Multiple Case Study Analysis Research Articles

Navigating the ecosystem of summertime activity choices for youth: a multiple case study analysis

ABSTRACT Summer in the United States is a complicated time for youth and families. While youth are free from the strictures of school and ripe with opportunities for personal growth, cobbling together summer experiences for them can be challenging, especially for low-income families. Currently, there is little research on summer as a developmental time and space and how parents and families decide to shape summer for their children. To address this gap in the literature, this study used a multiple case study approach, focusing on six families with different socioeconomic and racial backgrounds to understand the roles that structured and unstructured activities fill in their families’ summers. Using Bronfenbrenner’s process-person-context-time model, the authors explore how summer choices are shaped by a) parental attitudes, beliefs, values and experiences, b) child interests, needs, and opportunities for development of autonomy and independence, and c) other contextual factors such as logistic and cost constraints.

Institutional influences on healthcare service innovation: Lessons from German rehabilitation clinics.

In view of the growing need for rehabilitation worldwide due to demographic changes and health trends, healthcare organizations are facing increasing pressure to innovate. This study focuses on the institutional dynamics shaping service innovation in orthopedic rehabilitation settings in Germany. Using Scott's framework of institutional pillars and carriers, we conduct a multiple case study analysis. Based on interviews with physicians and managers from six different clinics, conducted in two rounds and supplemented by secondary data analysis, we investigate the influence of regulative, normative, and cultural-cognitive institutions on healthcare service innovation. By distinguishing between the various institutional barriers and facilitators, our research provides valuable insights for healthcare practitioners and managers, equipping them with the necessary knowledge to effectively navigate and utilize the institutional environment.

Business analytics affordances for supply chain value creation: A technology-organization-environment perspective

Despite the potential of business analytics (BA) in supply chains, many firms struggle to effectively integrate and leverage BA in their supply chains, leading to underutilized data and missed opportunities for optimization. Therefore, this study utilizes an affordance perspective to study the actualization of BA affordances within supply chains. We conduct a multiple case study analysis, interviewing 28 individuals across nine companies. Our investigation uncovers a hierarchy of intertwined affordances facilitating supply chain information management, cooperation, and customer-focused solutions. Significantly, we highlight the unique influence of technology, organization, and environmental (TOE) factors in shaping affordance actualization. As a result, we argue against generic prescriptions for BA affordance actualization, instead promoting a more tailored approach informed by specific TOE factors tied to each individual supply chain. Our work advances technology affordance research by explaining affordance actualization within supply chains and highlighting the dynamic interplay between TOE factors and BA affordance actualization. Subsequently, our research offers a nuanced understanding of BA implementation, demonstrating how tailored BA strategies can enhance supply chain optimization, cooperation, and customer-centric solutions, ultimately driving value creation for supply chains.

Establishing alternative grain networks: A comparison of case experiences in South Tyrol, Italy, and Colorado, United States

Alternative grain networks (AGNs) are micro-systems that supplement conventional food pro­duction and distribution systems, emphasizing high quality food and leveraging regional, socio-cultural, and socio-economic values. In this multiple case study analysis we compare two AGNs, Regiokorn in South Tyrol, Italy, and the Colorado Grain Chain (CGC) in the U.S., using qualitative and comparative analysis to explore the indicators of geographical proximity, cultural homogeneity, commercial viability, and community involvement. Regiokorn and the CGC differ in various ways in these operational dimensions as well as in their organizational setups, the former as a pure business network and the latter including consumer mem­bers. Our findings highlight how these two differ­ent organizational structures can be leveraged to achieve similar outcomes, and provide valuable insights for other AGNs in finding their own paths.

Resilience dimensions in health system performance assessments, European Union.

To explore the definition and operationalization of resilience in health system performance assessments in European Union countries. We conducted multiple empirical case study analyses. We identified relevant cases through a literature review from 2014 to 2023 using Google Scholar and through a snowball technique to retrieve additional information. We included only documents that explicitly mentioned resilience in health system performance assessments. We performed a content analysis to identify common patterns in defining resilience. The final sample consisted of six countries: Belgium, Croatia, Czechia, Estonia, Ireland and Italy. Each country adopted a distinct approach to conceptualizing resilience, with countries prioritizing specific aspects based on lessons learnt from the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Some countries focused on maintaining essential health-care services and protecting vulnerable groups. Other countries prioritized management capacity, staff preparedness, digital health utilization and strengthening of primary health care. Content analysis revealed six resilience definitions derived from the key performance indicators: addressing unmet needs and maintaining outcomes; protecting vulnerable groups; acquiring and using resources; having trained and prepared staff in place; using digital health; and strengthening primary health care. Integration of resilience into the health profiles of European Union countries preceded its inclusion in national health system performance assessments, the latter of which became more prominent after the COVID-19 pandemic. Variations in interpretations within health system performance assessments reflect differences in indicators and policy responses.

A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE DIGITAL COMPETENCIES DEVELOPMENT IN ADULT EDUCATION

In the context of an increasingly digitalized global economy, the integration of digital skills into adult education has become a crucial determinant of socio-economic mobility and inclusivity. Digital literacy serves as a foundational element for employment, social engagement, and access to essential services, making it imperative for adults to continuously adapt to technological advancements. This article aims to explore the critical need for embedding digital skills in adult education frameworks. It seeks to identify the core digital competencies required for effective participation in the digital world, assess the current barriers to digital literacy, and propose actionable strategies to enhance digital learning among adults. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining a comprehensive literature review, analysis of multiple international case studies (United States, Singapore, Sweden, Brazil, Estonia), expert interviews, and policy analysis. This methodology provides a broad perspective on the effectiveness of current digital skills programs and insights into best practices across different socio-economic and cultural contexts.The findings reveal that successful digital skills programs are often characterized by robust government support, partnerships with technology firms, tailored learning approaches that address specific demographic needs, and a strong emphasis on practical application. However, challenges such as keeping pace with rapid technological changes, ensuring program scalability, and overcoming socio-economic barriers persist. Recommendations for overcoming these challenges include adopting adaptive learning frameworks, fostering a culture of lifelong learning, enhancing access through improved infrastructure, and closely aligning education programs with market needs.

Navigating the National Qualifying Examination for School Heads: Insights from a Multiple Case Study Analysis

Navigating the National Qualifying Examination for School Heads: Insights from a Multiple Case Study Analysis

Key antecedents and consequences of blockchain technology adoption in the wine industry: a multiple case study analysis

PurposeThe present study aims to identify the antecedents and consequences of blockchain adoption in the wine industry from the absorptive capacity perspective through a multiple case study approach.Design/methodology/approachA multiple case study approach was utilized, wherein data was gathered through semi-structured interviews and secondary sources of information from the five Italian innovative wineries.FindingsThe results show that the dynamic capabilities of wineries and the creation of strategic partnerships are common conditions for the adoption of blockchain technology (BCT). In addition, findings reveal that creating value for all supply chain stakeholders and preventing counterfeit products are the most important consequences of BCT adoption.Research limitations/implicationsThis study fills a gap in the literature by investigating the drivers of BCT technology adoption under two theoretical lenses, Absorptive capacity and Dynamic capability theories, confirming the usefulness of these two theories in explaining the process of innovation adoption.Originality/valueThe originality of our research study lies in its investigation of the antecedents and consequences of BCT adoption in the wine supply chain, focusing specifically on the role of dynamic capabilities, knowledge acquisition and assimilation, strategic partnerships and open interactions with external actors in driving technological innovation and the successful implementation of BCT in the wine industry. By offering empirical data on the drivers and impacts of BCT adoption, as well as theoretical implications for technological innovation and value creation in the wine sector, our study contributes to filling gaps in the existing literature and provides practical insights for wineries and AgTechs seeking to integrate BCT into their business models.

Durability of decisions explained by actor-strategies in games: A multiple case study analysis

Public decision-making contains several decisions taken by multiple actors intended to lead to collective gains. The impact of these decisions varies over time. This paper presents a novel approach to explain the durability, i.e., impact, of decisions in relation to strategies performed by actors involved in infrastructure development projects. The concept of durability is operationalised in terms of actors fulfilling joint aims and creating joint focus. We aim to explain why some decisions have a durable (lasting and joint focus) impact and why other decisions have a non-durable (temporary and no joint focus) impact. Actor-strategies performed in the decision-making process are used to explain the different types of decision impact. After analysing several Dutch Railway projects, we discovered that durable decisions appear when (i) obstructive non-deciding and non-cooperative strategies are dealt with, (ii) responsibilities are clearly divided, (iii) the scope alternates between internal and external focus and coupling of issues happens, and (iv) the design of the decision-making process is made explicit and information asymmetry is managed.

Impact of Glucocorticoid Replacement Therapy on Nocturnal Hypoglycemia in Adrenal Insufficiency: An Analysis of Multiple Case Studies.

Adrenal insufficiency (AI) is a hormonal disorder characterized by insufficient glucocorticoid production. Nocturnal hypoglycemia (NH) occurs in patients with AI. However,the effect of glucocorticoid replacement therapy (GCRT) on AI and NH remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between AI and NH by evaluating the impact of GCRT on NH in patients newly diagnosed with AI. The present study was conducted between October 2018 and December 2022 at the Department of Diabetes, Metabolism and Endocrinology of the Tokyo Rosai Hospital, Japan. In total, 15 patients aged ≥18 years with newly diagnosed AI or NH were included in this study. The NH frequency was measured using continuous glucose monitoring (CGM). The primary outcome was the change in NH frequency before and after the GCRT intervention. GCRT significantly decreased NH frequency. Severe NH frequency and minimum nocturnal glucose levels changed significantly while fasting blood glucose and glycated hemoglobin levels did not change significantly. GCRT intervention improved CGM profiles' time below range, time in range, and average daily risk range. The present study suggests that GCRT can help newly diagnosed patients with AI manage NH. These findings show that CGM can detect NH in patients with newly diagnosed AI, determine the optimal GCRT dosage, and hence prevent an impaired quality of life and even serious adverse effects in these patients. Further large multicenter studies should validate these findings and delve deeper into the mechanistic link between AI and NH.

“We’ve Got History Now”: Victim and Justice-Involved Youth Experiences During Mediation Sessions

Victim-offense mediation (VOM) is the process by which victims of crime meet the involved youth, in the presence of trained mediators, to process and address the emotional and practical ramifications of the crime. We aimed to qualitatively understand the experiences of victims and justice-involved youth during mediation sessions. Participants were recruited from one American and one Canadian mediation center, We combined field observations, semi-structured interviews, and multiple case study analyses with reflexive thematic analysis to explore nine cases of VOM participants’ experiences of the process and its potential link with various desired outcomes immediately following VOM. We generated five themes: Attempting to Satisfy Mediation Needs, Apologies, The Gravitational Pull of Victims, Finding a Healing Connection, and Corrective Emotional Experience & Challenged Expectations. We discuss these themes, the importance of relational processes, the importance and potential burden of the compelling victim, corrective emotional experiences, and the potential role of the mediators.

Unpacking Digital Transformation: Identifying key enablers, transition stages and digital archetypes

This study aims to identify recurring Digital Transformation (DT) archetypes within firms and explore the capabilities and values associated with each archetype. Underpinned by the Resource-Based View (RBV) and Socio-Technical Systems (STS) theory, the study provides a framework explicating the enabling factors, their characteristics, interdependencies, operational capabilities, and resultant value creation within the context of digitalizing firm operations. Employing a deductive-inductive approach, an exhaustive literature review combined with an in-depth, multiple case study analysis of sixteen firms provides rich insights into the digital transformation journey. Findings reveal technology, data, human capital, processes, and organization structure as key enablers alongside their critical, complementary roles for transformation. Cross-case analysis identified instances of the DT framework, uncovering three archetypes: process efficiency, responsiveness, and strategic agility. Each archetype exhibits distinct socio-technical enabler configurations and improvements to business processes, resulting in unique operational capabilities and value generation. This research provides actionable guidance for managers in leveraging socio-technical enablers to achieve successful digital transformation. It underscores the need for tailored strategies, recognizing that a one-size-fits-all approach is inadequate. Managers must strategically select desired values and develop the necessary socio-technical system components, processes, and operational capabilities to attain them. OriginalityThis study develops digital archetypes of firm operations linking sociotechnical components, operational capabilities, and goals of firm operations. To the best of our knowledge, no prior research has developed such digital archetypes.

Comparison of lean cellular manufacturing organization models: Multiple case study analysis

Comparison of lean cellular manufacturing organization models: Multiple case study analysis

Sustainable development through quality management: a multiple-case study analysis of triumphs, trials and tribulations

PurposeIn a highly competitive and globalised era, agile organisations proactively steer towards sustainability. This situation persuaded the organisations to align Quality Management (QM) initiatives to achieve sustainable outcomes. This study aims to explore quality–sustainability linkage, explicitly focusing on attaining the prestigious IAQ Quality Sustainability Award. Further it investigates, the impact of QM as a strategy for promoting sustainability to meet sustainable development goals (SDGs).Design/methodology/approachDue to the lack of substantial literature connecting QM to sustainability, the current research adopted an explanatory multiple-case study. Six cases were purposively chosen for the study. Three cases of those who have achieved the prestigious IAQ Quality Sustainability Award and remaining have been selected that have fallen short of receiving the award. A detailed within-case and cross-case examinations involving six cases that reported their QM achievements aligned with SDGs.FindingsThe findings demonstrate the significant role of QM adoption in achieving positive results from the perspective of SDGs, such as reduced environmental impacts, improved operational efficiency and enhanced quality of life. Effective stakeholder collaboration, proficiency in analytical tools and strategic alignment with SDGs emerged as critical success factors. Conversely, weak linkage with sustainability and unclear approaches were crucial challenges in attaining the IAQ Quality Sustainability Award.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper outlines essential commandments for organisations actively seeking to promote sustainability. It offers valuable insights for decision-makers, facilitating a profound understanding of the challenges and opportunities in pursuing sustainable performance.Originality/valueThe distinctive nature of this study lies in its dedicated exploration of the intricate relationship between QM deployment and its true impact on the achievement of the SDGs.

Exploring the Health Behaviors of Young Adults Who Are Blind in South Korea

Introduction: Compared to sighted people, not only do people who are blind have multiple comorbidities and exhibit early mortality, but they also display high-risk health behaviors. To prevent problematic health behaviors affecting health-related quality of life and well-being, understanding the shared patterns of health behaviors among individuals with visual impairments, including blindness, is essential. Methods: This qualitative study explored the hidden constructs and patterns of health behaviors among employed young adults who are blind using a multiple case study analysis. Eight participants with self-reported total blindness were recruited via convenience sampling and recruitment postings. Results: The mean age was 27.43 ± 6.32 years with a range of 20–39 years. Seven males and one female completed the one-on-one telephone interviews. The study discovered eight patterns of health behaviors of young adults who are blind: (a) leading a sedentary lifestyle with physical inactivity, (b) eating irregularly and not cooking, (c) avoiding uncertainty and illness, (d) facing disability stigma in health care services, (e) seeking online information related to medical care, (f) sharing health-related information within the blind community, (g) receiving unreadable formats of health-related information, and (h) aiming for independence and autonomy in self-care. The following categorized health behavior constructs were extracted: perceived health problems, experiential attitude toward health care systems, health beliefs, perceived facilitators, and barriers. Discussion: The findings indicate that young adults who are blind prefer independent health-related activities. The identified problematic health behaviors were correlated to inaccessible healthcare resources. Implications for Practitioners: More accessible health resources enhancing the independence of young adults who are blind are needed to promote their health behaviors. For instance, more accessible fitness facilities and personalized exercise programs in workplaces and communities can motivate the physical activity of young adults who are blind.

Understanding Medical Technology Innovation in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: Factors, Impact, and a Model Proposal

The existing conceptual model for medical technology innovation management is a poor fit for low- and middle-income countries as it overlooks their unique challenges and constraints. The purpose of this article is to investigate key governing factors and underlying challenges and barriers of medical technology innovation in low- and middle-income countries and how they impact firm-level activities of innovation management. A two-fold qualitative research methodology was adopted for data collection, comprised of a literature review and multiple case study analyses via semi-structured interviews. A thematic coding approach and multiple theoretical perspectives were used for data analysis and drawing conclusions. The study identified 23 challenges and barriers to medical technology innovation, then categorized these under six factors: healthcare context and system, organizational capabilities, innovation ecosystem, demographic burdens and characteristics, market forces, and science and technology. It was found that compared to high-income countries, in low- and middle-income countries, issues associated with country-specific healthcare context and system, innovation ecosystem, and demographic burdens and characteristics influence innovation management activities and make medical technology innovation more challenging. The study contributes to the technology innovation model research by demystifying new factors and proposing a comprehensive conceptual model for understanding the roadmap of medical technology innovation and the influence of various factors on innovation management activities.

Implementation Practices of Reading Programs in Elementary Education in Davao De Oro: A Multiple Case Study

This research delves into the nuanced landscape of implementing reading programs for non-readers in Indigenous People (IP) schools, uncovering the experiences, challenges, and strategies encountered by school administrators and reading coordinators. The study, conducted in selected elementary schools in Davao De Oro, engages nine participants using a meticulously designed interview guide validated by experts. Adhering to ethical standards outlined in the Belmont Report, the data gathering process employs in-depth interviews, meticulously audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim to ensure reliability. The qualitative data undergoes a multiple case study analysis, following Creswell’s qualitative method. Addressing four research questions, the study explores the implementation of reading practices, roadblocks faced, management strategies employed, and insights gained from IP school programs. Emerging themes highlight the significance of continuous practice, contextualization of materials, routinary reading activities, differentiated programs, and alternative reading approaches. Identified roadblocks encompass challenges in fundamental reading skills mastery, parental support deficiencies, language transition difficulties, and hesitant attitudes toward reading practices. Management strategies applied by school heads and reading coordinators focus on delegation, orientation, hands-on activities, parental involvement, and budget allocation for diverse learners. Insights emphasize the imperative to develop significant reading skills, involve parents in reading and writing acquisition, master letter names and sounds, strengthen reading practices, and ignite the interest of diverse non-readers in mastering reading skills. This research enriches the education field by providing a holistic perspective on challenges and strategies in implementing reading programs for non-readers in IP schools. The findings underscore the necessity of a multifaceted approach, integrating skill development, parental involvement, and tailored strategies to sustain interest in reading among diverse learners.

Energy Security in National Security Strategies: A Multiple Case Study

The aim of the study is to identify energy security issues in the assumptions of national security strategic documents. The study seeks responses to the following research questions: (1) What aspects of energy security are included in national security strategies? (2) Are national security strategies oriented to a comprehensive approach combining the issue of energy security with economic competitiveness and environmental sustainability or to a narrow view of energy security as continuity of energy supplies? A multiple case study analysis of national strategic documents of selected NATO Member States — i.e., the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Poland, was employed to achieve the research aim.

Digital advancement and its effect on business model design: Qualitative-empirical insights

Disruptive technological change fosters the evolution of innovative, highly digital business models. However, few details are known of how digital advancement is reflected in business model design in detail. This paper analyses how digital advancement is reflected in the value architecture of business models. It highlights the specific relevance of distinct value elements for this innovation process, using a two-perspective multiple-case study analysis including 13 firms and 74 customers of the case firms. The data shows that digital business models are characterised by a value architecture design that allows for a high degree of customisation, a modular design of offerings, and extensive, real-time value co-creation. Furthermore, establishing digital business models is accompanied by the utilisation of stringent evaluation to ensure a continuous adaption to changing market settings. This study sheds new light on the effects of digital advancement on business model design, therefore contributing to business model and business model innovation research. It also advances customer acceptance research, as it combines both, a firm and a customer perspective.

INTERNATIONAL MARKETING STRATEGIES OF SMES IN THE DIGITAL AGE: ENTRY APPROACHES AND CHALLENGES

The objectives of this study included: understanding cross-border e-commerce business models and operations of SMEs, and analyzing entry strategies suitable for small- and medium-sized suppliers targeting ASEAN cross-border e-commerce. Through analysis of multiple case studies and secondary data, this study provides reference to SMEs looking to penetrate the ASEAN e-commerce market, thereby enhancing the innovative energy and scale of SMEs and the cross-border e-commerce service industry. The findings indicate that three strategies adopted by the case SMEs for cross-border e-commerce in the ASEAN market were: seeking third-party operators to perform marketing work, collaborating with overseas platforms, and building their own online platforms. Research results also found that when SMEs engage in cross-border e-commerce, their products, brands, and channels form the golden triangle of cross-border e-commerce and influence one another.