM Approach

Abstract: Recent occupational accidents urged enterprises to put more importance on occupational health and safety practices. The pressure by both the public authority and the business and social milieu has played an important role in it. The present study investigated occupational health and safety (OHS) practices in five dimensions, i.e. safety procedures and risk management, safety and health rules, first aid support and training, occupational accident prevention, and organizational safety support. A survey form was developed in order to investigate the effect of OHS practices on work alienation, organizational commitment, and job performance as a throughput of such practices. The data set obtained from private sector enterprises was analyzed by structural equation modeling using least squares method. The findings of the analysis suggested that such OHS practices as safety procedures and risk management, safety and health rules, first aid support and training, and organizational safety support had a positive effect on organizational commitment. Moreover, it was seen that safety and health rules and organizational safety support decreased alienation, where first aid support and training played a role in increasing work alienation. Finally, safety procedures and risk management, safety and health rules, and organizational safety support had indirect effects on job performance of the employees.

Determinants of Internet Banking Adoption among Customers of Commercial Banks: An Empirical Study in the Jordanian Banking Sector

Abstract: The study aimed at investigating the adoption of Internet banking by customers of Jordanian commercial banks, the barriers restraining its growth, and the solutions to some of the main hindrances that face this innovative technology. A sample of 476 customers having accounts in thirteen local commercial banks and using Internet banking was randomly selected. The self-administered questionnaire relying on a 5-point scale was used to solicit the primary data. The factor analysis-varimax rotation was used to determine the dimensions of the study items whereas the simple regression was employed to determine the relative influence of perceived privacy and security, perceived ease of use, service quality, customer trust, and customer feedback on Internet banking adoption. All the independent variables have significant impacts on Internet banking adoption whilst the best predictor of the adoption is accounted for the website quality followed by customer trust. However, the adoption rate is low and is tracked mainly by customers of high education levels and high ability in using computer applications and internet experiences. Also, the study provides some recommendations and future research to resolve the obstacles facing Internet banking adoption by customers of commercial banks in Jordan.

The Popular Financial Reporting: Focus on Stakeholders—The first European Experience

Abstract: The aim of the article is to analyze the role of the Popular Financial Reporting as tool of transparency and accountability Our analysis examines the case of “Popular Financial Reporting of the City of Turin”: bya questionnaire of analysis of the stakeholder satisfaction the study consider the different social variables because they influence the content and the comprehension The method is based on data analysis reporting frequencies and percentages of answers of the questionnaire and, when possible, evaluating these results according to the level of instruction The Chi-Square test was used to identify statistically significant differences among categories of educational level Globally, the feedbacks were positive and the document could be defined as an important and strategic way to keep aware the stakeholders about the policies of the City However, some improvement could be made, especially considering the differences observed among the educational level categories

Organizational Agility: The Key to Organizational Success

Abstract: Background: In the current turbulent and highly competitive environment of today, OA, that is the ability of organizations to quickly sense and respond to environmental changes, is an important determinant of organization success.Purpose: The purpose of this research is to identify the types of OA (sensing agility, decision-making agility and acting agility) and its role in promoting Organizational Success (OS) of the employees at Menoufia University Hospitals in Egypt.Research Design/Methodology: To assess positive OA, refer to (OA questionnaire, Jaworski & Kohli, 1993) and OS (OS questionnaire Simon et al., 2011). The data of the study was collected from the employees at Menoufia University Hospitals in Egypt. Out of the 338 questionnaires that were distributed to employees, 285 usable questionnaires were returned, a response rate of 84%. Multiple Regression Analysis (MRA) was used to confirm the research hypotheses.Findings: The researcher has found that the study subjects do agree that OA directly affects the dimensions of OS of the employees at Menoufia University Hospitals in Egypt.Practical implications: This research helps to stimulate scientific research, particularly in terms of testing the model content, as well as studying the study variables and the factors affecting them. In addition, this research pointed to the need for organizations to practice OA in order to be able to meet contemporary intense competition, as this trend is to play an important role in enhancing OS.Originality/value: This research dealt with OA in terms of its concept and dimensions, in addition to dealing with the role of OA in promoting OS at Menoufia University Hospitals in Egypt.

Towards Acceptance M-Learning Approach in Higher Education in Saudi Arabia

Abstract: Mobile learning (m-learning) is one of the most critical technological environment of distance learning in higher education institutes. The m-learning provides a widespread access to mobile devices networks and the possibility to learn regardless of time and place, unlike other learning services that depend on the location of the user. The research objectives of this study is investigate and determine the possibility of acceptance in m-Learning and examine the main factors that affect using m-Learning in higher education students in Saudi Arabia. The method tool is quantitative approach using questionnaire method to collect around 400 participants of universities students who are study in e-learning system in various collages in the universities. The survey was distributed electronically via self-selected and social network channels.The study is applied Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT) framework. The framework focuses to determine the factors that influence the students’ intention to use M-Learning via smart mobile devices. The numbers of distance learning in some Saudi universities are increased gradually in the last five years. Also, the Saudi electronic university in Saudi Arabic has been established 2011.The smart phone devices are one of popular usage in Saudi audience and eMarketer reports, it was reached around 73% of publication of internet user to in Saudi Arabia and third global country for using the smartphone depending on the number of population. It is beneficial to determine the factor that influencing to accept of M-Learning in education field generally and in higher education in particular.

Determinants of Internal Audit Effectiveness in Decentralized Local Government Administrative Systems

Abstract: This paper examines the determinants of internal audit effectiveness in decentralized local government administrative systems of Ghana Ghana’s local government system is structured into metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies (MMDAs) For the purpose of the study, we focused on the Ashanti region of Ghana which has the highest number of MMDAs The motivation for the study is derived from the increased interest in the internal audits of local government units Using a descriptive survey, the data gathered, through the use of questionnaire, revealed that majority of the internal audit staff of MMDAs in the Ashanti Region of Ghana possess the requisite professional proficiency Contrary to the perception that audit quality in the public sector is usually compromised, the study revealed that there exists high quality of audit work due to compliance with the international standards on auditing and local audit legislations Professional proficiency, organizational independence, and career advancement were found to have statistically significant positive relationship with internal audit effectiveness, whiles top management support was found to have no effect on internal audit effectiveness

The Effect of Human Resource Management Practices on Organizational Commitment in Chain Pharmacies in Jordan

Abstract: This study investigated the impact of Human Resource Management (HRM) practices on organizational commitment among pharmacists working in chain pharmacies in Jordan. The study was conducted across pharmacists of different levels in two chain pharmacies in Jordan. A questionnaire was designed and distributed to pharmacist working in two chain pharmacies in Jordan. Results found that training and development and reward system were positively and significantly impacted affective commitment; as well as both recruitment and selection and reward system were positively and significantly affected continuance commitment. However, no significant impact found between normative commitment and any of the suggested human recourse management practices. The results showed that the majority of the variables confirmed previous studies and the remaining minority did not support these studies due to factors such as culture, values, and the nature of health care practice. The results have a great implication for the pharmacy business sector in Jordan.

The Impacts of Performance Appraisal on Employees’ Job Satisfaction and Organizational Commitment: A Case of Microfinance Institutions in Ghana

Abstract: Performance appraisal is credited by researchers as a tool for spurring employees towards the attainment of organizational goals. Considering employees’ attitudes as a vital component in the attainment of organizational goals, this study investigated the impacts of performance appraisal on the job-satisfaction and commitment of employees. The study used a descriptive research design. A stratified random sampling was used to sample 200 respondents from Microfinance organizations in Ghana. The study used questionnaires as its data collection instrument. Regression Analysis and correlations were used to analyze the data collected. The study revealed that employees’ job satisfaction is positively related to and impacted by fairness in the appraisal system, linking appraisals with promotion, clarity of roles and feedback about their performance. The study also revealed that employees’ commitment is positively related to and impacted by the linkage of appraisals with salary, identification of training needs, clarity of performance appraisal purpose and employee involvement in the formulation of appraisal tools. The study recommends that organizations comply with rewards systems linked to performance levels, provide training to employees identified to be in need of training so as to further enhance the relevance of performance appraisal, and also instigate and/or maintain communication between management staff and their subordinates especially with regards to their performance.

How Important Is Customer Satisfaction? Quantitative Evidence from Mobile Telecommunication Market

Abstract: To investigates the importance of customer satisfaction in Pakistani mobile telecommunication market. This study explores whether customer satisfaction affects the relationship between customer loyalty and service quality, and also between customer loyalty and perceived value. The study found the coefficient of determination (R2) for the overall model to be considerable. The role of customer satisfaction was significant in assessing the contribution of exogenous constructs to the R2 value of endogenous constructs (f2> 0.35). All exogenous constructs in the model had good predictive relevance for endogenous constructs, as Q2 value was above the threshold (0.156 for customer satisfaction, and 0.467 for customer loyalty). The q2 effect size of customer satisfaction on customer loyalty is large (q2= 0.448). VAF accounted for more than 80% of both indirect effects, indicating the importance of customer satisfaction on the relationship between service quality and customer loyalty, and between perceived value and customer loyalty.

Customer Clustering Using a Combination of Fuzzy C-Means and Genetic Algorithms

Abstract: This study intends to combine the fuzzy c-means clustering and genetic algorithms to cluster the customers of steel industry. The customers were divided into two clusters by using the variables of the LRFM (length, recency, frequency, monetary value) model. Results indicated that customers belonging to the first cluster had a higher length of the relationship, recency of trade, and frequency of trade but lower monetary value compared to the average values of these criteria for all customers. The results also showed that customers belonging to the secondcluster had a higher recency of trade and monetary value but lower length of the relationship and frequency of trade compared to the average values of these criteria for all customers. It was also found that the combined algorithm (i.e., fuzzy c-means clustering and genetic algorithm) used in this study had a lower mean squared error (MSE) compared to fuzzy c-means clustering.

African Generation Y students perceived personal financial management skills

Abstract: Effective personal financial management is of great importance, especially in a world where individuals are faced constantly with financial risks and uncertainties regarding their financial future. However, in order to plan effectively, control and manage financial risks and opportunities in the future, as well as enjoy personal financial satisfaction, it is essential that individuals be equipped with the necessary personal financial management skills. This article reports on a study undertaken to determine African Generation Y students’ perceived personal financial management skills in the South African context. In South Africa, the Generation Y cohort, labelled as individuals born between 1986 and 2005, accounted for an estimated 32 percent of the country’s total population in 2015, of which the African portion made up a projected 84 percent of this cohort. A quantitative research approach was used, whereby a structured, self-administered questionnaire was employed to collect data from a non-probability convenience sample of 500 African Generation Y students across two South African public higher education institutions’ campuses located in the Gauteng province to determine their perceived personal financial management skills. The findings suggest that African Generation Y students perceive themselves as being skilled in personal financial management. Through better understanding students’ perceived personal financial management skills, the results of this study may aid in creating awareness of certain shortfalls in African Generation Y individuals’ personal financial management

Critical Success Factors for SMEs: An Empirical Study in the UK Chemical Distribution Industry

Abstract: The UK chemical distribution industry, which is a well-established, fragmented, subject to strong consolidation, significant part of the chemical industry and a major contributor to the UK economy and employment, remains largely unexplored, with no research in the factors contributing to SMEs success. This is the first study to identify the factors critical to small business success and provide an integrative perspective in the specific industry. The research is based on the opinions of owners and very senior managers (Managing Directors, Directors, CEOs and CFO’s), an approach extensively used by other researchers. A total of 180 SMEs fulfilling the criteria of this study are identified with 118 owners/managers participating, generating a very satisfactory response rate of 65.5%. Regulatory Compliance, Entrepreneurial Orientation, Customer Relations Management, Market and Product development, Prior Work Experience and Management Skills, Human Capital, Economic Environment and Strategic Planning are established as critical success factors (CSFs).Findings suggest that success is a multidimensional phenomenon where both firm-internal and firm-external factors need to be optimal simultaneously; satisfying one or two factors does not necessarily guarantee success. Strong interrelationships are also revealed amongst the critical and non-critical success factors. The paper contributes towards the integration of SMEs success factors theories and provides guidelines to various stakeholders and policy-makers to improve strategy formulation and decision-making process in supporting chemical distribution SMEs.

Defining the Concept of Innovation and Firm Innovativeness: A Critical Analysis from Resorce-Based View Perspective

Abstract: The primary objective of this paper is to contribute to the existing literatures by comprehensively reviewing the definitions, concept, as well as the importance of innovative and innovativeness in the business world. This review covers various definitions of innovation and innovativeness, multi dimensions of innovation and how this innovation acts to generate a good firm performance and competitive advantage, relying strongly on the famous Resource-Based View theory. Since the term ‘innovation’ itself is quite difficult to interpret, observe or evaluate, as argued by many scholars, this review attempts to provide discussion and enhance understanding on these concepts especially in the firm’s context. This review could shed some dynamic ideas for future researchers to further identify, conceptualize and understand the underlying theories and perspectives which strongly influence the previous, current and future concept of innovation.

Knowledge Management Processes and Their Impact on Organizational Performance, the Adoption Balanced Scorecard: The Moderating Role of Quality Assurance Standards—An Applied Study on Private Jordanian Universities

Abstract: The study aims to identify the knowledge management processes and their impact on the organizational performance in the Jordanian private universities, the impact of knowledge management on organizational performance was tested next. Finally, the quality assurance standard as a moderating variable was studied.The study was conducted on Jordanian private universities with a stratified proportionate random sample consisted of (334) faculty members. Questionnaires were distributed to the sample to collect the primary data needed to achieve the study goals.The results of testing hypothesis showed significant impact of knowledge management processes on the organizational performance, and showed significant impact of the quality assurance standards on improving the impact of knowledge management on the organizational performance, where the coefficient of determination increased from (72.7%) to (81.2%) when studying the impact of combined knowledge management processes on the organizational performance.The study recommended the followings:-Universities should seek to establish a formal specialize department to test creative ideas, and then create working groups within universities, and create an incentive system for creative achievements, in order to support the process of knowledge discovery.-Universities should strive to acquire, develop, and distribute knowledge through the help of international expertise to encourage academic activities that increase the level of knowledge sharing.-Universities should follow the scientific and practical quality assurance standards because they represent leading indicators of success toward outstanding performance.

University Students’ Attitudes towards E-Learning: University of Business & Technology (UBT)-Saudi Arabia-Jeddah: A Case Study

Abstract: Through the World Wide Web, education has become a ubiquitous service delivered anytime anywhere. Campus-based and without distance learners, higher education institutions attempt to fulfill the requirements of e-learning in conventional course transmission, to prepare students, staff, and educational institutions for the future involvements in educational processes. The study was conducted to examine attitudes of UBT students’ in Dahban and Sari campuses towards e-learning by taking (371) students from four colleges and English language center.In sampling techniques, we used the stratified random sampling in choosing the study sample. To gather the primary data from respondents, a well-structured questionnaire, developed by the researchers. The findings indicated that UBT participants’ owns a high standard on attitude towards e-learning and their attitude results are significantly vary with their gender, technology usage and skills.

Energy Consumption Forecasting Using Seasonal ARIMA with Artificial Neural Networks Models

Abstract: In many areas such as financial, energy, economics, the historical data are non-stationary and contain trend and seasonal variations. The goal is to forecast the energy consumption in U.S. using two approaches, namely the statistical approach (SARIMA) and Neural Networks approach (ANN), and compare them in order to find the best model for forecasting. The energy area has an important role in the development of countries, thus, consumption planning of energy must be made accurately, despite they are governed by other factors such that population, gross domestic product (GDP), weather vagaries, storage capacity etc. This paper examines the forecasting performance for the residential energy consumption data of United States between SARIMA and ANN methodologies. The multi-layer perceptron (MLP) architecture is used in the artificial neural networks methodology. According to the obtained results, we conclude that the neural network model has slight superiority over SARIMA model and those models are not directional.

How Individual-focused Transformational Leadership Enhances Its Influence on Job Performance through Employee Work Engagement

Abstract: The aim of present study was in line with transformational theory to examine the direct and indirect effect of individual-focused transformational leadership (TFL) on leader-rated Job Performance. Data collected through questionnaires from sample of 202 employees of a national state-owned mobile telecommunications company in China. Afterwards, the hierarchical multiple regressions were adapted to examine the proposed hypotheses. Empirical findings of data provides evidence to support our intended hypothesizes and revealed that individual-focused TFL and Employee Work Engagement (EWE) were significantly related to Job Performance, in which the effect of individual TFL on Job Performance was mediated by the EWE. Practically, indicated that work groups or organizations by stimulating and inspiring leaders who would demonstrate transformational behaviors as a significant prerequisite for employees to be engaged, may be able to increase employees’ Job Performance. This study was one of the first to examine antecedents and consequence of EWE simultaneously. More implications for theory, practices for practitioners and future researches are discussed.

The Dark Side of Virtual Office and Job Satisfaction

Abstract: Virtual offices have been a growing trend in today’s work environment and have been used to improve organizational performance for several decades. However, more and more companies also experience the challenges and problems brought by the use of virtual office in current years. One famous example would be the Yahoo’s decision to withdraw its work-from-home program. Therefore, the studies about the dark side of virtual office start to attract interests from researchers and practitioners. This paper aims at providing a critical view of the changes in employees’ work life due to the shift to virtual office from four perspectives: communication, social relation, achievement recognition and work-life balance. This paper also discusses the impact of such changes on employees’ quality of work life in terms of job satisfaction. This paper intends to conceptually extend the understanding of alternative working arrangements by considering the “dark side” of virtual office in employees’ work life.

A Journey of Cause Related Marketing from 1988 to 2016

Abstract: Cause-related marketing (CrM) has been a topic of interest to academicians, researchers and practitioners in disciplines of marketing The increasing number of publications by various authors in this area reflects its importance In this work, we review research papers on CrM that have been published in peer-reviewed journals in the past two decades to provide insights to researchers and practitioners into the various factors that influence the success of CrM This study summarizes and critiques empirical findings found in cause-related marketing literature from 1988-2016 (August) Three hundred and two papers published in reputed journals during this period are reviewed The review also identifies knowledge gaps in the area of CrM

Chinese investment and trade – strengthening ties with Central and Eastern Europe

Abstract: The economic expansion of China is one of the most spectacular cases of today?s global economy, where this East Asian country is increasingly integrated through foreign direct investments (FDI) and rising trade flows. Chinese firms has been building strong economic ties with Asia, Latin America and Africa where they search for markets and natural resources. Developed economies of Europe and the United States also became their important targets recently, offering markets for Chinese products and assets Chinese firms lack. We can observe rising Chinese economic presence in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) too. Investment inflows are currently expected to increase further due to recent political developments, while the intensity of trade has been growing too, especially with certain countries. The aim of the paper is to analyse the characteristics of Chinese economic presence in CEE countries focusing on investment and trade flows. After the introductory section and the discussion of theory and literature, the paper presents the changing patterns and motivations of Chinese foreign economic relations. The main part of the paper describes the China-CEE economic relations highlighting the similarities and differences of Chinese practices in CEE and other developed economies. According to our first hypothesis, Chinese motivations and practices in the CEE region differ somewhat (a) from the developed countries? presence in the CEE region as well as (b) from the motivations and practices of Chinese companies in developing countries. As a second hypothesis we set that the crisis accelerated the Chinese companies? interest toward this region due to new opportunities for Chinese companies and increasing receptiveness from CEE side. The first part of this paper examines Chinese investment in the six main CEE destination countries (Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Romania, Slovakia), analyzing the most important sectors, motivations, trends and differences of FDI inflow. We apply the eclectic paradigm of Dunning for explaining Chinese investments, analyzing to what extent they are valid. The second part describes trade flows between China and the main CEE partners. We find that the bulk of foreign trade between CEE countries and China can be bound to certain products and certain multinational companies. Mutual trade flows thus are largely dependent on the activities of global value chains. Finally we draw some policy implications concerning mutual economic relationship.

Behavioral Issues for Sustainable Investment Decision-Making: A Literature Review

Abstract: The aim of this work is to understand the role of the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) paradigm in the corporate assessment by investors and the use of this paradigm as guide for managerial decision-making process by corporations. A review of the international literature is provided using five different couples of keywords on Thomson Reuters ISI Web of Knowledge research engine. The literature production increased only after the 2007 crisis and the median year of the results is 2011, thus highlighting just a recent attention to themes as ethics and corporate social responsibility. Main limitations are related to the classic limitations of literature reviews, as the choice of number and type of keywords and journals, the resulting selection of studies, the choice of relevant outcomes and the interpretation, generalization and application of results. The study provides both theoretical and practical implications: a complete review of contributions on the theme is provided; then, some insights in investors and corporations behaviors through the ESG lens, thus suggesting a more ethical and responsible behavior in investment decision-making processes.

Examining the Relationships between Destination Image, Place Attachment, and Destination Loyalty in the Context of Night Markets

Abstract: This study investigates destination image, place attachment (including place dependence and place identity), and destination loyalty among visitors to night markets. A total of 474 effective questionnaires were collected from visitors to the three well-known Tainan night markets in Taiwan. Confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling were employed using Amos 18 for Windows. The empirical results showed that destination image has a significant direct effect on place dependence, place identity, and destination loyalty. Additionally, place identity is the antecedent that has an effect on destination loyalty. In the indirect effect, destination image mainly influenced destination loyalty through place identity. Practical implications and recommendations for further studies are also provided.

Walking the talk in the sport footwear industry: a generation y cohort analysis of consumer-based brand equity dimensions and purchase intention

Abstract: The footwear market has recently witnessed a proliferation of various brands with consumers being exposed to several international brands. Building strong brands and brand equity has thus become an important source of competitiveness and differentiation for manufacturers and retailers. Brand equity is a core marketing asset that forms distinctive ties between companies and their audiences, which nurtures long-term buying behaviour. This paper examines the influence of the dimensions of brand equity on purchase intentions in the sport footwear industry in South Africa. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among a Generation Y cohort through a structured questionnaire. Correlations and regression analysis were conducted to examine the relationship between brand equity dimensions (brand awareness, brand association, brand loyalty) and purchase intentions. Reliability was established through internal consistency (Cronbach alpha), which was deemed satisfactory. The results show that the brand awareness has a positive influence on brand quality and brand loyalty. Brand association also showed a positive influence on brand quality and brand loyalty. Finally, brand quality and brand loyalty positively influenced brand purchase intention. Brand managers and marketing planners should consider the importance of these constructs in their overall brand equity evaluation. Limitations and implications for further research are discussed

Linking National Culture and Product Innovation Performance: What Really Influences the Interplay, Strategy Formulation Or Implementation Effectiveness?

Abstract: A thorough understanding of the impact of culture on innovation strategy formulation and implementation processes as well as product innovation performance is crucial for successful innovation management. The paper through a combination of two research approach, KJ analysis and formal survey aims to shade light on the extent and direction of culture’s impact on product innovation performance. A hypothetical model that links the three bodies of knowledge, national culture, innovation strategy and product innovation performance was developed and tested by using survey data from Ethiopian manufacturing firms. Major problems with the current innovation strategy formulation and implementation process were identified and the role of culture was explored. The result indicates that even though the current cultural setup has a detrimental effect on the performance, the extent of its impact can be minimized through task oriented leadership practice.

Exploring the Potential Factors Influencing the Adoption of M-Government Services in Saudi Arabia: A Qualitative Analysis

Abstract: In Saudi Arabia, Mobile government (m-government) is in its infancy. This study aims to explore potential factors influencing adoption of m-government services in Saudi Arabia to improve future implementation. The review of the relevant literature revealed a lack of research regarding the factors that may potentially influence the adoption m-government services in Saudi Arabia by using TAM model based on the perspective of experts in Yesser. To examine relationships between external factors and behavioural intention to use (BIU) in the TAM model, a qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with five experts from Yesser. Analysis demonstrated that the factors of trustworthiness, usage experience, awareness and security might influence the adoption of m-government services in Saudi Arabia. The results of the qualitative study also demonstrated that enjoyment does not influence the adoption of m-government services in Saudi Arabia. These findings may help decision makers in Saudi government to improve future implementation of m-government services.

Improving Employees Behavior through Extension in Theory of Planned Behavior: A Theoretical Perspective for SMEs

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to review the conceptualization of the adaptation of Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) with religious orientation in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) The underlying assumption for TPB implication in SMEs is that employee’s behavioral intention at work may be modified via TPB which shall improve the employee competitiveness, which in turn increases the organizational success factors in the industry The proposed conceptual framework is based on well-known analytical framework for TPB developed by Ajzen, (1991) Literature suggested that religion engenders the shape of behaviour, which is strongly followed by people Based upon conceptual and empirical evidences framework and propositions are developed to test the adaptation of TPB and religious orientation in SME The proposed framework provides a basis for developing an empirical model to advance the TBP with religious orientation in SME which further can be test across the SME sectors and results from different geographical and cultural settings may also be explore This research contributes to existing knowledge by extension of TPB in SMEs operating in Pakistan, which would result in the improvement of employee’s behavior This study could be of practical value for SMEs owner/ managers, who want to maximize the employee behavior through effective adaptation of TBP with religious orientation that support their organization

The formulation of a composite regional development index

Abstract: The measurement of a region’s progress with regards to achieving its developmental potential, plays a crucial role in improving the prosperity and quality of life of local communities This process has however proven difficult as contemporary views on measurement of regional development are presented as multi-dimensional concepts Attempts at measuring the development process have made use of composite indices, such as the Human Development Index (HDI) and other index variations Nonetheless, those indexes mostly fail to truly reflect the various dimensions of the development process The primary objective of this study was to construct a composite regional development index that successfully measures all the dimensions of development in a quantitative manner The index was designed to be able to assess regions on a national, regional and local level The hypothesised index consisted of four dimensions (demographic, social, labour and economic) that were constructed from 17 indicators Furthermore, the index as developed could be utilised as a tool for future analysis in measuring regional efforts and progress as well as being used to compare different economic functional regions regarding the level of socio-economic development

The Role of Organizational Agility in Enhancing Organizational Excellence: A Study on Telecommunications Sector in Egypt

Abstract: Purpose: The purpose of this research is to identify the types of OA (sensing agility, decision-making agility and acting agility) and its role in promoting OE at the Telecommunication sector in Egypt. Research Design/Methodology: To assess positive OA, refer to (OA questionnaire, Jaworski and Kohli 1993) and OE (OE survey Kandula, 2002; Hesseblin & Gohanston, 2002). The data of the study was collected from the employees at Telecommunication sector in Egypt. Out of the 290 questionnaires that were distributed to employees, 250 usable questionnaires were returned, a response rate of 86%. Multiple Regression Analysis (MRA) was used to confirm the research hypotheses. Findings: OA factors have an impact on OE is investigated. In other words, sensing agility, decision-making agility and acting agility significantly correlated with OE. The study findings support the view that OA and OE are related constructs. In other words, the research has found that the study subjects do agree that OA directly affects the dimensions of OE at Telecommunication sector in Egypt. Practical implications: The study suggests that the Telecommunication sector in Egypt can improve OE by influencing its OA, specifically, by developing sensing agility, decision-making agility and acting agility. The study provided that it is necessary to pay more attention to the dimensions of OA as a key source for organizations to enhance the competitive advantage which is of prime significance for OE. Originality/value: The study observes that there is a critical shortage of OA and that a greater understanding of the factors that influence the OE is needed. Therefore, this study examines the relationship between OA and OE at Telecommunication sector in Egypt. This research dealt with OA in terms of its concept and dimensions, in addition to dealing with the role of OA in promoting OE at Telecommunication sector in Egypt.