Business Relationships Research Articles

Conciliation procedures in the resolution of economic disputes: a comparative legal analysis

The article examines conciliation procedures in the resolution of economic disputes by conducting a comparative legal analysis. It is emphasized that modern trends in the development of the legal system demonstrate the growing role of conciliation procedures in the resolution of economic disputes. Alternative methods of dispute resolution, such as mediation, amicable settlement, negotiations and arbitration, are actively developing in European countries. In Ukraine, the implementation of the Law «On Mediation» and the harmonization of national legislation with European standards create new opportunities for the effective consideration of economic disputes. A comparative legal analysis of conciliation procedures in Ukraine and European countries indicates the need for further improvement of legal mechanisms and expansion of the use of alternative methods of conflict resolution. In particular, mediation in the United Kingdom has a long history and is supported by both courts and legislative initiatives, which contributes to its active use in civil, economic and corporate disputes. In Ukraine, the mediation procedure is still developing, which requires more active support from the state and the business environment. Arbitration as a mechanism for resolving disputes also has significant potential. In European countries, arbitration procedures are widely used due to clear legislative norms and a high level of trust in arbitration institutions. In Ukraine, arbitration legislation is adapted to international standards, but requires improving the mechanism for enforcing arbitration awards and raising awareness among business entities about its advantages. Dispute resolution with the participation of a judge is another promising tool in the system of conciliation procedures. The experience of European countries shows that the active participation of judges in the dispute resolution process contributes to their effective consideration and reduction of the judicial workload. In Ukraine, this institution requires further development and improvement of legal regulation. It is emphasized that the expansion of the use of conciliation procedures in commercial litigation is an important direction for the development of the legal system of Ukraine, which will contribute to increasing the efficiency of dispute resolution, reducing court costs and preserving business relations between the parties.

Promoting China’s Development Model for the Hambantota International Port: Selling Shekou to Sri Lanka

This article examines the narratives associated with the “Shekou Model” in China’s development of the Hambantota International Port in Sri Lanka. Through a dual narrative analysis and policy evaluation approach utilizing official Chinese and Sri Lankan statements, it examines the motivations of the Chinese Communist Party and the China Merchants Group in “selling” the Shekou Model and how Sri Lankans react to these efforts. It argues that the Chinese Communist Party aims to promote the Chinese development model and continued Belt and Road Initiative co-operation. Conversely, the China Merchants Group seeks to expand its portfolio and export its Shekou Model while adhering to the national Belt and Road Initiative strategy to secure institutional backing. Lastly, the Sri Lankan government is primarily interested in ensuring economic benefits from China. It finds that the strategy’s primary beneficiary is the Chinese Communist Party, whose overarching policy of promoting China’s development model has been successful. In contrast, selling Shekou has been a tolerable failure for the China Merchants Group and the Sri Lankan government. Consequently, this article contributes to studies of the promotion of China’s development model, the interplay between Chinese domestic and international policy-making practices, and Party, government, and business relations.

Smart contracts as a type of electronic contracts, their features and problems in the electronic circulation of civil law objects

The article is devoted to the study of the features of smart contracts, which are a type of electronic contracts. Smart contracts, which are also called “smart contracts” (origin of the word “smart contract”), correspond to modern trends in digitalization and provide an effective mechanism for the implementation of business, financial and economic relations in a virtual environment. The following methods were used in the study: general logical, method of analysis and synthesis, formal-legal, comparative-legal, systemic. When comparing the so-called “technological” and legal approaches to understanding the concept of “smart contract”, the views of different groups of foreign and domestic scientists and researchers on the interpretation of this concept were analyzed. The principle of operation of a smart contract is considered on a specific example, while the way in which a smart contract operates in certain specific conditions is studied in detail and possible reasons for its failure to perform are analyzed. When analyzing the operation of smart contracts, their practical, technical, legislative problems and features were identified. Thus, the feature of immutability of a smart contract is its advantage because it excludes the intervention of the human factor. But the immutability of a smart contract is also its disadvantage because it makes it impossible to conclude additional agreements to a smart contract when certain circumstances change. Taking into account the study of the properties of a smart contract and an example of its operation, it can be stated that a smart contract can function only in a certain environment provided that the executable program code has direct and unlimited access to the objects of the smart contract. This creates integration problems of a smart contract with the objects of its operation. Thus, if the subject of a smart contract is real estate and in this regard the specified electronic contract requires notarial electronic certification and corresponding registration in the digital environment, then today in Ukraine there is an integration problem of electronic notarial certification of such contracts due to the absence and legislative uncertainty of the mechanism of electronic notarial certification and registration. Also relevant is the problem of smart contracts regarding payments under them in cryptocurrency, which also requires a legislative solution, since the legal status of cryptocurrency in Ukraine has not yet been established. Solving these problems in the future will allow for the wider use of smart contracts by their Ukrainian counterparties.

Investigating privacy risks in open government data: an exploratory case study

Introduction. As governments increasingly release large datasets to the public, concerns have arisen regarding the potential risks associated with the inadvertent disclosure of personal information. However, there are few empirical case studies of this phenomena. Method. Taking a red teaming approach, we collected public, nonprofit reporting documents from the IRS, as well as a list of professional athletes. Using standard data processing techniques, we attempt to identify and evaluate the personal information that can be attached to these notable individuals in order to propose a framework describing how features of information, people and processes influence the potential release of personal information. Findings. We find that name commonness plays a large role in determining the feasibility of matching records. We also find that personal information, including addresses and business relationships, are accessible in the dataset. Conclusion. Our exploratory case study suggests several features of information, people and processes that influence the release of private information held in open government data. While limited, it suggests the value of further work in the area.

Building blocks of social relationships in business: verification and measurement validation

Building blocks of social relationships in business: verification and measurement validation

The Influence of Market Orientation and Entrepreneurial Orientation on International MSMEs Performance Mediated by Networking and Learning Orientation

Objective: This study aims to examine the direct and indirect effects of Market Orientation and Entrepreneurial Orientation on the Performance of International SMEs, mediated by Networking and Learning Orientation Theoretical Framework: This study examines the influence of market orientation and entrepreneurial orientation on international MSME performance, with networking and learning orientation as mediators. Market orientation helps MSMEs understand customers and competitors, while entrepreneurial orientation drives innovation, proactiveness, and risk-taking. Networking strengthens business relationships to support exports, while learning orientation enhances adaptability. These factors collectively contribute to the success of exporting MSMEs in East Java. Methods: The research method used is quantitative exploratory research. The population of this study consists of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in the East Java Province of Indonesia, totaling 875 SME actors. Based on the sample calculation, the sample size for this study is determined to be 268 respondents. The sampling technique used is non-probability sampling with purposive sampling. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistical analysis and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) assisted by AMOS 24. Results and Discussion: The results of the study show that the Performance of International SMEs is not significantly influenced by Market Orientation, that the Performance of International SMEs is not significantly influenced by Entrepreneurial Orientation, and that the Performance of International SMEs is significantly influenced by Networking and Learning Orientation. Networking and Learning Orientation are significantly influenced by Market Orientation and Entrepreneurial Orientation. Research Implications: The implication of this study It is expected that export SMEs in East Java can further optimize their market orientation and entrepreneurship to drive innovation and expand international networks; (2) The Cooperative and SME Department of East Java. It is expected that the Cooperative and SME Department of East Java will provide more intensive training and mentoring regarding strengthening market orientation, entrepreneurship, and learning for export SMEs; (3) The Industry and Trade Department of East Java. It is expected that the Industry and Trade Department of East Java will strengthen infrastructure and support programs for export SMEs, including introducing new technologies and facilitating international business relationships through exhibitions or international forums; (4) Future researchers. It is expected that the findings of this study can serve as a reference for future researchers with other variables outside of this study. Originality/Value: This study offers originality/value by examining the role of networking and learning orientation as mediators in the relationship between market orientation and entrepreneurial orientation on international MSME performance. Focusing on exporting MSMEs in East Java, this research fills a gap in understanding global competitiveness in this sector. The findings are expected to provide new insights into how market strategies, entrepreneurship, and business networking contribute to enhancing MSME export performance.

Responsible Sourcing and Child Labour in Mica Mining in South Asia

: Global demand for mica is increasing due to heavy consumption of mica in the automobile, manufacturing, construction, and cosmetic industries. As per the Mica Market reports, the global Mica market is expanding and Asia Pacific dominates with a share of 40%. China is one of the leading producers and exporters of mica since 2020. Many popular mica companies are engaged in the production and extraction of mica and in other related business activities. Many beauty companies are under surveillance due to the involvement of child labour in mica mines. Unfortunately, many children are still engaged in mining work and many ‘ghost mines’ are functional in India and South Africa. This paper will present an overview of responsible mica sourcing, child labour in mica mines, related problems and their working conditions in South Asia. This article presents an bibliometric analysis of responsible sourcing and child labour in mica mines in the South Asian region. Keywords: Responsible Sourcing, Ethical Mining, Ghost Mines

Technology Adoption Among Women in Cambodia's SMEs: Influencing Factors, Benefits, and Coping Strategies

Technology adoption is crucial for enhancing efficiency and competitiveness, especially for women in Cambodia's small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Despite SMEs being recognized as key drivers of economic growth, women entrepreneurs face significant challenges, including limited digital awareness, weak technology support, and restricted access to resources. This study explores the factors influencing technology adoption, benefits, and coping strategies. Data were collected from 121 women entrepreneurs in Cambodia's SMEs using a self-administered survey. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, including correlation analysis, were employed to assess the relationships between adoption factors, benefits, and coping strategies. The study identified six key factors influencing technology adoption: operational optimization, client and business relationships, market expansion, information accessibility, cost considerations, and adoption. It also found four key benefits of technology adoption: improved information management, enhanced communication, increased operational efficiency, and a strengthened business reputation. Common strategies to overcome adoption barriers included human-centred approaches, such as workforce training and leadership engagement, and operational strategies, like reducing internet costs and improving connectivity. Results showed a strong positive relationship between adoption factors and perceived benefits (r = 0.7779, p < 0.0001) and a moderate correlation with coping strategies (r = 0.5642, p < 0.0001), confirming that as adoption factors improve, the benefits and coping strategies also strengthen. This study fills a critical research gap by focusing on the underexplored experiences, providing actionable insights for policymakers and business leaders. It emphasizes the need for policy support, infrastructure improvements, and training programs to foster a technology-driven business environment.

Emotional Intelligence, Leadership, Governance and Management Strategy: Key Drivers of Business Sustainability in Engineering Services

Purpose: The paper deals with plant engineering services based on global engineering standards and it aim to meet the project budget and timeline by minimizing unproductive hours, obtaining design inputs for the design and procurement, compromising quality and sharing resources. This research paper aims to explore the business sustainability of engineering service companies in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Design and methodology: In order to gather information for this research, researchers have gathered data from twenty-three (23) engineering services companies that have received approval to provide engineering services to oil and gas operating companies across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Researchers have then used XLSTAT version 2024.2.2 to analyze the data. Findings: Researchers found a strong correlation between an entrepreneur's emotional intelligence, leadership abilities, governance, and management strategy and the business sustainability of their organization. Research, Practical & Social Implications: According to researchers, the primary aspect contributing to the sustainability of the engineering services industry, is resource use. Building solid business relationships requires emotional intelligence on the part of entrepreneurs, and the sustainability of the company is largely dependent on how these relationships are managed. In order to improve their management strategy-based business sustainability, entrepreneurs require high emotional intelligence and strong leadership abilities. Main limitation of this study is, the study focuses only in GCC countries. Originality/Value: To the best of the author's knowledge, this study, which focuses on emotional intelligence, leadership abilities, governance, and management strategy, may be the first to look into the business sustainability of engineering service companies.

Problems of determining the subjects of related party transactions

For a long time, the institution of related-party transactions has remained outside the attention of scholars and practitioners due to the rather small regulatory framework governing the procedure for their execution. This is due to the fact that in Ukraine, a rather small number of business entities comply with procedure of execution and approval related-party transactions, and even in case of violation of such procedure, they do not apply for legal remedies to address the consequences of violation of procedure on related-party transactions. Such disregard for the legally defined procedure for related-party transactions has led to stagnation of legal regulation of the analysed corporate law institution for quite a long time. At the same time, an analysis of the existing gaps and ways to address them will help to develop modern approaches to ensuring transparency of corporate relations in terms of related-party transactions, which is important for the adaptation of domestic legislation to European standards. Parties to related party transactions play a significant role in ensuring transparency and compliance with integrity standards in corporate legal relations both in Ukraine and in other foreign jurisdictions. The interest of a certain person in a transaction usually arises in the context of business relations, corporate transactions or public procurement procedures, where the risk of conflicts of interests increases. Ukrainian law establishes a range of persons who are parties to such transactions, including, in particular, company officers, affiliates and/or controllers. A study of the legal regulation in the definition of parties to related party transactions under Ukrainian and EU law is necessary to find opportunities for the development of domestic corporate law, even in such seemingly unpopular institutions. Such studies also help to identify shortcomings in existing regulations and develop effective mechanisms to prevent abuses that may arise in corporate legal relations.

Digital ecosystems and their influence on business relationships

Abstract Our study focuses on digitalization and its effects on business relationships, particularly on the innovative aspect of how the development of digital ecosystems influences these relationships. Digital ecosystems are defined as socio-technical environments in which individuals, organizations, and digital technologies develop collaborative and competitive relationships to create value for their end customers through shared digital platforms. The main characteristics of a digital ecosystem include the existence of digital platforms and symbiosis, which refers to the interdependence between business ecosystems. Methodologically, we adopted a case study research strategy to capture the nature of the activities, resources, and actors involved, as well as the effect of digital ecosystems on the development of business relationships. This study demonstrates that digital ecosystems enhance collaboration and influence companies’ activities and resource ties by enabling real-time communication and information sharing among different actors. This collaboration extends to entities from different industries and digital platforms, which effectively integrate data between companies in real time. Furthermore, actors embedded in digital ecosystems gain several advantages, such as cost reduction, lower network latency (due to the proximity between actors), greater flexibility in establishing new connections within a shorter time frame, and accelerated time-to-market (due to the availability of multiple actors within the same environment). Moreover, actors seek to foster both cooperative and competitive relationships among participating companies, allowing each entity to purchase or transact services in a significantly simpler and more efficient manner.

Цифровые технологии как драйвер трансграничной торговли (на примере мирового рынка телемедицины)

Digital technologies have a significant impact on cross-border trade in medical services, creating both opportunities and challenges. Digitalization of methods for providing the services in question and automation of trade operations, firstly, contribute to increasing efficiency and reducing costs in the medical industry, secondly, simplifies international trade procedures, and thirdly, promotes the development of global business relations. In addition, the use of cross-border digital technologies, including telemedicine, optimizes market processes and develops the international market for the provision of medical services. The global public health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and the global economic downturn caused by a series of lockdowns have accelerated the process of introducing telemedicine into the structure of the global medical services market, increased the amount of research in this area, and increased financial (industry public and private) investments in the technology in question.

Sustainable Management Strategies For Attaining Company’s Goals In The Zimbabwean Mining Industry

The aim of the study was to determine the impact of adopting sustainable management strategies on the attainment of a company‘s goals in the Zimbabwean mining industry. The study adopted a quantitative research approach. Structured questionnaires were administered to a sample size of 278 respondents that was calculated using the Raosoft sample size calculator with a 5% margin of error, 95% confidence interval and 50% response distribution. A cross-sectional survey research design was used with stratified random sampling techniques. The study is hinged on the Resourced Based View Theory. Data were validated through exploratory factor analysis and the triangulation approach to ensure that meaningful findings were obtained. It was then analysed using SPSS® version 21 and AMOS® version 21. Results obtained show that adoption of sustainable management strategies results in environmental balance and social progress, increase productivity and reduce operational costs and eliminate risk posed by mining operations to humans and wildlife. The findings also show that there is a strong positive relationship between sustainable management strategies and company performance. The study recommends the alignment of company strategies to both the internal and external environment since they both influence the future position of the business. For improvement of current study results, the study recommends that future studies be carried out across all provinces in Zimbabwe to improve operational efficiency of mining companies. In addition, comparative studies among other related business sectors are also recommended

Reference Phone Number: A Secure and Quality of Service-Improved SIP-Based Phone System

With the improvement of the internet and the widespread adoption of digital communication devices such as smartphones, VoIP has largely replaced traditional telephone systems. Many companies are deploying VoIP systems due to their scalability and low cost. In this paper, we address the issue of remote clients or traveling employees being unable to contact business partners due to specific phone numbers. We propose a reference phone number mechanism that combines a set of related business partners’ phone numbers to enhance call availability. To ensure the confidentiality of calls, we also designed an algorithm to integrate key exchange protocols into the proposed mechanism. The mechanism can flexibly customize the required security protocols. A performance analysis was conducted by deploying the proposed mechanism in a medium-sized company. The results prove that the mechanism is feasible and the effect is satisfactory.

An Exploration of Business Negotiation Impasses: Conceptualizing the Dual Path Approach

Purpose: An impasse in negotiation could harm relationships, tarnish reputations and jeopardize future opportunities for creating value. The extant literature has focused on how negotiation styles affect successful outcomes, rather than exploring their role in leading to impasses. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to address this gap by exploring how negotiation styles influence the relationship between antecedent factors and the formation of distinct types of negotiation impasses. Design/Methodology: The paper is designed to explore the formation of impasses, with the Dual Path Approach (DPA) with an interdisciplinary methodology, underpinned by the attribution theory. Implications: This paper provides a foundational understanding of how negotiation styles could shape antecedent factors to trigger distinct types of impasses. It offers insights not only to the academia through theoretical implications, but also help practitioners in terms of anticipate, adapt, manage and prevent unwanted or forced impasses across various negotiation contexts, potentially improving business negotiation outcomes and relationships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The role of individual dimensions of business relationship quality and business customer value in building loyalty in microfinance

This study examines the effects of individual dimensions of business relationship quality (BRQ), namely trust, respect, and reciprocity, on business customer value (BCV) and customer loyalty (CL) in the microfinance industry. In addition, the study investigates the mediation effects of BCV on the relationship between the individual dimensions of BRQ and CL. A survey of 509 microenterprises that borrow money from microfinance institutions (MFIs) in Tanzania was conducted. Structural equation modeling was used to analyze the data. Based on the findings, it is concluded that BCV is significantly impacted by respect and trust. BCV, however, is not significantly related to reciprocity. Respect has a positive and significant impact on CL, while trust and reciprocity are not significantly related to CL. Furthermore, the study concludes that CL is positively and significantly impacted by BCV. Regarding the mediation effects, the study concludes that BCV fully mediates the link between trust and CL and partially mediates the link between respect and CL. There is no mediation between reciprocity and CL. The major recommendation of this study is that practitioners and policymakers should establish strategies and policies, respectively, which combine BRQ initiatives such as trust and respect with interventions that increase BCV in order to improve CL. Providing valuable services is difficult if the microentrepreneur is not respected and trusted. CL, in turn, will ensure MFIs’ survival and, hence, foster entrepreneurship development.

Principals and External Stakeholders: The Influence of Personal, Organizational and Environmental Characteristics

This study investigates the relationships between school principals and external stakeholders in Israel's southern district, focusing on the impact of personal, organizational, and environmental characteristics on connections, assistance, satisfaction, and initiative. Israel’s educational landscape is marked by significant socioeconomic, cultural, and geographical diversity, presenting unique challenges and opportunities for school leaders in fostering stakeholder engagement. Using a quantitative research design, 80 principals from elementary and secondary schools participated in a two-part survey. The first section assessed personal, organizational, and environmental characteristics, while the second used four sub-questionnaires to evaluate interactions with 48 external stakeholders. These stakeholders were categorized into formal (e.g., school superintendents), informal (e.g., parents, community organizations), and business entities, and responses were rated on an 8-point Likert scale. Findings show that formal stakeholders, such as school superintendents, have the strongest connections with principals, followed by informal stakeholders and business entities. Female principals reported stronger formal connections, whereas male principals demonstrated greater initiative in engaging business stakeholders. Jewish principals showed stronger business connections than their Arab counterparts. Additionally, school size and socioeconomic status were positively associated with formal and business connections, with autonomous schools showing greater business engagement. Management training and socioeconomic status emerged as the most significant predictors of business initiative. The study highlights the need for targeted efforts to enhance stakeholder engagement in economically disadvantaged areas, particularly in strengthening business relationships and supporting Arab principals. Leadership development and organizational support are critical for fostering effective partnerships tailored to the diverse needs of schools in this region. While the findings provide valuable insights, the study is limited by its geographic focus on southern Israel and the reliance on self-reported data, which may introduce bias. Future research should include additional regions, such as central and northern Israel, and incorporate diverse methodologies to broaden understanding and improve generalizability. This research contributes to the limited literature on principal-stakeholder dynamics in Israel, offering insights into the interplay of personal, organizational, and environmental factors. It underscores the importance of tailored leadership strategies to address the challenges of stakeholder engagement in diverse and resource-constrained educational contexts.

Power Data Analysis and Privacy Protection Based on Federated Learning

In order for active distribution network operators to carry out power business such as load forecasting without meter reading rights, the author proposes a research on power data analysis and privacy protection based on federated learning. The author proposes a federated learning load forecasting framework for industry user data protection by selecting weather and time factors as the correlation factors of load. On this basis, the author constructed an industry user dataset and established a load forecasting model based on Long Short Term Time Series Network (LSTNet). At the same time, the FedML framework was used to establish a sub industry load forecasting framework based on federated learning. The results indicate that: The accuracy of the industry specific load forecasting framework based on federated learning proposed by the author is less than 9 p.u., and the theoretical maximum value of SMAPE is 210 p.u., indicating that this method has universality and universality and can be applied in different industries. The training method of this scheme is parallel, although it increases the interaction time by 1 minute, the interaction time accounts for a smaller proportion compared to the training time, and the time consumption is interaction time (1 minute)+single training time (94 minutes). Conclusion: The method can enable users in the same industry to conduct federated training without sharing load data, and support active distribution network operators in related business operations while protecting user electricity privacy. It has better predictive performance, fewer model numbers, and shorter time consumption.

Intergeneration Dynamics and Knowledge Sharing in Family Business Sustainability

Family business sustainability relies heavily on the interplay of intergenerational dynamics, where the effective transfer of knowledge, values, and relational resources is pivotal. This study explores the role of entrepreneurial knowledge sharing in enhancing intergenerational relationship quality and its subsequent impact on the sustainability of family businesses. Using the Resource-Based View (RBV) as a theoretical foundation, this research investigates how relational resources contribute to competitive advantage in the unique socio-cultural context of Central Java, Indonesia. The study employs Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to analyze data collected from 200 family business owners through purposive sampling. The results demonstrate that entrepreneurial knowledge sharing significantly improves intergenerational relationship quality (β = 0.78, p = 0.012), which, in turn, has a strong positive effect on family business sustainability (β = 0.84, p = 0.007). Furthermore, intergenerational relationship quality acts as a partial mediator (β = 0.35, p = 0.009), amplifying the impact of knowledge sharing on sustainability. The findings highlight the dual role of entrepreneurial knowledge sharing in fostering both relational harmony and business performance. This research contributes to the literature by integrating cultural insights into the RBV framework and offering actionable strategies for family businesses to sustain their legacy. By institutionalizing trust, shared vision, and effective communication practices, family businesses can bridge generational divides and maintain competitiveness in dynamic market environments.

Who I Am and What I Want to Do: Linking Self-Construals and Career Interests

Two studies examined how four self-construals (independent, interdependent, relational, and physical) predict career interests. We hypothesized that (1) independent self-construal would predict career interests in science, law, and art, (2) interdependent self-construal would predict career interests in business and human relations, (3) relational self-construal would predict career interests in family and social services, and (4) physical self-construal would predict career interests in manual labor, trade skills, and athletics. In Study 1 ( n = 240), participants completed online surveys of the four self-construals and the Basic Interest Markers (BIMs). The results showed that the four self-construals predicted corresponding career interests while controlling for sex. Physical self-construal predicted corresponding career interests the most consistently. Study 2 ( n = 149) included a Holland Code survey rather than the BIM. Results showed that independent, interdependent, and physical self-construals predicted corresponding Holland themes while controlling for sex. Implications for Super’s career development approach are discussed.