Administrative Overhead Research Articles

Varieties of Climate Activism: Assessing Public Support for Mainstream and Unorthodox Climate Action in the United Kingdom

Abstract Is the general public of the UK willing to financially support environmental organizations that adopt disruptive tactics (museum and art gallery protests, sporting event disruptions, and traffic stoppages), as opposed to orthodox tactics (litigation, lobbying, and research and education)? Using a conjoint choice experiment (N = 1,023), we asked respondents’ willingness to donate £25 to hypothetical environmental organizations that differ in terms of (1) advocacy tactics, (2) share of revenue toward administrative overheads, (3) representation of women on their boards, (4) organizational age, (5) organizational size, (6) number of volunteers, and (7) revenue from citizen donations. We find respondents’ willingness to donate diminishes when organizations adopt disruptive tactics. These results hold across party preferences, ideology, generation, location, and environmental policy attitudes. Further, respondents are willing to donate organizations that rely on public donations, have low overheads, are supported by volunteer labor, and provide representation to women on their boards.

Larger, Not Leaner? Agencification and the Size of the Administrative Overhead in Local Governments

ABSTRACTGovernments establish agencies to enhance public service efficiency, aiming to improve government performance. However, agencification makes governments' service delivery more complex by putting service providers at arm's length from governments' control. To retain their capacity to support frontline service delivery, governments may expand their central administrative overhead. Conceptually, overhead constitutes resources available to support primary production processes in the organization, such as managerial coordination and technical support. This study, based on survey and registry data from 296 Norwegian local governments, analyses whether agencification correlates with the size of administrative overhead across political systems. The findings reveal lower central administrative overhead in local governments with higher degrees of agencification, suggesting a challenge in providing central support for an increasingly disaggregated service delivery. Importantly, the study underscores the difficulty governments face in mobilizing adequate resources to achieve their stated goals.

A Taxonomy of Knowledge Management Systems in the Micro-Enterprise

Knowledge Management Systems enhance innovation, increase operational efficiency, and improve decision-making in business organisations. The administrative and resource overheads required to implement and maintain such systems inherently exclude the smallest of firms from reaping these benefits. This research aims to identify, evaluate, and summarize the distribution of research on knowledge management and supporting systems across business size classifications with a particular focus on micro-enterprises. It also seeks to establish if existing knowledge management models, practices, and systems have invested due consideration in their design to cater for the limited resources typically found in the micro-enterprise. It contributes new insight into the applicability of knowledge management systems to micro-enterprises and it stimulates a possible re-think of how such systems can cater to the specific constraints of this prolific business type. This taxonomy is the result of a thorough analysis of 168 research papers from a total of 10511 papers published in reputable conference proceedings since 2012. It focuses on key knowledge management themes covered, including the size of the enterprise, the adoption challenges, the potential benefits, the technologies used, and the aspects of the knowledge management cycle that are being employed. Furthermore, it draws on this analysis to highlight the appropriateness of existing knowledge management systems to the distinctive risk and opportunity characteristics of the micro-enterprise.

Reshaping FinTech with Blockchain Technologies

Abstract: This comprehensive article explores the transformative potential of blockchain technology in the FinTech sector, addressing current challenges and opportunities. It examines the evolving landscape of FinTech, discusses supply chain inefficiencies, administrative overheads, and error-prone systems, and presents blockchain as a solution to these issues. The article delves into the benefits of permissioned blockchains, the importance of scalability and interoperability, and the role of blockchain in building trust-based models. It also covers ROI predictions, implementation strategies, regulatory considerations, and future trends. Through case studies and best practices, the article provides insights into successful blockchain adoption in FinTech, offering a roadmap for industry stakeholders to leverage this technology for enhanced efficiency, security, and innovation in financial services.

Revitalizing Electrochemical Science and Engineering Education to Create a Clean Energy Workforce

Electrochemical science, engineering, and technology education and workforce development are central to the ongoing clean energy transition. In particular, I will highlight battery, hydrogen, and microelectronics industries as drivers. I then highlight a unique Electrochemistry-Technology-focused Graduate program launched through the Oregon Center for Electrochemistry in 2020. At the master’s level, the accelerated program consists of six core electrochemistry science and engineering lecture, laboratory, and project-based courses over either two or three academic quarters. In addition to core electrochemistry knowledge spanning thermodynamics, transport, kinetics, and device technology, emphasis is placed on problem solving, data analysis, programming (particularly in Python) and professional development and this additional content is embedded throughout all the core lecture and laboratory courses. Students are also introduced to continuum-level electrochemical simulations, with an emphasis on understanding the effects of boundary conditions on the simulation output. They also complete a team-based applied project sponsored by industry partners. The program ends with a nine-month paid internship leading to a master’s degree and career in the electrochemistry industry after 15 months.The coursework is also open to PhD students and postdoctoral scholars who go on to serve as near peer mentors and teaching assistants in the program in future years, directly synergistic with their research, and building community around electrochemistry. A new BS-MS program leveraging the above has launched in 2023, allowing University of Oregon students to complete coursework for both BS and MS in just four years yielding an incredibly high return on tuition and time investment in terms of career potential and earnings. Key to the success of the programs is very low administrative overhead with technical faculty/staff leading all efforts and a transparent budget model to fund the program based on tuition return.

Development of a Face Recognition System for Authentication in Computer-Based Examinations: A Comparison with Fingerprint Verification

This study aims to overcome the limitations of fingerprint biometric authentication in computer-based examinations by introducing a robust face recognition system. The research targets key challenges such as administrative overhead, prolonged authentication times, and issues with false positives and negatives. By leveraging advanced technologies like Multi-Task Cascaded Convolutional Neural Network (MTCNN) for precise facial detection and FaceNet for efficient facial feature embedding, the developed system achieves substantial improvements across critical metrics. The evaluation metrics consistently report high ratings: accuracy 90%, speed 92%, ease of use 86%, robustness to variations 94%, security 92%, and privacy 90%. Evaluation of the system shows its superiority over traditional fingerprint methods. It demonstrates notably higher accuracy, efficiency, user-friendliness, adaptability to diverse conditions, and enhanced levels of security and privacy. These advancements position the face recognition system as a compelling alternative for enhancing the authentication processes in computer-based examinations. Keywords: FaceNet, Multi-Task Cascaded Convolutional Neural Network, Face Recognition, Security, Face, Fingerprint Detection. Sulaimon O.O., Olabiyisi, S.O. & Ismaila, W.O. (2024): Development of a Face Recognition System for Authentication in Computer-Based Examinations: A Comparison with Fingerprint Verification. Journal of Advances in Mathematical & Computational Science. Vol. 12, No. 2. Pp 117-128. Available online at www.isteams.net/mathematics-computationaljournal. dx.doi.org/10.22624/AIMS/MATHS/V12N2P8

Evaluating the Event Industry for a Web-Based Event Supplier Management System

Managing a diverse range of suppliers can often become a logistical challenge in the dynamic world of event planning. The multitude of event suppliers frequently leads to miscommunication, delays, and exceeding budgets. Motivated by the necessity for a more efficient solution, the study intends to propose a web-based event supplier management system to revolutionize the process of organizing events. The research approach integrates advanced technology with intuitive interfaces to simplify supplier coordination. With the proposed system, event suppliers can efficiently handle contracts, monitor deliveries, and communicate seamlessly with clients in real time. By combining automated notifications and centralized data storage, the system method ensures that all stakeholders remain informed and aligned throughout the event planning process. The analysis of the needs of the proposed system has yielded significant results from various event suppliers in Surigao City. Based on surveys of 10 event industry professionals and suppliers, it is evident that the limited availability of venues, schedules, and suppliers poses a significant challenge in managing event bookings, with 60% of professionals agreeing. Coordination with other suppliers and communication issues with clients are not significant difficulties for 80% of respondents, and 60% of suppliers are neutral about managing changes or cancellations, though 30% find it difficult. Additionally, 100% of event planners believe collaboration and communication among suppliers are crucial, 90% emphasize the importance of an accessible booking system, and 60% agree that real-time synchronization would enhance efficiency, particularly with a user-friendly interface tailored to local needs in Surigao City. Event suppliers have reported notable reductions in administrative overhead, fewer instances of miscommunication, and improved overall event coordination. Suppliers can allocate resources more effectively through our platform, leading to smoother events and increased client satisfaction. The results of the study will be the basis in proposing web-based event supplier management system in order to address the challenges of suppliers in the event industry

AI-Driven School Management System: A React-Based Web Application Enhancing Educational Administration and Student Performance Analytics

This research presents the development and implementation of an AI-Driven School Management System, a comprehensive React-based web application designed to transform educational administration and enhance student performance analytics. The primary aim of this system is to streamline administrative tasks, improve navigation efficiency within the application, and provide sophisticated analytical tools that leverage AI to monitor and predict student performance trends. The methodology employed involves the integration of React for dynamic user interface design, coupled with advanced AI algorithms that process and analyze student data for actionable insights. Key findings from the deployment of this system indicate a significant reduction in administrative overhead, improved user experience for staff and students, and a marked increase in the accuracy and relevance of performance analytics provided by the AI. These enhancements have demonstrated potential benefits in educational settings by aiding decision-making processes, personalizing learning experiences, and optimizing operational efficiency. The system not only addresses existing gaps in traditional school management software but also sets a precedent for future advancements in the integration of AI technologies in educational administration.

The Influence of Digital Payment Systems on Financial Performance: A Study of Maheshwari Sales and Services

In today's company environment, digital payment solutions are critical to improving customer experience and optimizing financial operations. This study uses a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data to provide a thorough analysis. To assess customer and employee satisfaction and operational changes, Maheshwari Sales and Services conducts surveys and interviews. Financial information is reviewed to determine the influence on cash flow management. Preliminary data indicate that the use of digital payment systems has enhanced customer satisfaction due to the convenience and speed of transactions. Furthermore, these technologies have helped to improve cash flow management by eliminating the time lag between sales and fund availability. Additionally, operational efficiency has improved, with significant savings in transaction processing times and administrative overheads. The analysis reveals that Maheshwari Sales and Services' financial and operational success is heavily reliant on digital payment methods. The findings of this study can be used to influence strategic decisions about the organization's future integration and optimization of digital payment technologies.

Design and Implementation of NFC-based Staff Attendance Monitoring System

In today's dynamic work environment, efficient attendance management is crucial for organizational productivity. Traditional attendance systems often involve manual processes, leading to inaccuracies, time inefficiencies, and potential security concerns. This paper proposes an innovative solution—NFC[1] (Near Field Communication) based staff attendance system—to address these challenges. The NFC-based staff attendance system[2][3] leverages the capabilities of NFC[1] technology to streamline the attendance tracking process. Each staff member is provided with an NFC-enabled identification card, eliminating the need for manual sign-ins or cumbersome biometric systems. The NFC cards are easily scanned using NFC readers strategically placed at entry points. The implementation of the NFC-based staff attendance system presents several advantages, including improved efficiency, reduced administrative overhead, and enhanced security.

Revolutionizing America's Cloud Computing the Pivotal Role of AI in Driving Innovation and Security

Cloud computing represents a transformative approach to delivering IT services via an interconnected network of servers, collectively referred to as the "Cloud." This virtualized environment seamlessly integrates networks, servers, applications, storage, and services, facilitating convenient access for users with minimal administrative overhead. This comprehensive review article centers on two fundamental pillars of cloud computing: virtualization and containerization. It examines their groundbreaking influence on resource management and deployment efficiency. Additionally, the paper explores upcoming trends and challenges expected to shape the cloud computing landscape from 2025 to 2030.An emphasis is placed on the anticipated adoption of hybrid and multi-cloud strategies, providing organizations with tailored solutions while reducing the risks associated with vendor lock-in. The emergence of edge computing is highlighted as a key solution to address latency concerns and foster a competitive environment for the Internet of Things (IoT). Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning within cloud frameworks is poised to unlock new avenues of innovation and optimization, propelling digital transformation. The article underscores the critical need for enhanced security measures to protect sensitive data and ensure user privacy. Ongoing price competitions among cloud providers and heightened regulatory scrutiny are also examined, underscoring the dynamic nature of cloud computing. By offering insights into the past, present, and future trajectory of cloud computing, this article affirms its pivotal role in driving digital innovation and empowering organizations to thrive in an interconnected world. In conclusion, the article provides recommendations for businesses to leverage emerging technologies and effectively navigate evolving challenges in the realm of cloud computing.

Revolutionizing America's Cloud Computing the Pivotal Role of AI in Driving Innovation and Security

Cloud computing represents a transformative approach to delivering IT services via an interconnected network of servers, collectively referred to as the "Cloud." This virtualized environment seamlessly integrates networks, servers, applications, storage, and services, facilitating convenient access for users with minimal administrative overhead. This comprehensive review article centers on two fundamental pillars of cloud computing: virtualization and containerization. It examines their groundbreaking influence on resource management and deployment efficiency. Additionally, the paper explores upcoming trends and challenges expected to shape the cloud computing landscape from 2025 to 2030.An emphasis is placed on the anticipated adoption of hybrid and multi-cloud strategies, providing organizations with tailored solutions while reducing the risks associated with vendorlock-in. The emergence of edge computing is highlighted as a key solution to address latency concerns and foster a competitive environment for the Internet of Things (IoT). Furthermore, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning within cloud frameworks is poised to unlock new avenues of innovation and optimization, propelling digital transformation. The article underscores the critical need for enhanced security measures to protect sensitive data and ensure user privacy. Ongoingprice competitions among cloud providers and heightened regulatory scrutiny are also examined, underscoring the dynamic nature of cloud computing. By offering insights into the past, present, and future trajectory of cloud computing, this article affirms its pivotal role in driving digital innovation and empowering organizations to thrive in an interconnected world. Inconclusion, the article provides recommendations for businesses to leverage emerging technologies and effectively navigate evolving challenges in the realm of cloud computing.

Next-Generation Billing Systems: The Smart eBill Revolution

Efficient monitoring of electrical consumption is essential for promoting energy conservation and optimizing electricity usage. This project introduces a "Smart EBill System" using current and voltage sensors, along with an LCD display for real-time energy consumption tracking. The system aims to provide users with instant information on their electricity usage, helping them make informed decisions and promoting energy efficiency. This integration of sensors and a display offers an intelligent solution for smart and user-friendly electricity bill monitoring. In today's digital age, electronic billing systems have become a cornerstone of modern business operations, offering convenience, efficiency, and sustainability compared to traditional paper-based billing methods. However, as electronic billing systems evolve, there is a growing need for smarter, more intuitive solutions that enhance user experience, streamline processes, and leverage emerging technologies. This paper presents Smart eBill, a next-generation electronic billing system designed to address these evolving needs. Smart eBill integrates advanced features such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and data analytics to revolutionize the billing experience for businesses and consumers alike. The system employs AI algorithms to automate billing processes, including invoice generation, delivery, and payment reconciliation, reducing manual errors and administrative overhead. Furthermore, Smart eBill leverages machine learning techniques to analyze billing data and provide personalized insights and recommendations to users. By understanding user preferences, spending patterns, and historical data, the system offers tailored suggestions for optimizing billing arrangements, reducing costs, and improving financial management.

Revolutionizing collaborative auditing: A dynamic blockchain-based cloud storage framework for data updates and assurance

Effective data management has arisen as a major concern in today’s era of ubiquitous data generation from a plethora of intelligent gadgets. While data proliferation promises unparalleled benefits, it imposes significant storage and computing constraints, particularly on end-users with limited capabilities. To solve these difficulties, this article investigates the confluence of cloud storage, blockchain technology, public auditing, reputation systems, and dynamic auditing. Because of their low-cost data storage and processing capabilities, cloud computing services have grown in popularity, leading customers to embrace data outsourcing to reduce local administrative overhead. This study digs into a novel paradigm for ensuring the integrity and security of data stored in cloud environments using blockchain technology. Integrating public auditing systems enables visible and verifiable data audits, ensuring consumers of data trustworthiness. A reputation system is also included to build trust among cloud service providers and users, improving the overall trustworthiness of the ecosystem. The suggested system also includes dynamic auditing, which allows for real-time changes and data verification, reacting to the changing nature of cloud-stored information. This study provides a thorough examination of the architectural components, techniques, and protocols used in this novel approach. We illustrate the feasibility and usefulness of our approach in ensuring data integrity, security, and reliability in cloud storage systems through empirical analysis and case studies. The findings show the potential benefits of this integrated strategy to solving the issues posed by the modern digital landscape’s tremendous proliferation of data. Through the synergistic integration of cloud storage, blockchain technology, public auditing, reputation systems, and dynamic auditing, this research provides a holistic solution for managing data in the cloud while ensuring data integrity, security, and trust. This comprehensive strategy lays the way for a more robust and dependable cloud data management ecosystem, increasing user trust in cloud-based services.

Administration’s Share of Personnel in Veterans Health Administration and Private Sector Care

Health care administrative overhead is greater in the US than some other nations but has not been assessed in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA). To compare administrative staffing patterns in the VHA and private (non-VHA) sectors. This cross-sectional study was conducted using US employment data from 2019, prior to pandemic-related disruptions in health care staffing, and was carried out between January 14 and August 10, 2023. A nationally representative sample of federal and nonfederal personnel in hospitals and ambulatory care settings from the American Community Survey (ACS), all employees reported in VHA personnel records, and personnel in health insurance carriers and brokers tabulated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) were analyzed. VHA vs private sector health care employment, including 397 occupations grouped into 18 categories. The proportion of staff working in administrative occupations. Among 3 239 553 persons surveyed in the ACS, 122 315 individuals (weighted population, 12 501 185 individuals) were civilians working in hospitals or ambulatory care; of the weighted population, 12 156 988 individuals (mean age, 42.6 years [95% CI, 42.5-42.7 years]; 76.2% [95% CI, 75.9%-76.5%] females) were private sector personnel and 344 197 individuals (mean age, 46.2 years [95% CI, 45.7-46.7 years]; 63.8% [95% CI, 61.8%-65.8%] females) were federal employees. In clinical settings, administrative occupations accounted for 23.4% (95% CI, 23.1%-23.8%) of private sector vs 19.8% (95% CI, 18.1%-21.4%) of VHA personnel. After including 1 000 800 employees at private sector health insurers and brokers and 13 956 VHA Central Office personnel with administrative occupations, administration accounted for 3 851 374 of 13 157 788 private sector employees (29.3%) vs 77 500 of 343 721 VHA employees (22.5%). Physicians represented approximately 7% of personnel in the VHA (7.2% [95% CI, 6.1%-8.2%]) and private sector (6.5% [95% CI, 6.3%-6.7%]), while the VHA deployed more registered nurses (23.7% [95% CI, 21.6%-25.8%] vs 21.2% [95% CI, 20.9%-21.5%]) and social service personnel (6.3% [95% CI, 5.4%-7.1%] vs 4.9% [95% CI, 4.7%-5.0%]) than the private sector. In this study, administrative occupations accounted for a smaller share of personnel in the VHA compared with private sector care, a difference possibly attributable to the VHA's simpler financing system. These findings suggest that if staffing patterns in the private sector mirrored those of the VHA, nearly 900 000 fewer administrative staff might be needed.

Integrating Banking and Health Insurance for Secure Future

Abstract -In an era marked by technological advancements and interconnected financial services, the integration of banking and health insurance emerges as a strategic approach to foster a secure future for individuals. This conceptual framework envisions a seamless synergy between the banking and health insurance sectors, leveraging data analytics, blockchain technology, and artificial intelligence to enhance customer experiences, mitigate risks, and promote overall financial well- being. The integration process involves the convergence of financial and health data, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of an individual's financial and health profile. Through secure data sharing mechanisms and advanced analytics, this integrated system enables personalized financial and health planning, ensuring that individuals are better equipped to manage unforeseen medical expenses without compromising their overall financial stability. Blockchain technology plays a pivotal role in establishing a secure and transparent infrastructure for data sharing and transaction processing. Smart contracts, built on blockchain, automate claims processing and facilitate real-time settlement, reducing administrative overhead and enhancing efficiency in the health insurance domain. Additionally, the decentralized nature of blockchain ensures the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive health and financial information. Artificial intelligence further enhances the integrated system by providing predictive analytics and risk assessment tools. By analyzing individual health data, spending patterns, and lifestyle choices, AI algorithms can predict potential health risks and recommend personalized insurance and financial products. This proactive approach not only empowers individuals to make informed decisions but also allows insurers and banks to offer targeted solutions that align with customers' evolving needs. Furthermore, the integration of banking and health insurance creates opportunities for innovative financial products, such as health savings accounts linked to investment portfolios. This dual-purpose approach encourages individuals to save for both their short-term medical needs and long-term International Journal of Scientific Research in Engineering and Management (IJSREM) Volume: 08 Issue: 01 | January - 2024 SJIF Rating: 8.176 ISSN: 2582-3930 © 2024, IJSREM | www.ijsrem.com DOI: 10.55041/IJSREM28065 | Page 2 financial goals, fostering a culture of financial responsibility and resilience. Keywords :- Integrated Financial Services,Data Analytics ,Blockchain Technology,Artificial Intelligence,Predictive Analytics,Risk Assessment ,Smart Contracts,Personalized Financial Planning ,Health Insurance Innovation

Asymmetric information issues in micro-business financing of Baitul Maal wa Tamwil

Purpose – Despite its potential advantages, poverty interferes with economic progress in developing countries, obstructing small and medium-sized businesses from obtaining external financial assistance via Islamic microfinance. This study explores the problems related to asymmetric information in the context of funding microbusinesses in Baitul Maal wa Tamwil (BMT), with the goal of improving our understanding of the risks associated with financing in Islamic microfinance institutions, namely BMTs.Methodology – This research utilized a qualitative approach and content analysis to study BMTs in Indonesia, involving academics, practitioners, and voluntary participants. The sample size was adequate for achieving data saturation.Finding – This study demonstrates that there might be asymmetric information during the execution of contracts, leading to deviant behavior by BMT management and partners. The study additionally identified the risk characteristics present in Islamic MFIs, emphasizing the necessity for implementing novel lending mechanisms, such as group lending and individual collateralized loans. Implication – This study underscores the importance of resolving the substantial administrative overheads associated with these institutions. It is advisable to utilize additional research methods such as interviews, observations, and documentation to augment the depth of the research and engage a varied array of individuals for a comprehensive collection of information.Originality – Studies of Islamic microfinance in Indonesia have examined its performance, obstacles, and experience. However, empirical data on agency problems such as moral hazard and asymmetric knowledge are lacking. For optimal BMT operating efficiency and Shariah compliance, it is essential to comprehend these challenges.

Blockchain Applications in CRM for Supply Chain Management

In today's fast-paced business world, effective Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and Supply Chain Management (SCM) are crucial for companies aiming to stay competitive and meet the ever-evolving demands of their customers. Enter blockchain technology – a revolutionary tool that's transforming the way businesses handle these core functions. This abstract explores the promising applications of blockchain in CRM for supply chain management, highlighting its potential to enhance transparency, security, and efficiency. Blockchain's decentralized ledger system offers an immutable record of transactions, ensuring that all parties in the supply chain have access to the same, unalterable data. This transparency builds trust among suppliers, manufacturers, and customers, reducing the risk of fraud and discrepancies. In the realm of CRM, blockchain can create a more accurate and comprehensive view of customer interactions, preferences, and histories. By securely linking customer data across different platforms, businesses can provide a more personalized and consistent customer experience. Moreover, blockchain's smart contracts automate and streamline processes by executing predefined actions when certain conditions are met. This can significantly reduce administrative overhead and speed up transactions in the supply chain, leading to faster deliveries and better resource management. Additionally, the enhanced security features of blockchain protect sensitive customer and transaction data from cyber threats, fostering a safer business environment. The integration of blockchain in CRM and SCM isn't just a technological upgrade; it's a strategic move that can lead to greater operational efficiency, improved customer satisfaction, and a stronger competitive edge. As businesses continue to explore and adopt blockchain solutions, the synergy between these technologies promises to revolutionize the landscape of customer and supply chain management. This abstract delves into these transformative possibilities, showcasing how blockchain is poised to redefine the future of CRM and SCM.

Virtual credit and debit card issuing system

Malawi's technological landscape is rapidly evolving across various sectors, including finance and business, driven by innovative individuals who are constantly pushing the boundaries of innovation. The internet plays a pivotal role in this transformation, enabling seamless online transactions that have become integral to modern financial practices. This technological evolution relies heavily on advanced payment methods, including traditional options like Visa cards and cutting-edge cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin. The practicality of implementing a Virtual Card Issuing System to address key concerns like security, transaction speed, spending control, and cost savings is evident and increasingly necessary. Due to the digital nature of virtual cards, they inherently mitigate risks associated with physical cards, offering significant resistance to loss or theft. They provide precise spending control for both individuals and businesses, ensuring that expenditures can be monitored and managed with great accuracy. Additionally, rapid decentralized (blockchain) transaction processing ensures customer engagement by facilitating quick and efficient transactions, fostering loyalty, and enhancing profitability. Furthermore, the proposed system optimizes cash flow management, extends float periods, and introduces new income-generation opportunities. These features are particularly beneficial in a dynamic economic environment, as they allow businesses to maintain liquidity and leverage financial resources more effectively. Additional key findings of the study highlight that virtual cards can significantly reduce administrative overhead and fraud detection costs. They also facilitate real-time expense tracking and reporting, which enhances financial transparency and accountability, making financial oversight more straightforward and less time-consuming. Moreover, the study underscores that virtual cards offer a scalable solution that can grow with the needs of both small enterprises and large corporations, providing flexibility and adaptability in an ever-changing market. In the context of Malawi's growing technological landscape, this project holds significant promise for enhancing financial efficiency and security. It aligns with the nation's digital aspirations by encouraging broader economic growth, digital literacy, and the widespread adoption of digital financial tools. By fostering a more secure and efficient financial environment, the implementation of a Virtual Card Issuing System can contribute to the overall economic development of Malawi. It can empower individuals and businesses alike, providing them with the tools necessary to thrive in a digital economy. As a result, this initiative not only supports current technological trends but also lays a foundation for future innovations.

Secure and Efficient Crop Tracking in Agriculture using Block chain

Crop tracking and traceability are crucial aspects of the modern agriculture supply chain, ensuring the safety and authenticity of products for consumers while improving efficiency and reducing waste. This paper presents a secure and efficient solution for crop tracking in agriculture by leveraging blockchain technology. The proposed system employs distributed ledger technology to record and verify the journey of crops from the field to the consumer, enhancing transparency and accountability. We explore the integration of smart contracts to automate key supply chain processes, such as quality assessment and payment settlement. Our solution not only strengthens the security of crop data but also streamlines the supply chain, reducing administrative overhead. We demonstrate the feasibility of our approach through a practical implementation, highlighting the benefits of blockchain in agriculture supply chain management.