Advanced Business Research Articles

Open-Source vs. proprietary LLMs: The battle for innovation and accessibility

Large language models (LLMs) are constantly developing technology primarily concerned with artificial intelligence and natural language processing. Controversy has been focused on the competition between open-source and proprietary degrees in LLMs: innovation and accessibility. Popular open-source models demand democratizing information processing, enabling the general public to access and develop elaborate AI systems. While the first model is built in the common interest, being open to the public, the second model has commercial interests in mind to achieve business advantage points, and models may be limited. This article draws to acquire insights into the principal differences between both approaches regarding technological advancement, ethical aspects, and industry and societal influence. Therefore, the research intends to examine the different motives behind LLM approaches and their outcomes on how the two approaches advance innovation, its accessibility and the future advancement of artificial intelligence.

Unlocking competitive advantage in emerging markets through advanced business analytics frameworks

Unlocking competitive advantage in emerging markets through advanced business analytics frameworks

Compliance Behavior in Environmental Tax Policy

This study examines compliance behavior in the context of environmental tax policies, highlighting the essential role that these policies play in achieving the objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Environmental taxes are crucial instruments for reducing environmental damage and increasing energy efficiency. Nevertheless, taxpayer compliance, which is impacted by several variables, including social acceptability, regulatory quality, and perceptions of fairness, is a key component of these policies’ efficacy. In contrast to earlier research, which frequently concentrated on certain kinds of tax or discrete policy mechanisms, this study takes a broad approach, looking at a range of environmental taxation instruments. Emerging trends, significant factors influencing compliance behavior, and noteworthy contributions from eminent authors and organizations are all identified via bibliometric and scientometric analyses. To create fair and effective environmental tax policies, interdisciplinary approaches and international collaboration are required. Along with presenting policies to improve environmental regulation compliance, this study offers insightful advice for businesses that can help them innovate toward sustainability and adjust to shifting policy. It also provides a solid theoretical base for future researchers by highlighting important areas that require more investigation, especially when it comes to the wider effects of environmental taxes on various industries.

Impacts of a Short-Term International Engineering and Business Consulting Practicum

Increase in short-term programs is one of the biggest shifts in study abroad over the past twenty years. With prior research in this area showing many positive but also mixed impacts, skepticism persists about the ability of short-term study abroad to change students’ views on cultural differences. The aim of this study is to characterize if and how students’ views on cultural differences in the context of international client work change after a practicum-based faculty-led short-term study abroad program in Argentina. Twenty-four students who participated in the program responded to short-answer questions before and after the program. These responses were open-coded, and themes were identified. Results show that, before the program, students largely identified surface-level cultural differences from an ethnocentric perspective. After the program, students were more ethnorelative as evidenced by their discussing the deeper cultural context and values of Argentina and their willingness to adapt.

Can scholarly publishers change the world? The role of the SDGs within the publishing industry

The United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aim to eradicate poverty and inequality, protect the planet, and ensure health, justice, and prosperity for all, emphasizing inclusivity. Within the realm of scholarly publishing, the panel discussion Can scholarly publishers change the world? The role of the SDGs within the publishing industry held at Academic Publishing in Europe 2024, highlighted the business advantages of aligning with SDGs and made a plea to reshape the narrative beyond mere moral obligation as well as to galvanize stakeholders to take action and promote engagement, offering a clear direction. This paper expands on the panel discussion, which was moderated by Stephanie Dawson, CEO, ScienceOpen. Panellists were Agata Morka, Regional Director, Publishing Development, PLOS, Charlie Rapple, Chief Customer Officer and Co-founder, Kudos, Nikesh Gosalia, President Global Academic and Publisher Relations, Cactus Communications, and Ritu Dhand, Chief Scientific Officer, Springer Nature.

Optimalisasi Pengawasan Kinerja Karyawan Business Consultant PT XYZ : Implementasi Sistem RACI Melalui Project Google Spreadsheet

Employee performance monitoring is one of the key factors in human resource management, especially in a dynamic business sector such as futures trading. PT XYZ, a company engaged in futures trading, faces challenges in managing the performance of Business Consultants (BC) which often arise due to lack of clarity in the division of tasks, lack of accountability, and ineffective coordination. This study aims to optimize employee performance supervision at XYZ through the implementation of the RACI (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed) system integrated with Google Sheets. The research method used is qualitative with a case study approach, where in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation are used to collect data from employees and project managers who are directly involved. The results showed that the RACI system through Google Spreadsheet can clarify employee roles and responsibilities, increase accountability, and facilitate real-time performance monitoring. The modification of the RACI matrix in this spreadsheet also makes it easier for management to improve team collaboration and productivity. Despite technical challenges in its implementation, the system proved effective in optimizing team performance and communication.

Embracing occupational history: A doctoral research study investigating the career aspirations of older workers

What are the career aspirations of older professional workers in business advisory services? How does their career history influence their aspirations as they navigate toward retirement? These are the principal questions underlying the doctoral research programme showcased in this article. In contemporary society the concept of retirement is being challenged as the population ages and the government review their social strategies. ‘Traditional’ career pathways of older professional workers reflected an ascendant career which embraced their expertise and service, but now, with continuing organisational turbulence, some face a changing environment where their career path looks less certain. This article illustrates some of the main issues facing a new doctoral researcher; it is written at the beginning of the second year of research and addresses some critical questions that a new researcher needs to consider when they set out on their research journey. This reflective article takes Rudyard Kipling’s (1902) ‘six honest servingmen (sic)’ as its framework.

Forging a green future: Synergizing industry 4.0 technologies and circular economy tactics to achieve net-zero in sustainable supply chains

Industry 4.0 (I4.0) and Circular Economy (CE) are emerging in academic, managerial, and policy debates, leading to integrating sustainable supply chain and net zero paradigms as an important phenomenon for maintaining competitive advantages in business. Although CE and I4.0 have significant benefits, their integration is largely untapped, representing a significant opportunity to integrate technological advancements with sustainable practices. Hence, this study investigates how CE and I4.0 can be integrated to achieve net zero in a knowledge-based sustainable supply chain. As part of this objective, the paper conducts an exploratory systematic review of selected articles published in peer-reviewed journals. Three main categories are identified from the selected articles: (i) CE principles and I4.0 technologies integration, (ii) the role of CE-I4.0 nexus in a sustainable supply chain (iii) leveraging CE-4.0 integration for net zero sustainable supply chains. We propose a multi-perspective framework to analyze the net zero sustainable supply chain implementation level using I4.0, CE, and stakeholders’ perspectives. A recommendation from this study suggests increased attention from sustainable supply chain stakeholders on developing infrastructure, including knowledge-building development and training processes focused on net zero. By utilizing our improved knowledge of I4.0 and CE, the results of the study will help researchers, businesses, and policymakers to develop an effective and integrated strategic approach to foster a net zero sustainable supply chain.

The Role of Business Analysts in Enhancing Customer Satisfaction through Advanced Business Systems

Business Systems Analysts (BSAs) play a pivotal role in today's digital-first business environment, particularly in sectors such as insurance, fraud detection, and e-commerce. This article examines the critical function of BSAs in leveraging advanced business systems to drive operational efficiency, risk mitigation, and customer satisfaction. With the global business intelligence market projected to reach $33.3 billion by 2025, the demand for skilled BSAs continues to grow. Their unique ability to bridge technical capabilities with business needs positions them as key enablers of digital transformation. Through case studies and industry data, this research illuminates how BSAs contribute to project success, cost reduction, and enhanced customer experiences. The article also explores emerging trends and technologies that are shaping the future of business systems analysis, highlighting the evolving nature of the BSA role in an increasingly data-driven business landscape. This revised abstract provides a more condensed overview of the article's content, touching on the key points without duplicating the detailed information presented in the introduction. It also emphasizes the forward-looking aspects of the study and its relevance to current business trends.

A Study About Family Businesses in Kanyakumari District

Family Businesses are the oldest form of commercial organization and plays a crucial role in the development of the economy. It is a distinctive organization form with concentrated ownership, deep-rooted tacit knowledge, and lengthy family tenures. These are commercial organizations which are passed on from generations to generations and hence, the members in the family tend to influence the business decision making process (Baltazar et al. 2023). Family business aids in the survival of an individual when there is high unemployment rate and it provides job opportunities as well. However, there are problems involved in family businesses such as inability to incorporate business knowledge to the other family members. This can cause hindrance in the development of the business and even lead to the closure of the business. (Amenah et al. 2023) The research objective of the study is to analyse the issues faced in family businesses and providing the required suggestions. The primary data collection is through convenience sampling, and the sample size is 120. The secondary data collection was through journals, books, websites and databases. The statistical analysis revealed significant differences between age groups and the advantages of family businesses, particularly in areas such as long-term vision, commitment, trust, and agility. Similarly, key challenges like family conflicts, lack of succession planning, and resistance to change were found to significantly impact family businesses, highlighting the need for targeted interventions.

The Role and Impact of Business Consultants in Modern Business Management

Business consultants have become an integral part of the corporate world, providing specialized expertise to help organizations improve performance, solve complex challenges, and drive growth. This article explores the critical role business consultants play in various management functions such as strategy, operations, human resources, finance, and digital transformation. By offering an objective perspective, leveraging industry insights, and implementing data-driven solutions, consultants help businesses navigate changing market dynamics and foster long-term success. The article also delves into emerging trends in the consulting industry, including digital transformation, sustainability consulting, and the increasing importance of analytics in decision-making. As businesses seek greater efficiency and innovation, the demand for skilled business consultants continues to grow, positioning them as key drivers of organizational success in a competitive and evolving business landscape.

Analysis of Stakeholder Behavior Adjustment Strategies for Entrepreneurship Education in Higher Education Institutions from the Perspective of Digital Collaboration

Under the background of digital age, this study discusses the behavior debugging strategies of stakeholders in entrepreneurship education in colleges and universities. The research significance is that with the rapid development of information technology, digital collaboration has become an important force to promote the development of entrepreneurship education in colleges and universities. Through questionnaire survey and data analysis, it is found that college students' cognitive interest in innovation and entrepreneurship fluctuates regularly with time, and college entrepreneurship education should adjust curriculum design and teaching methods according to this cognitive law. The research suggests that colleges and universities should integrate the resources and advantages of teachers, students, parents, businesses, financial institutions and communities, strengthen cooperation through digital platforms, and optimize the implementation path of entrepreneurship education. At the same time, the government should provide policy support, narrow the digital gap between universities, build a cooperation platform, and promote data security and privacy protection. These strategies aim to improve the quality of education and cultivate innovative entrepreneurial talents to meet the needs of the digital age.

Factors that Affect Creating of Competitive Advantage for Trade Business in Xayabury District, Xayabury Province

The purposes of study were: 1) to study trade business competition situation of entrepreneurs, 2) to study a creation of a competitive advantage for trade business of entrepreneurs, and 3) to investigate factors that affect a creation of a competitive advantage for trade business in Xayabury district, Xayabury province. The research sample was 160 peoples from trade business of entrepreneurs by using questionnaires as data collection instrument and statistics were used to analyze frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation and stepwise multiple linear regression. The research found that: 1) trade business in Xayabuly City, Xayabuly Province, faces moderate competitive pressure with the strongest force coming from existing competitors within the industry, followed by the pressure from the entry of new competitors, the bargaining power of suppliers of goods/raw materials, the bargaining power of buyers, and lastly, the threat of substitute goods. 2) The creation of a competitive advantage of trade business entrepreneurs in in Xayabuly City, Xayabuly Province is at a high level, the highest mean is the trading business difference in bringing new commodities different from the competitors to the market to satisfy the customers. To quickly response to the needs of clients, it is necessary for the trading businesses to present new products. Trading businesses need to emphasize targeting markets by building good collaboration and friendship with clients. Trading business need to have a strategy in lowering operation costs by using resources effectively. 3) Factors affecting the creation of a competitive advantage for trading business in Xayabury district, Xayabury province, consist of six factors such as: proactive factor, current competitor factors, competitive strength factors, risk tolerance factors, political-legal factors and threat factors from substitute products. These factors are directly interconnected with the creation of a competitive advantage, except, political-legal factors of the entrepreneurs in Xayabuly District, Xayabuly Province.

Birds of a Feather Flock Together: Organizational Nepotism and Cronyism in Nordic Banks

In today’s competitive business landscape, banks are under scrutiny for practices like nepotism and cronyism, which skew fairness in employment processes. Such favoritism, manifesting through preferential hiring, compensation, and promotions, presents obstacles for merit-based recognition and advancement. This study investigates how these practices influence recruitment within Nordic banks, utilizing 34 semi-structured interviews from Denmark and Iceland to assess their prevalence and impact. By adopting a qualitative approach, the research aims to shed light on the nuanced effects of nepotism and cronyism on organizational culture and employee morale. Despite the perceived short-term advantages for businesses and selected employees, the study uncovers adverse outcomes, such as lower morale, job satisfaction, and trust in leadership, alongside a heightened propensity among employees to leave their jobs. These revelations offer critical insights for both scholars and practitioners in the banking sector, highlighting the need for strategies to mitigate the negative aspects of such favoritism in recruitment.

Co-Developing Business Plans for Upscaled Coastal Nature-Based Solutions Restoration: An Application to the Venice Lagoon (Italy)

Upscaling coastal nature-based solutions (NbSs), from the river to sea scale, essential to the ultimate success of restoration, requires larger investments, greater socio-economic engagement and a transformative shift in governance. Consequently, the ability to catalyze blended finance from public and private investors through business model innovation and accessibly written long-range business plans is imperative. This research proposes a methodology to systematically co-design, through iterative stakeholder engagement, suitable and effective business models for upscaling NbSs coastal restoration, as well as a framework to develop business plans adaptable to different investors needs and financial criteria. This method was tested and validated in a saltmarsh restoration project coordinated by public agencies in the Venice Lagoon. It delivered an advanced business model canvas, carefully assessed through a stakeholder questionnaire and a related business case centered on ecotourism complemented by a willingness-to-pay analysis. The resulting business plan lays out the governance, management, business and financial strategies for successful restoration, addressing specific interconnected issues, improving five main ecosystem services and delivering NbS multifunctional environmental, economic, social and cultural benefits. The methodology has proven to be applicable beyond the Venice Lagoon saltmarsh case and types of restoration projects.

Embracing methodological evolution and diversity in logistics and supply chain management research

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to highlight the significance of advancing research methodologies in logistics, operations and supply chain management. It seeks to expand the scope of research questions and explore areas previously constrained by traditional methodological approaches, thereby enhancing the exploration of complex, real-world business issues.Design/methodology/approachThis commentary introduces and discusses the special issue on “Advances in Research Methodologies for Logistics and Supply Chain Management,” exploring methodological innovations, diversity and their potential to address complex business and disciplinary challenges. The commentary assesses a broad spectrum of methodologies, ranging from traditional qualitative and quantitative approaches to overlooked methods such as qualitative comparative analysis, netnography, design science, Bayesian networks, machine learning and repertory grid technique. This diverse methodological approach enables a comprehensive examination of emerging and ongoing challenges in the supply chain. In the final summary section, we highlight additional areas of research method innovation not covered in this special issue, offering a broader perspective on future directions for methodological advancements in SCM research.FindingsThe findings suggest that integrating less explored methodologies from various disciplines encourages a richer, multi-level analysis of the supply chain management landscape. This integration facilitates a deeper understanding of emerging challenges, such as geopolitical issues, global supply chain disruptions and the integration of new technologies. Additionally, the exploration of ‘white space' in research methodologies indicates significant potential for discovering new insights that bridge practical problems with theoretical contributions.Originality/valueThe value of this methodological diversity extends beyond academic enrichment. It catalyzes the generation of innovative insights crucial for business practitioners, policymakers, consultants and academics. By adopting varied research designs and methodologies, the research note can offer a broader spectrum of analytical perspectives, crucial for uncovering nuanced insights into complex, cross-cultural and relationship-based dynamics in supply chain research.

The Digital Siren’s Call: Accepting Unethical AI Advice

The growing ubiquity of artificial intelligence (AI) in business raises concerns about how humans perceive AI-generated advice, especially in ethical contexts. This study, using a preregistered experiment, explores whether people are more likely to accept unethical business advice from AI compared to human advisors, and examines how individual differences in moral reasoning, decision-making style, and trust in AI influence this acceptance. Participants were presented with business decisions based on advice from either an AI or a human, with advice varying in ethicality. Results showed participants were more likely to accept unethical advice from AI than from human advisors. Lower moral reasoning, an intuitive decision-making style, and higher trust in AI were associated with greater acceptance of unethical AI advice. These findings emphasize the risks of overreliance on AI in decision-making and the importance of promoting ethical AI use in business.

Drive sustainable business performance with humane entrepreneurship, knowledge management: the mediation of sustainable business advantage and sustainable business model innovation

PurposeThis study evaluates the important role of humane entrepreneurship (HE) on sustainable business advantage (SBA) and sustainable business performance (SBP) by exploring the mediating role of sustainable business model innovation (SBMI) under the influence of knowledge management (KM) in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Encouraging businesses to implement a combination of KM and HE facilitates the implementation of SBMI that brings value to businesses, communities and the environment in emerging economies.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses an empirical quantitative research method using primary information based on data collected by questionnaires. The study sample resulted in 424 valid responses (66.77% response rate). The target audience of the study is middle and senior managers in SMEs. This study aims to perform structural modeling analysis with the maximum likelihood estimates method to examine structural relationships.FindingsThis study found a positive relationship between KM and HE to SBMI. At the same time, SBMI plays an important role for businesses to achieve SBA and SBP. Similarly, a positive relationship was also found between HE to SBA and SBP. And SBA strongly promotes SMEs to achieve SBP. In addition, the mediating role of SBMI and SBA is clarified to have a positive impact between HE–SBP and SBMI–SBP. HE plays an important role in motivating businesses to innovate sustainable business models, making it easier to gain sustainable competitive advantages, thereby bringing sustainable business results.Practical implicationsThis research helps SMEs realize the importance of KM and HE in SBMI. At that time, SMEs take advantage of internal and external information sources and innovate their business models based on HE mechanisms. Applying HE mechanisms will allow businesses to innovate their business models by combining concerns between stakeholders and the social environment for sustainable development. Therefore, businesses will achieve their SBA toward SBP.Originality/valueThe present literature shows that there are few empirical studies on the mechanism mediating SBMI in the relationship between HE and SBP; and SBA in the link between SBMI and SBP. In addition, the impact of KM and HE on SBMI is also very important in the current context. The study's findings could have huge implications for entrepreneurs and senior managers in SMEs in emerging economies. Help them realize the importance of KM and HE for SBMI, thereby building strategic perspectives that help businesses achieve sustainable competitive advantages and increase SBP for businesses.

The Power of Commitment: Creating an Award-Winning Culture of Health and Well-Being at DTE Energy.

The evidence that a healthy and safe workforce provides a competitive business advantage is increasingly clear. However, how to obtain this may be unclear to many. This article presents a case study showcasing how one large employer worked toward improving its culture of health and well-being. Measuring progress using an established corporate health assessment tool, results improved 75% over a 5-year period. In addition, site scan culture checks showed annual improvement, exceeding best-in-class scores by the fifth year. Building a culture of health and well-being often requires a few years to implement fully and involves a commitment to plan, deploy, improve, and manage over time. Ultimately, by following approaches taken by best-in-class employers, this can be accomplished with some ease and without missteps along the way.

A Comparative Study of Practice Ability Development Motivation and Curriculum Adaptation for Advanced Business English Learners in a Chinese University

This study reports on an investigative study with 70 English majors and 39 non-English-majors in a Chinese university who were recruited using convenience sampling, on their practice ability development motivations and needs, the effectiveness of business English curriculum in practice ability development and practice-oriented curriculum adaptation suggestions, based on two-stage surveys and teacher’s participant observation. The study results generated from numerical theme calculation and response content analysis showed that although the non-English-majors were more motivated than the English-majors, both groups had an intermediate level of practice-oriented motivation. Most English-majors and non-English-majors considered the business English curriculum as effective in enhancing their practice abilities. Regarding curriculum adaptations and post-course activities, most English-majors and non-English-majors encouraged more simulation-based practice and group activities, and the integration of diverse business and trade language and knowledge development activities. The results and research process of the study can inform future research on business English curriculum development.