Adoption Of Innovations Research Articles

The impact of FinTech/Blockchain Adoption on Corporate ESG and DEI Performance

Monitoring a company's efficiency is one of its primary responsibilities. There are many approaches in our contemporary society that either use IT or the conventional technique. Methods for measuring efficiency fall into three primary categories: parametric, nonparametric, and ratio indicators. We prioritize a firm's inputs and outputs when choosing metrics to measure efficiency. Establishing objectives and goals in entrepreneurship necessitates a thorough comprehension, appreciation, and knowledge of sustainability, and assessing the economic growth quality of a corporation is an essential task for theoretical and empirical sustainability assessment. When measuring the efficiency of entrepreneurship in terms of achieving desired values of macroeconomic indicators (e.g., sustainable economic growth objectives), data envelopment analysis (DEA), a widely used technique in efficiency analysis, has taken into account the economic, environmental, and social impact of entrepreneurship as the three dimensions of sustainability. The objective of this paper is to test the influence of FinTech/Blockchain adoption on corporate ESG and DEI performances using a novel DEA approach for sustainable development assessment. It highlights the significance of using a scalable technique for ESG efficiency study and gives scholars a more thorough viewpoint on the subject. In a collection of 50 enterprises, a DEA model was utilized for the analysis. For sustainable performance assessment using the proposed DEA technique, we defined as inputs six financial metrics, and as outputs 11 ESG/Blockchain adoption, and four DEI quality metrics to measure the firm’s efficiency. The annual business data was gathered between 2017 and 2023. In all country situations we discovered that, when DEI initiatives mediate, there is a strong correlation between ESG corporate performance and the quality of economic growth (particularly in the innovation and integrity blockchain adoption performance success metrics). Our study provides additional in-depth details on the FinTech/blockchain adoption environment in comparison to the findings of previous researchers. The sustainable entrepreneurship performance (a latent variable regarded as a dependent target factor) is calculated using eight (8) factors as observed variables, which is the first to consider the dynamics of ESG/BCA and DEI quality metrics as DEA outputs. The study also examines the mediating role of DEI corporate initiatives. By conducting an empirical investigation, the suggested scalable framework makes it evident which company is more efficient in moving toward sustainability, assisting corporate management in increasing the effectiveness of economic growth.

The adoption of fast payment systems (FPS) in Latin America: the role of financial literacy and cash-related beliefs

PurposeIn this paper, we ask: how do individual factors affect individuals’ intentions of adopting fast payment systems (FPS)? We examine the role of financial literacy and beliefs about cash as individual-related variables that complement the technology acceptance model (TAM) in explaining the individuals’ intention to adopt financial innovations.Design/methodology/approachWe surveyed consumers in 11 Latin American countries to measure relevant variables. By applying structural equation modeling, we extended the TAM. We demonstrated that financial literacy and beliefs about cash contribute to developing a fine-grained understanding of what stimulates individuals’ adoption of financial innovations like FPS.FindingsOur results support the claim that individuals with higher levels of financial literacy exhibit a higher intention to adopt FPS through the mediation role of beliefs about cash, perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use and attitude.Practical implicationsTo improve FPS’s acceptance probability, designers must add highly usable platforms. However, it could be more important to increase the perceived usefulness of FPS as the system competes directly with traditional payment methods such as cash. If individuals exhibit strong positive beliefs about cash, their attitudes and intentions of adopting FPS will decrease. In addition, policymakers and designers may modify beliefs about cash individuals exhibit by identifying and intervening in their determinants (e.g. financial literacy).Originality/valueBesides technology-related factors, we demonstrate that beliefs about alternative technologies (e.g. cash) influence the intention to adopt financial innovations like FPS.

Bridging the AI Divide: Human and Responsible AI in News and Media Industries

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing media and journalism, reshaping processes, content, and audience relationship. This editorial report discusses the opportunities and challenges AI brings to these industries raised by this collection of studies, emphasizing the importance of integrating ethical principles and human-centric approaches to its development. These articles examine how AI reshapes content creation, distribution, and audience interaction while addressing the ethical, political, and economic implications of its integration. Key contributions include discussions on the ethical challenges posed by AI—such as bias, transparency, and accountability—and the need for robust governance structures to foster trust and fairness in AI-driven media systems. A recurring theme in this issue is the AI divide, highlighting the disparity in access to AI technologies between the Global North and South. The special issue offers insights into how this divide exacerbates existing inequalities in media production and consumption. It also advocates for interdisciplinary approaches and collaborative efforts to ensure AI's benefits are equitably distributed across geographical and socio-economic contexts. By exploring both the opportunities and perils of AI adoption in media and news industries, this special issue serves as a comprehensive examination of the evolving relationship between AI, media, and society, offering pathways for responsible innovation and inclusive AI adoption worldwide.

Strategy for Improving Business Performance in Micro and Small Enterprises through Innovation and Digitalization

This study aims to examine strategies for enhancing business performance in micro and small enterprises (MSEs) through the integration of innovation and digitalization. In an era where digital transformation has become critical for competitiveness, MSEs face unique challenges due to limited resources, constrained access to technology, and often limited technical expertise. Using a qualitative approach through library research and literature review, this study synthesizes current research on the role of innovation and digital adoption in boosting productivity, expanding market reach, and improving operational efficiencies in MSEs. Findings reveal that innovation and digitalization not only facilitate access to broader customer bases but also enable cost-effective marketing and streamlined operations. Additionally, the analysis indicates that overcoming barriers such as technology adoption costs and skill gaps is essential for successful digital transformation in MSEs. Supportive policies, digital literacy training, and partnerships with technology providers emerge as critical components to foster a conducive environment for these enterprises. The study contributes to the ongoing discourse by identifying key success factors for MSEs embarking on digital and innovative transformations. Furthermore, it provides recommendations for policy makers, business owners, and stakeholders to enhance MSE resilience and competitiveness in a digitalized economy. This research underscores the importance of aligning digital strategies with business goals to ensure sustainable growth and adaptation in a rapidly evolving market landscape.

Exploring the acceptance of mixed reality technology innovation among mining industry workers

Mixed Reality (MR) technology is an innovative technology that has the capability to transform and boost productivity in the mining industry. At the same time, the scarcity of guidelines and research in examining the acceptance of MR technology innovation in the mining sector could make the adoption of MR technology innovation unpredictable. Therefore, in order to support the successful adoption of MR technology innovation in the mining sector, this manuscript is designed to better understand the factors influencing its acceptance among workers. Based on the literature review, five factors are hypothesized to influence the acceptance of mining industry workers regarding MR technology innovation. The factors underwent testing on a sample of 253 mining industry workers, which was obtained via an office-intercept survey and processed using SmartPLS software. The model has proven to be highly robust, as indicated by its outstanding scores in validity, reliability, multicollinearity, and goodness of fit. The results from the analysis indicate that attitude, perceived usefulness, and perceived compatibility are significant factors influencing the acceptance of MR technology innovation. While perceived novelty is an important factor affecting attitude, it does not significantly impact the acceptance of MR technology innovation. Moreover, perceived ease of use was not found to be a significant factor in influencing the attitude and intention to adopt MR technology innovation. This research offers both theoretical and managerial implications for its findings.

Mendekatkan Rumput Laut ke Masyarakat: Program Sosialisasi dan Pendidikan untuk Peningkatan Ekonomi Desa Ulidang, Majene

Ulidang Village, part of the Tameroddo Sub-district, has excellent potential in the fisheries and marine sector, although it still faces significant economic challenges. The potential of seaweed as a marine resource that has yet to be fully utilized is the focus of this activity. The main objective is to provide comprehensive counseling on the potential of seaweed, including cultivation methods, nutritional content, and business management aspects. This activity's implementation stage starts with planning, program implementation, and evaluation. The research results showed that socialization efforts, including explanations of seaweed potential, business management, and farming profit simulations, have provided the community with a deep understanding. The pretest and post-test evaluations illustrated the improvement in participants' understanding after the socialization activities. Thus, the development of seaweed farming in Ulidang Village can be a solution to improve community welfare, create jobs, and care for the marine environment. Strategic steps include strong partnerships, community empowerment, and adoption of innovations to ensure the sustainability of seaweed farming at the local and national levels.

SMEs’ dependency on large corporations’ technology for sustainability in the United States

Introduction/Background: This study discusses how small and medium-sized firms (SMEs) depend on major corporations for key technology resources that support sustainability initiatives. While SMEs contribute considerably to economic development and innovation, they typically rely on bigger enterprises for access to new technology and market possibilities. This partnership gives SMEs benefits like greater operational efficiency and global market access but also creates obstacles such as budgetary limits and technical reliance. The essay explores techniques for SMEs to effectively exploit new technologies, balancing partnership with larger firms while retaining their autonomy and competitiveness in a quickly shifting business climate focused on sustainability. Materials and Methods: The materials used for this study were sourced from different databases which include scholarly journal articles, reports, and government gazette and policy papers in the areas of business, small and medium scale enterprises, entrepreneurship, management and economics. The inclusive criteria ensured that only those articles that investigated the merits and demerits of SMEs dependence on large corporation were utilised. The review of literature was conducted on 50 documents published between 2009 and 2024. Results: The findings as revealed from the reviewed literature revealed the different merits and demerits of SMEs dependence on large corporation. Case studies of Tesla, Microsoft, Walmart, and Amazon demonstrate the intricate reliance of SMEs on major firms in the United States. Tesla's reliance on SMEs for crucial components like batteries underlines the reciprocal advantages and dangers involved, since SMEs' stability rests on Tesla's performance. Microsoft helps SMEs through initiatives that stimulate innovation and technology adoption, boosting their capabilities. Walmart gives SMEs with access to huge distribution networks, enabling sales growth. Similarly, Amazon's platform gives SMEs tremendous market reach but also brings issues in competitiveness and price. Together, these instances show the potential and challenges SMEs confront in their relationships with bigger enterprises. Discussion: Encouraging supplier growth and enhancing supply chain resilience are vital for establishing a sustainable SME environment. Policymakers may promote SMEs through mentorship programs, financial aid, and tax incentives for partnership with large enterprises. Addressing financial impediments with targeted funding and boosting skills development through collaborations with educational institutions would help SMEs embrace new technology. Additionally, establishing technology-sharing activities and developing a legal framework that supports fair competition are vital. Fostering innovation among SMEs and supporting sustainable practices will eventually boost their competitiveness and contribute to broader economic and environmental goals, benefitting both SMEs and bigger organizations. Conclusion: The reliance of SMEs on big corporations provides noteworthy hurdles and possibilities that require for the adoption of effective government involvement. Through the elimination of financial obstacles, the upgrading of technical skills, the promotion of fair competition, and the encouragement of innovation and sustainability, governments may build a fair climate that enables SMEs to prosper alongside bigger firms. This approach not only allows SMEs access to resources and contemporary technology, but it also stimulates economic variety and creativity, which in turn contributes to continuous development and competitiveness in a dynamic market.

Strategic Formation of Agricultural Market Clusters in Ukraine: Emerging as a Global Player

This study investigates the cluster approach to optimize strategies for agricultural enterprises in Ukraine, emphasizing geographical proximity as a key factor in cluster formation. The research applies Kohonen Self-Organizing Maps (SOMs) and Ward’s hierarchical clustering to classify enterprises based on storage capabilities, transport logistics, crop yields, and military risk exposure. By analyzing these factors, this study identifies distinct patterns of innovation adoption, strategic management, and economic resilience among the clusters. The findings highlight variations in competitiveness and resource efficiency, providing a detailed understanding of regional economic performance. Unlike previous research, this study offers a novel integration of conflict-related risks into the clustering methodology, revealing new insights into how military factors influence cluster dynamics. Comprehensive maps and diagrams illustrate the spatial and economic distribution of clusters, aiding in visual interpretation. The results propose strategic measures tailored to enhance agricultural productivity and competitiveness, particularly in Ukraine’s current military context. This approach offers a more adaptive framework for managing agricultural enterprises, promoting resilience and long-term sustainability in global markets.

Examining the impact of artificial intelligence on employee performance in the digital era: An analysis and future research direction

A new era of digital transformation has begun with the rapid integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology with human management, changing traditional methods to people management. Due to the unprecedented digital transitions that businesses are seeing, AI integration in Human resource management (HRM) has become a significant area of focus. This systematic literature critically examines how AI is altering the landscape of its impact on employee performance in the HRM area in the era of digital transformation. The Scopus database, where 73 peer-reviewed articles are found These are subjected to integrated methodology of Bibliometric analysis, Content analysis, Epistemological analysis and Substantive analysis to identify the emerging themes, trends and contribution of theory in the AI impact on the employee performance in digital transformation era. The results identifies the major themes a) Digital Transformation in HRM for enhancing Efficiency b) Deep learning and neural networks in HRM c) Innovation and Technology adoption in HRM and d) Human resource investments. From the epistemological analysis results “Resource Based theory,” has been mentioned highest (4 times) and shows how HRM is evolving in the context of digital change. With 3 instances each, institutional theory with empirical study is being the most common method. Substantive analysis shows the Digital Transformation, Employee Performance, Work life balance, and Organisational change are the significant criteria, whereas sub-criteria included Innovation, performance management, and Techno stress. Additionally, it investigates the challenges and opportunities arising from how AI is incorporated into HRM procedures and its implications for workforce dynamics. The study has proposed a model of 3 major criteria and 14 sub criteria for future research actions based on substantive analysis. AI integration in HRM requires strategic planning, ethical considerations, and employee well-being. Organisations that recognise these consequences and handle issues will be more prepared for AI-driven HRM.

Implementing AI-Driven Bed Sensors: Perspectives from Interdisciplinary Teams in Geriatric Care

Sleep is a crucial aspect of geriatric assessment for hospitalized older adults, and implementing AI-driven technology for sleep monitoring can significantly enhance the rehabilitation process. Sleepsense, an AI-driven sleep-tracking device, provides real-time data and insights, enabling healthcare professionals to tailor interventions and improve sleep quality. This study explores the perspectives of an interdisciplinary hospital team on implementing Sleepsense in geriatric hospital care. Using the interpretive description approach, we conducted focus groups with physicians, nurses, care aides, and an activity worker. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) informed our thematic analysis to identify barriers and facilitators to implementation. Among 27 healthcare staff, predominantly female (88.89%) and Asian (74.1%) and mostly aged 30–50 years, themes emerged that Sleepsense is perceived as a timesaving and data-driven tool that enhances patient monitoring and assessment. However, barriers such as resistance to change and concerns about trusting the device for patient comfort and safety were noted, while facilitators included training and staff engagement. The CFIR framework proved useful for analyzing implementation barriers and facilitators, suggesting future research should prioritize effective strategies for interdisciplinary team support to enhance innovation adoption and patient outcomes in rehabilitation settings.

Experiential education, customer knowledge and adoption of electric vehicles: an exploratory study

ABSTRACT While previous research has primarily explored functional and informational drivers, this study investigates how experiential education can facilitate electric vehicle adoption. Based on the BMW i3 test drive program case and blogs data, this research identifies two types of customers who participate in such programs: early adopters who have a high level of perceptual knowledge about electric vehicles but a low interest in the brand or the model, and the early majority, i.e. users with a moderate level of perceptual knowledge about electric vehicles and are hesitant to adopt it. This research contributes to the literature on customer education by demonstrating the positive role of experiential education in innovation adoption. Additionally, it contributes to the literature on customer knowledge by showing that customers do not participate in experiential education for the same reason. While early adopters compare similar models in the market, the early majority seek answers to technical questions.

Exploring consumers’ innovative products adoption process: based on technology readiness and value-based adoption

ABSTRACT This study seeks to empirically verify whether technology readiness composed of facilitating factor and inhibiting factor, affects consumer’s decision on innovation adoption. In addition, in an attempt to explore the mediation mechanism, the study sought to confirm whether technology readiness impacts consumers’ adoption decision through the dual paths, employing double sided perceptions with regards to perceived benefits and perceived sacrifices of the innovation. Finally, the study examines the moderating effect of psychological distance on the relationships between perceived benefits (and sacrifices) and adoption intention. Result of the study revealed that innovativeness affects the intention to adopt innovative products. Perceived benefits (and sacrifices) mediated the relationship between technology readiness and the intention to adopt innovative products. Finally, the study confirmed that the psychological distance moderates the relationship between perceived benefits (and sacrifices) and the intention to adopt innovative products.

Dissemination Approaches that Enhance Adoption of Climate Resilient TIMPS for Pigeon Pea, Sorghum and Green Grams Value Chains in Machakos County, Kenya

Dissemination approaches play a key role in facilitating the adoption of climate smart technologies, innovations and management practices among farmers. Various approaches used in Kenya include the top down approaches and bottom up approaches. This study was conducted to determine and validate dissemination approaches that enhance sustainable adoption of climate resilient TIMPs for Sorghum, Green grams and pigeon peas value chains among farmers in Machakos county. The objectives included: to Identify dissemination approaches for TIMPS in sorghum, green grams and pigeon peas in Machakos county, to assess the frequency of use of dissemination approaches for TIMPS by stakeholders and to determine the stakeholders’ perception on the effectiveness of the dissemination approaches for TIMPS. The study used a survey research design where 27 key informants comprising champion farmers and extension service providers were purposively selected for data collection. The descriptive analysis was conducted using the SPSS version 16. A weighted index was computed to aid comparison for various values chains and categories. The results showed that farmer-to-farmer (96%) and T&V (88.9%) dissemination approaches were the frequently used dissemination approaches whereas education institution (14.81%) was the least used dissemination approach in the three value chains in the county. Farmer to farmer effectiveness was ranked highest in Sorghum and Green grams while the T&V was highest for Pigeon peas Enhanced utilization of farmer-to-farmer, T&V and demand driven dissemination approaches for enhance adoption of green grams, pigeon peas and sorghum for improved productivity and household income.

Dynamic interactions between GDP, renewable energy, innovation, and CO2 emissions in Finland: a fourier-augmented ARDL analysis

This study uses the novel Fourier-augmented ARDL (FARDL) to explore the impact of renewable energy (REN), the number of patent applications (PA) and GDP per capita on CO2 emissions in Finland during 1990–2022. The findings reveal that in the long run, GDP rises CO2 emissions, while REN and PA decrease CO2 emissions. The FARDL short-run results indicate that both REN and PA have a significant negative impact on CO2 emissions, suggesting that higher adoption of renewable energy and technological innovation contribute to emission reductions. However, GDP does not show a significant effect in the short run, which may indicate a decoupling of economic growth from environmental degradation in the short term. Furthermore, the study highlights the need for policies that promote technological innovation and increased investment in renewable energy to achieve sustainable carbon reduction in the long term.

The influence of innovation, knowledge management, and e-commerce adoption on MSME performance, and its impact on MSMEs sustainability

In the current digital age, financial development has seen substantial shifts, particularly in buying and selling activities that are now facilitated by digital technology or electronic transactions (e-commerce), which offer convenience at relatively low costs. However, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which play a crucial role in the economy, must adapt to these advancements to sustain and grow their businesses. Despite the widespread adoption of e-commerce, many MSMEs have yet to fully capitalize on this technology. Limited knowledge often leads to hesitation in embracing e-commerce opportunities. Consequently, this study seeks to explore how innovation, information management, and e-commerce adoption impact MSME performance and its implications for business sustainability. The research targets MSME owners and managers in the Jabodetabek area (Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, Tangerang, and Bekasi) and nearby regions, with a sample of 420 individuals selected through random sampling. Data was collected through an online survey (Google Forms) administered to MSME management. The survey items were tested for validity and reliability, and the data analysis was conducted using various regression analyses with SEM-PLS and Smart-PLS3. The study’s findings highlight the following key points: 1) E-commerce adoption significantly enhances information management, which supports MSME sustainability; 2) E-commerce adoption also improves performance through better information management, further promoting MSME sustainability; 3) While technology is important, e-commerce adoption is the primary factor driving MSME sustainability, with technology serving as a secondary factor.

A Comprehensive Overview on Sustainable Vegetable Gardening: Eco-friendly Approaches to Home Grown Production

Sustainable vegetable gardening is an eco-friendly practice that integrates organic farming principles, resource conservation, and biodiversity promotion to produce nutritious, chemical-free food while minimizing environmental impact. This approach emphasizes soil health through the use of organic amendments, crop rotation, composting, and mulching to improve fertility and water retention. Water conservation techniques, such as drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting, are employed to optimize water use, especially in arid regions. Pest and disease management relies on integrated pest management (IPM), biological controls, companion planting, and the use of organic pesticides to reduce chemical input while maintaining crop health. Sustainable homegrown produce has been shown to have superior nutritional content compared to commercially grown produce, and the avoidance of synthetic chemicals reduces the risk of pesticide residue exposure. Gardening fosters healthy eating habits by connecting individuals to their food sources, encouraging the consumption of fresh, unprocessed vegetables, and contributing to food security. The mental and physical health benefits of gardening, including reduced stress, increased physical activity, and improved mental well-being, further highlight its holistic value. However, challenges such as the initial setup costs, time investment, pest management, and knowledge gaps can hinder widespread adoption. Addressing these challenges requires greater access to resources, educational initiatives, and the development of climate-resilient practices tailored to specific regions. Future trends in sustainable gardening include the adoption of technological innovations, such as smart irrigation systems, automation, and vertical farming, which offer scalable solutions for urban and small-scale gardeners. The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of resilient, local food systems, and sustainable gardening is poised to play a critical role in addressing future food security concerns.

Healthcare innovation adoption in Africa: the case of long-lasting insecticide nets in Ghana using protection motivation theory

Objective Studies have shown that healthcare innovation adoption is complex. Using Long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs), an innovation for malaria prevention, the study aimed to understand factors considered in the adoption of healthcare innovations in Africa. Methods and Measures Using qualitative methods, we interviewed 10 household heads in Ghana who had freely received LLINs during a malaria campaign. We analyzed our data using a deductive thematic analysis approach utilizing the protection motivation theory (PMT) as our framework. Results We found that the constructs of PMT: perceived severity, perceived vulnerability, perceived response efficacy, and perceived self-efficacy influenced the adoption of healthcare innovation (i.e. LLINs). We also found that misconceptions about malaria infection and prevention influenced the perceived response efficacy of LLINs which could undermine LLINs usage. Conclusion The constructs of PMT are important in the decision to use LLINs. Misconceptions about malaria infection and prevention could undermine the decision to use LLINs. Future studies should investigate ways to address these misconceptions.

Does the European Union Start-Up Aid Help Young Farmers to Innovate and to Join Networks?

The endurance and vitality of European agriculture are threatened by the aging of farmers, together with the lack of generational change. The small share of young farmers also impacts on the innovative capacity and competitiveness of the sector. The Common Agricultural Policy of the European Union started addressing the issue long ago by providing financial aid to help young farmers to start up. Over time, the aid increased and packages of measures were set to reinforce the aid and to promote investments, innovations, and networks at the farm level. While the literature focuses on analyzing the effectiveness of the start-up aid in fostering new entries, this paper assumes an original perspective as it seeks to assess whether this aid has actually promoted innovations and networks in the beneficiary farms. The analysis relies on sample data collected in 2021 in Italy and Poland via interviews of 500 farmers under 40 who had entered the sector both with and without the aid. A probit model estimates whether the beneficiaries have a higher probability to innovate and network. Then, the contribution of the aid to the intensity of the adoption of innovations and networks is estimated via an Average Treatment Effect on the Treated model (ATT). Results suggest that the start-up aid increased the adoption of innovations and networks. The ATT indicates that this positive effect holds even after correcting for self-selection bias. By adopting an original perspective, our analysis suggests that the start-up aid for young farmers goes beyond rejuvenating agriculture by fostering innovation at the farm level and by promoting networking, thus enhancing agricultural change. However, farmer behaviors in the two countries are different, suggesting quite complex patterns for the impact of this measure.

The Metaverse In Tourism

Purpose of the study: This study evaluates the metaverse and the technologies used within the tourism and hospitality sectors. Additionally, it provides an in-depth analysis of the areas in which these technologies are applied in tourism, as well as their contributions to the field. Methodology: To evaluate the role and effects of metaverse technology in the tourism sector, qualitative methods are utilized. A literature review was conducted as a data collection tool, and the information obtained from the literature review was interpreted in accordance with the purpose of the research. Main Findings: The main conclusion of this study is that the effective use of the metaverse in tourism will provide significant benefits for both businesses and tourists. This technology, with its potential to enhance the travel experience, is expected to become increasingly common in the future, offering a promising future for the tourism sector. Applications of the study: The adoption and integration of technological innovations are expected to significantly impact the dynamics of the tourism industry. Studies emphasize that metaverse innovations have not yet reached sufficient mass. However, there are also concerns that, in some cases, the metaverse could hinder the physical travel industry. Tourists experiencing a destination or even an airplane in a virtual environment may reduce their motivation to travel physically. In conclusion, technological innovations such as virtual reality and the metaverse present opportunities and threats for the tourism industry. Novelty/Originality of the study: The research's originality lies in its detailed exploration of the use of metaverse in the tourism sector. In addition, detailed evaluations of the usage areas and contributions of metaverse-related technologies in tourism are included. Therefore, it is thought that this study will not only contribute to the related literature but also guide researchers, sector employees, and other interested parties.

STREAMLINING REGULATORY DOCUMENTATION: EXPLORING THE COMMON TECHNICAL DOCUMENT (CTD) AND ELECTRONIC SUBMISSION, WITH EMPHASIS ON M SERIES ACCORDING TO ICH GUIDELINES

A number of regulatory bodies have worked together to create the Common Technical Document (CTD), including the United States Food and Drug Administration, the European Medicines Agency, and the Japanese Ministry of Health. This standardized format facilitates the collection and submission of regulatory documentation pertaining to applications for new medicines. Since its inception in 2000, the CTD has been widely adopted internationally, including by nations such as Canada, Australia, and India. The CTD aims to streamline the submission process, reduce duplication of effort, and facilitate regulatory evaluations by providing a uniform structure for technical documentation. This article outlines the guidelines and organization of the CTD, including its modules covering administrative information, quality, non-clinical studies, and clinical trials. The CTD’s significance lies in its ability to improve regulatory efficiency, promote data transparency, and expedite the availability of new medicines to patients. However, challenges persist, such as variations in regional requirements and the need for continued adaptation to evolving technological standards. Electronic submissions and improved information management are two ways in which the new electronic CTD (eCTD) has improved submission procedures. Despite some ongoing issues, the CTD and eCTD represent significant advancements in regulatory documentation, with the potential for further innovation and global adoption in the future.