Business Environment Research Articles

Religiosity and entrepreneurship: women entrepreneurs in Turkiye

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to showcase how entrepreneurial opportunities can be contextually formed differently for women entrepreneurs concerning their relationship with religion. This article reveals the multi-level and nuanced relationship between religiosity and entrepreneurship through a contextual lens by studying the interaction in a specific national country, Turkiye.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses the life stories of 10 Turkish women entrepreneurs operating in Turkiye. Data were selected purposefully to conduct an in-depth analysis. Thematic content analysis with a discursive approach and deductive and inductive coding methods were performed.FindingsThe findings suggest that the relationship between religiosity and entrepreneurial opportunities is highly contextual and nuanced. Religiosity brings trust and provides access to religious networks which can lead to entrepreneurial opportunities, while leaving people outside of this network bereft of these benefits. The creation of a closed circle for its beneficiaries is a feature of a social network, yet the results show that contextual forces of politics and gender can lead women entrepreneurs outside of this religious network to limit their possibilities of accessing public funding and facilities based on their perceptions as well as negative experiences. It is also seen that religiosity at a certain level is necessary to operate in conservative settings and traditionally masculine business environments with patriarchal practices and norms, as well as due to the religious affinity of the ruling political party. However, because of perceptions and discursive meanings attached to religion and religiosity in the country, women entrepreneurs need to be cautious in expressing their religiosity and find a balance so that they are not seen as unprofessional, incompetent and unqualified as well as do not jeopardise their business due to a controversial religious affiliation.Originality/valueThis paper is of value as it studies religiosity from a contextual perspective enabling and constraining women entrepreneurs in their entrepreneurship in relation to gendered and political structures. In this way, it displays the multiple ways of limitation and support that religiosity can bring for them concerning entrepreneurial opportunities. Turkiye provides a rich context with its mixed religious and secular societal norms and values and neo-liberal institutions and policies to examine the so-far underexplored issue of religiosity in the field of entrepreneurship.

The Factors That Influences on Working Environment of Government Employees in Bosnia and Herzegovina

In today's business environment, the majority of business activities are closely tied to information technologies, which play a crucial role in enabling and facilitating business operations when utilized effectively. There is a growing emphasis on the adaptability of individuals in the workplace and the utilization of human capital in business success. A key requirement for business organizations is the effective management of information technologies, which encompasses the knowledge, skills, and abilities possessed by employees to navigate evolving technology and achieve organizational objectives. This includes proficiency in digital competencies for continuous learning and adaptation to the ever-changing landscape of information technologies. This study introduces indicators related to adapting to changes in the workplace, focusing on human capital engaged in continuous learning and information technologies. The process of adapting to changes is highlighted as a means of transforming essential business competencies into contemporary skills. The integration of these factors in the business framework reflects organizations' readiness to embrace modern business practices. While the research was conducted in state institutions rather than private companies, its significance lies in introducing novel approaches to business practices in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The recommendations presented at the conclusion of the study aim to further enhance the modernization of business approaches and assess the potential impact of competency gaps on organizational performance.

Strategic alternatives for Muslim-friendly homestay in Sabah Malaysia: a SWOT/TOWS analysis

Purpose This study aims to explore the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) of the Muslim-friendly homestay business in Malaysia to help identify and recommend practical strategies to capitalize on the strengths and potentials while overcoming the current shortcomings and threats. Design/methodology/approach The Muslim-friendly business owner and operators in Sabah, Malaysia, were the subject of a series of focus groups and expert opinion interviews. The data was transcribed, and then the variables were categorized into the four SWOT categories using content and thematic analysis. Meanwhile, threats, opportunities, weaknesses and strengths (TOWS) analysis is used to identify the best strategy alternatives. Findings The SWOT analysis identifies several strengths (e.g. diverse and unique Islamic culture and heritage [S1], iconic Islamic landmarks [S2], rich natural beauty [S3], well-established halal tourism industry [S4]); weaknesses (e.g. limited awareness [W1], limited infrastructure and facilities [W2], limited human resources and trained personnel [W3], lack of Islamic tourism products and experiences [W4]); opportunities (e.g. growing demand for Islamic tourism [O1], increasing disposable income [O2], potential for collaborations [O3], potential for partnerships [O4], potential for expanding Sabah’s halal tourism offerings [O5]); and threats (e.g. competition [T1], political instability [T2], economic downturns [T3] and environmental and social challenges [T4]). Practical implications This paper could serve as a guideline and supplementary information for stakeholders in the homestay industry to grasp their business environment better. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study of its type to blend SWOT and TOWS analysis with the sector of Muslim-friendly homestays. Hence, the findings might expand understanding of the Muslim-friendly homestays industry and aid businesses in penetrating this growing market.

Implementasi Strategis Sistem Informasi Akuntansi Melalui Analisis Komparatif

This research aims to investigate the strategic implementation of accounting information systems (AIS) through a comparative analysis of various approaches employed within organizations. In the face of rapidly changing business dynamics, the role of AIS is pivotal in supporting accurate managerial decisions and ensuring operational sustainability.The research methodology involves data collection from multiple organizations that implement AIS using distinct approaches. A comparative analysis is conducted across various implementation aspects, including system design, technological integration, data management, information security, and their impacts on financial and operational performance within the companies. The findings reveal that a strategic approach in implementing AIS provides a competitive edge for organizations. It was identified that factors such as appropriate technology selection, efficient integration, robust data security, and integrated management significantly contribute to the success of AIS implementation.These findings offer valuable insights for practitioners and managers in planning, developing, and enhancing the effectiveness of AIS in the context of dynamic market changes and business environments. The implications of this research provide a foundation for organizations to make strategic decisions regarding AIS investments and implementation to enhance their competitiveness and operational performance.

Boardroom blind spots: why HR exclusion puts corporate reputations at risk

Purpose This study aims to explore the ramifications of a lack of human resources (HR) representation in corporate boardrooms. Design/methodology/approach The author draws upon her personal and professional experience as a director of human resources and as a board member for a corporation. Findings There is a fundamental misunderstanding of the strategic value that HR brings to the table. To thrive in the modern business environment, organisations must acknowledge this strategic value and actively involve HR professionals in high-level decision-making processes. Originality/value This study makes a strong and compelling case for HR’s involvement in high-level decision-making in the boardroom.

Research on Business Contracts and Legal Regulations

In todays business environment, commercial contracts serve as important tools for regulating business activities, and their binding force and enforcement mechanisms are essential for the stability of business transactions. However, the complexity of commercial contracts often leads to various challenges, including contract interpretation, performance, and dispute resolution. Against this background, the research centers on the following questions. What are the challenges in drafting and enforcing commercial contracts? How effective are legal rules in constraining and protecting commercial contracts? What are the legal protection and risk management strategies of parties involved in commercial contracts? By conducting an in-depth study of these questions, this study examines the relationship between commercial contracts and laws and regulations, with a particular focus on the complexity of commercial contracts. As such, the paper aims to provide practical recommendations for strengthening the legal framework of commercial contracts and promoting the effective protection of the interests of all parties in business transactions.

Curating future leaders: a literature review on managerial curriculum in learning organizations

Purpose This study aims to analyze the evolution and current state of talent management in learning organizations and the design of managerial curricula, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in the context of a rapidly changing global business environment. Design/methodology/approach A narrative literature review was conducted, tracing the conceptual evolution of learning organizations. Seminal works emphasizing continuous learning and transformation were highlighted, and the progression of managerial education was analyzed, from its early focus on ethics and soft skills to its current emphasis on sustainability, digital literacy and experiential learning. Findings The research reveals challenges in balancing foundational knowledge with emerging competencies in curriculum design. Tensions are evident in maintaining relevance in rapidly changing, globally interconnected environments. Notable limitations include the trade-offs in innovation and the need to cater to diverse student demographics. Originality/value This review uniquely synthesizes developments at the intersection of curriculum innovation, organizational learning and curriculum design, offering valuable insights for institutions aiming to nurture talent for modern learning organizations.

Current challenges in ethics and accountability in financial auditing

In today's complex business landscape, characterized by technological advances and e-commerce, ethics and accountability in financial auditing are essential to safeguard the integrity of accounting information. This study set out to examine the impact of contemporary challenges, those associated with technological evolution and online commerce, on ethics and accountability in financial auditing. A methodological approach involving literature review and case study analysis was used. The findings reveal that technological sophistication and globalization have exacerbated the relevance of ethics and responsibility in financial auditing. The need for continuous adaptation, preservation of independence and conscious implementation of emerging technologies is highlighted. In conclusion, auditors must be prepared to face ethical and technical challenges in a dynamic business environment to ensure the reliability and veracity of financial auditing.

CONCEPTION OF LEADERSHIP OF MANAGERS OF BUSINESS ORGANIZATIONS IN UKRAINE

Relevance. The presented research was conducted on the basis of the study "Leader in Business Organization of Ukraine", conducted to clarify the practice of leadership and management in the modern business environment of Ukraine: diagnosis of management potential to form mechanisms for improving the effectiveness of business organizations [21]. We set a goal to empirically test what personal qualities are required for effective leadership according to the opinion of leaders and managers in Ukraine. Metodology. Sample. 104 respondents, aged 28 to 52, participated in the study. The employees of companies from different spheres of business activity and forms of ownership participated in the survey. The study was conducted using a social-psychological questionnairing. The research participants were asked to identify 10 personal qualities that are required for an effective Ukrainian business leader. Results. For centuries, the phenomenon of leadership has been studied by philosophers, sociologists, psychologists, so the views on the nature of leadership are extremely diverse. Leadership is known by its very nature to be both the result of objective as well as subjective factors. The study highlighted the clusters based on leadership characteristics that testify to the conception of business leadership of contemporary business executives and managers. The respondents identified 42 qualities that they believe are inherent in today's Ukrainian business leader. In the general selection with a frequency of more than 10%, there are 14 distinguished qualities (determination, consistency, reasonableness, being bright at decision-making in emergencies, enthusiasm, sense of humor, patience, perseverance, observation, riskiness, responsibility, competence, sociability, self-perfection/self-development).

Ethical management and stakeholder relations: Insights from Slovak companies with foreign participation

The practice of ethical management has gained traction due to its role in enhancing stakeholder relations, which can have severe repercussions for organisations. By prioritising ethics, companies not only uphold moral principles but also gain a competitive advantage. This is particularly true in societies that value socially responsible business and give preference to companies that go beyond the requirements of the law. Understanding the significance of ethical management practices is therefore becoming key to creating a responsible and sustainable business environment that benefits both an organisation and its stakeholders, such as employees, consumers and society. The purpose of this article is to present a comprehensive exploration of the impact of selected aspects of ethical management in Slovak companies with foreign participation on the ethicality of their relationships with stakeholders. By examining a range of factors related to ethical management, the article seeks to identify statistically significant differences among companies with different approaches to managing business ethics. Employing this analysis, the article contributes to the understanding of ethical practices in Slovak companies and provides insights for academics and practitioners of business ethics. The data used for this analysis was collected through an online questionnaire survey, resulting in a sample size of 179 monitored subjects, all of whom are Slovak companies with foreign participation. The research design included two groups of factors: “general factors of business ethics” or “ethical management approaches” and “ethicality of company-stakeholder relationships.” The statistical analysis included the Shapiro-Wilk normality test, followed by the non-parametric Kruskal-Wallis H test, and post hoc analysis using the Bonferroni adjustment for previously identified significances. The results of the research presented in the article indicate a predominantly positive ethical stance towards employees, suppliers, customers and other stakeholders among Slovak companies. Statistically significant differences were found in the levels of ethicality in relation to legal form, with limited liability and joint-stock companies showing different perceptions towards supplier ethics. The research also proves that an ethical organisational climate is a major determinant of the ethicality of Slovak companies and suggests that a robust integration of ethics into strategic planning significantly improves their stakeholder relations. It can also be concluded that the scope of a code of ethics is particularly significant for community relations, whereas the frequency with which it is updated has less impact. This research holds significant value because it explores the impact of ethical management practices on stakeholder relations and ethical issues in Slovak companies with foreign participation. By focusing on the specific context of Slovak companies, the research offers unique insights into the relationship between ethical management factors and stakeholder dynamics. This research aims to bridge a gap by shedding light on the intricate dynamics between ethical management and stakeholder relations. The findings provide valuable guidance to organisational leaders, policymakers and stakeholders in fostering ethical behaviour and mitigating ethical risks within companies.

Harnessing artificial intelligence to develop strategic marketing goals

In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) has become imperative for organizations striving to remain competitive. This concept paper explores the integration of AI in developing strategic marketing goals, aiming to provide a comprehensive framework for leveraging AI's capabilities effectively. The paper begins by outlining the current state of AI in marketing, highlighting its transformative potential across various facets such as customer segmentation, personalized targeting, predictive analytics, and automation. It underscores the necessity for businesses to embrace AI-driven approaches to stay ahead in an increasingly data-driven marketplace. Moreover, the concept paper delves into the strategic implications of AI adoption in marketing. It emphasizes the need for alignment between AI initiatives and overarching business objectives, emphasizing the role of AI in enhancing customer experience, optimizing resource allocation, and driving revenue growth. Furthermore, the paper addresses key considerations and challenges associated with integrating AI into marketing strategies, including data privacy concerns, ethical implications, and organizational readiness. It advocates for a structured approach to AI implementation, encompassing robust data governance, talent acquisition, and continuous monitoring to mitigate risks effectively. Drawing upon industry best practices and case studies, the concept paper elucidates practical methodologies for leveraging AI in setting strategic marketing goals. It emphasizes the importance of data-driven decision-making, iterative experimentation, and agile adaptation to capitalize on AI's potential for driving innovation and competitive advantage. In conclusion, the concept paper advocates for a proactive stance towards embracing AI in marketing strategy formulation. By strategically harnessing AI's capabilities, organizations can not only enhance their marketing effectiveness but also cultivate long-term sustainable growth in today's dynamic business environment. Keywords: AI, Strategic, Marketing, Environment, Goals, Business.

Exploring the Role of Destination Management Organizations (DMOs) in Leveraging Social Media as a Destination Marketing Tool: Insights from Himachal Pradesh

TOURISM: Tourism is the movement of people to destinations outside their usual environment for various reasons, including leisure, business, or other purposes. These visitors' activities, known as the visitor economy, can have a significant impact on the visited locations economically, socially, and culturally. This can involve enjoying recreational activities, relaxation, and pleasure, often with the help of established businesses offering services and experiences. Tourism is a multifaceted and dynamic industry that has evolved significantly over the years. It encompasses the movement of people to destinations outside their usual environment for personal or recreational purposes, contributing substantially to the global economy and generating employment opportunities and income for millions. The tourism industry can be broadly categorized into two primary types: international tourism, where tourists travel to foreign lands, and domestic tourism, where tourists explore their own country. The most frequently visited countries by international tourists include France, Spain, the United States, China, Italy, Turkey, Mexico, and the United Kingdom. Tourism serves as a crucial industry, providing employment and income to millions of people worldwide and contributing significantly to the economies of various nations. The steady rise in popularity of tourism since the 1950s can be attributed to advancements in technology, the proliferation of the internet, the increasing availability of paid vacations, demographic changes, and media exposure. The tourism life cycle, proposed by Professor Richard Butler, consists of four stages: initial discovery, growth, decline, and regeneration. This model helps us understand the pattern of popularity that tourist destinations follow. Tourism is not limited to leisure activities; it also includes business tourism, cultural travel, environmental effects of aviation, international tourism advertising, medical tourism, and science tourism, among others. The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) plays a crucial role in promoting responsible, sustainable, and universally accessible tourism, providing statistics and insights on key indicators for inbound and outbound tourism globally. In conclusion, tourism is a complex and multifaceted industry that has a significant impact on the global economy and local communities. It encompasses various forms, including international and domestic tourism, and serves as a crucial source of employment and income for millions of people worldwide.

Carsharing Worldwide: Case Studies on Carsharing Development in China, Europe, Japan, and the United States

Carsharing has received considerable attention as a sustainable mobility paradigm. Various service designs and dynamic business environments have increased the decision complexity for the carsharing business. Therefore, carsharing operators require a tool for assessing business development from holistic perspectives. This research provides a framework for outlining the requirements of the carsharing system with holistic perspectives of stakeholders being considered, as well as to derive assessment metrics for examining carsharing development. To create the framework, the system modeling tool, context diagram, was adopted to map out the interactions of externalities with the system and the requirements of the system. Eight assessment metrics: the market condition, business advantage, parking condition, electric vehicle deployment, self-serving configuration, vehicle reservation, vehicle maintenance, and pricing scheme, were eventually identified from the system modeling. From these dimensions, we review 24 carsharing cases from China, Europe, Japan, and the United States, and we summarize discrepancies among different marketplaces and some managerial insights on carsharing development, such as carsharing motivators and inhibitors, innovations in respect of different business backgrounds, approaches of increasing parking privileges, approaches of increasing electrifications, essential digital features, reservation regimes, methods of vehicle maintenances, and service pricing regimes.

Contemporary Human Resource Management Practices and Diversity in Changing Business Environments

Human resource management (HRM) serves as the cornerstone for organizations to achieve strategic objectives, address staff welfare, and enhance customer satisfaction. This study delves into the pivotal role of HRM in shaping organizational activities, particularly in the transition from personnel management to strategic HRM. It underscores the importance of aligning HRM strategies with overall organizational goals and examines various HRM practices and techniques. This study adopts a qualitative research design aimed at exploring the pivotal role of human resource management (HRM). The findings revealed that by exploring contemporary challenges and employing these techniques, coupled with the expertise of HR practitioners, organizations can effectively mitigate challenges and leverage opportunities. Moreover, a well-coordinated HRM approach, involving all levels of the organization and stakeholders, facilitates market expansion, strengthens brand reputation, and enhances talent retention and attraction. This study adopts a qualitative research design aimed at exploring the pivotal role of human resource management (HRM).

Assessing the Effect of Compensation Packages, Work-Life Balance Policies, and Career Development Opportunities on Employee Retention: A Case Study of MSME Employee

In today's competitive business environment, Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) face significant challenges in attracting and retaining top talent. This study examines the impact of compensation packages, work-life balance policies, and career development opportunities on employee retention within MSMEs. Using a quantitative research design and Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), data from 300 respondents were analyzed to explore the relationships between these factors. The findings reveal significant positive relationships between compensation packages, work-life balance policies, career development opportunities, and employee retention. These results highlight the importance of strategic investments in human capital and the creation of conducive work environments to foster employee loyalty and commitment within MSMEs.

Economic impacts of digital home-sharing platform: Creative destruction in the hospitality industry

This paper describes an empirical study that was conducted by applying creative destruction theory to examine structural changes in the hospitality industry due to the growth of digital home-sharing platforms. To achieve these research aims, the current study considered the hospitality industry, which encompasses the accommodation and restaurant sectors, as well as Airbnb, representing the digital home-sharing platform. The findings revealed that there is a significant relationship between the exit of the accommodation industry and the supply of the digital home-sharing platform, while both entry and exit in the restaurant industry are significantly associated with the supply or performance of the digital home-sharing platform. Over time, this leads to industry transformations as certain segments of the lodging industry are replaced by digital home-sharing platforms, and as the restaurant industry undergoes a process of creative destruction, with establishments unable to adapt to changing business environments and the emergence of new facilities tailored to new technologies or accommodation models.

A TRACER STUDY ON BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN BUSINESS ADMINISTRATION - FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT GRADUATES FROM ACADEMIC YEAR 2019 TO 2023

This study aimed to assess the employment rates and employability status of graduates from the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration-Financial Management program at Kapalong College of Agriculture, Sciences, and Technology from 2019 to 2023. It also examined graduates attitudes towards work, the quality of education provided by the institution, and their skills development. Using a descriptive research method, a total of 587 respondents participated in an online survey conducted through Google Forms. Findings revealed that 88.17% of financial management graduates were employed, with 52.07% working in job-related professions such as credit & collection assistant, entrepreneur, cashier, auditor, bookkeeper, inventory personnel, accounting staff, and account officer. Additionally, 30.77% were employed in non-related fields including office-based clerk, government employee, sales agent/specialist/representative, call center agent, marketing specialist, technical staff, and photographer. Among the employed graduates, 37% held regular positions, 33% were on job order, 16% worked on a contractual basis, 8% were casual employees, and 6% were self-employed. Furthermore, only 0.85% pursued a Master in Business Administration, while 4.26% became teacher education unit earners. The study found that graduates consistently exhibited very high levels of attitude towards work, quality education provisions, and skills development. However, computer and ICT skills received the lowest mean score, suggesting a need for the program to offer practical training sessions, workshops, or laboratory sessions to enhance students proficiency in these areas. Providing opportunities for students to practice using computer software and applications in simulated business environments or real-world projects is recommended.

Analyzing SME's Data Visualization, Business Challenges, and Solutions: A Seven Stars Review

This comprehensive report encapsulates a thorough analysis conducted on the extensive Seven Stars dataset. Leveraging advanced data visualization techniques, the analysis has been meticulously executed to extract meaningful insights and elucidate intricate patterns within the dataset. By delving deep into the data, the report identifies a spectrum of potential business challenges that the organization may encounter, both in the present and future landscapes. These challenges encompass diverse realms such as market fluctuations, resource allocation, and operational inefficiencies. In response to the identified challenges, a robust set of solutions is proposed, tailored to address each issue methodically. Drawing upon best practices and industry expertise, these solutions aim to bolster the organization's resilience and competitiveness in the dynamic business environment. Moreover, to facilitate seamless data management and decision-making processes, a bespoke dashboard has been meticulously crafted. This intuitive dashboard serves as a centralized platform, enabling stakeholders to effortlessly manipulate and analyze data from disparate sources, thereby fostering informed decision-making and strategic planning. In essence, this paper serves as a comprehensive roadmap for the organization's data-driven journey, guiding it towards sustainable growth and success in an ever-evolving business landscape. Through diligent analysis, strategic foresight, and proactive problem-solving, the organization can chart a course towards long-term prosperity and resilience.

Developing and Implementing a Value-Based Operations and Maintenance Performance Management in Nigeria Electric Power Industry

The Nigeria electric power industry is yet to recognize and adjust management practices, especially those concerned with operations and maintenance, to the changed and changing business conditions in electric power production. Hence, there is a need to review the organization’s operations and maintenance policies. This paper intends to develop a value-based operations and maintenance performance which could be implemented in Nigeria electric power stations. An attempt was made to develop a framework for effective management of operations and maintenance performance which will link results to performance drivers. Furthermore, balance scorecard concept was included. The paper emphasized on value-added and intellectual capital in operations and maintenance in the emerging business environment, and stressed that there is a need to move from corrective maintenance or time-based maintenance to a long-term business-oriented approach.

Gear up for safety: Investing in a new automotive future in China

China's electric vehicle (EVs) sector has experienced rapid growth over the past five years, driven by the country's ambition to lead in EV technology globally. As the automotive industry evolves, safety measures become increasingly important for manufacturers and consumers alike. The shift towards EVs is reshaping the automotive industry, posing challenges to traditional industry leaders and raising geopolitical concerns. China's emergence as a hub for EV production has supported this change. Evaluating strategies to mitigate the impact of Chinese-made automobiles, considering their cost-effectiveness and competitive advantage, is crucial as China's cars become more affordable and high-quality. Understanding the potential outcomes of investing in safety is crucial for navigating the complexities of the Chinese automotive market and establishing a sustainable presence in the industry. This study examines the potential outcomes of investing in safety in the Chinese automotive landscape, taking into account factors such as the business environment, regulatory landscape, cultural nuances, and market dynamics. It aims to provide direction for new investors and insights for new automotive companies entering the Chinese market, while emphasizing safety standards and innovation. Keywords: Electric Vehicle, Investment Safety, Business Environment, Regulatory Landscape, Cultural Nuances, Market Dynamics.