Innovation Challenges Research Articles

Humanoid Robots in Tourism and Hospitality—Exploring Managerial, Ethical, and Societal Challenges

The paper evaluates the benefits and challenges of employing humanoid robots in tourism and hospitality, examining their roles, decision-making processes, human-centric approaches, and oversight mechanisms. Data will be collected from a variety of sources, including academic journals, websites of the companies where the robots operate, case studies, and news articles. Specific attention will be given to concrete examples of humanoid robots deployed in the tourism and hospitality sector, such as Connie, Spencer, and Henn-na Hotel’s robots. Robots highlight the potential to assume roles traditionally occupied by humans. The presence of humanoid robots also influences cultural practices and social interactions within the hospitality context. Humanoid robots also have the potential to improve equity and accessibility in the tourism and hospitality industry. The interaction between humans and humanoid robots can have psychological and emotional effects on both guests and employees. Finally, the usage of humanoid robots intersects with broader sustainability operational efficiency and customer satisfaction across various sectors within the tourism and hospitality industry. Introducing humanoid robots represents a challenge in innovation that holds promise for revolutionizing service delivery and guest experiences.

NAVIGATING THE DIGITAL MAZE: INNOVATIVE STRATEGIES AND HURDLES IN ONLINE GRAMMAR INSTRUCTION

This study investigates innovative strategies and challenges in online grammar instruction within the English Language Education Department at IAIN Parepare, Indonesia. As digital learning becomes increasingly integrated into higher education, the research focuses on the experiences of 40 students and 5 online grammar instructors. Through a mixed-methods approach, incorporating surveys of all 40 students and in-depth interviews with the 5 tutors, this study investigates the adaptation of traditional grammar teaching methods to digital platforms. Key findings reveal that interactive tools, gamification, and personalized learning paths significantly enhance student engagement and comprehension in online grammar lessons. However, challenges such as varying levels of digital literacy among students, maintaining consistent motivation in virtual environments, and the limitations of asynchronous communication emerge as significant hurdles. The study concludes by proposing a tailored framework for effective online grammar instruction at IAIN Parepare, emphasizing the integration of culturally relevant multimedia resources, collaborative learning activities, and adaptive assessment techniques. These insights contribute to the growing body of knowledge on digital pedagogy in Indonesian higher education and offer practical implications for educators navigating the complexities of online language instruction in similar institutional settings.

A governability lesson for the Blue Economy: the collapse of mobile salmon aquaculture in the Norwegian coastal zone

Inspired by governability and evolutionary governance theory, this paper studies innovative aquaculture technologies that aim to contribute to the transition toward a sustainable blue economy. By tracing path, inter-, and goal dependencies, we explore a case related to developing new production systems in the Norwegian salmon aquaculture industry. As further development using conventional production systems is deemed unsustainable, the government has incentivised technological innovation to alleviate environmental and spatial pressures limiting industry expansion. We describe the work behind enrolling one innovative technology into the coastal governance system. As we find, there are conflicts between the conditions in governance that technological innovations depend on for realisation versus the conditions the governance system depends on for governability. Through our relational approach, we display how innovation challenges governability and that achieving Blue Economy objectives may require considerable political and administrative reorganisation of the existing governance setup.

Contemporary Challenges for Sharia Financial Institutions to Increase Competitiveness and Product Innovation Perspective of Sharia Economic Law: Evidence in Indonesia

Globalisation and technological advancement present contemporary challenges for Indonesia's Sharia Financial Institutions (LKS) in maintaining competitiveness and innovating. This study examines these challenges, including the acceleration of financial technology (fintech), regulatory changes, and rising consumer expectations for inclusive and efficient services. LKS is required to continuously innovate and create products that meet the needs of a dynamic market while still following the principles of Sharia economic law. This research discusses how LKS integrates fintech and Islamic financial technology in their operations. This research uses a qualitative method with a descriptive-analytical approach. Data were collected through a literature study and document analysis related to government regulations and policies regarding Sharia Financial Institutions. The literature study and document analysis also included laws and regulations related to Islamic finance, Islamic economic law regulations, academic articles (journals), and books that discuss product innovation and competitiveness challenges of Sharia Financial Institutions. This study found that regulations such as the Financial Services Authority Regulation (POJK) and the fatwa of the National Sharia Council of the Indonesian Ulema Council (DSN-MUI) provide a legal basis to support such innovation. However, LKS still faces challenges such as competition with conventional financial institutions, regulatory changes, and technological disruption. To remain competitive, LKS must adjust innovations such as Sharia fintech and crowdfunding following Sharia principles. In addition, public education on Sharia products is also important to increase financial inclusion. Through innovations such as factoring, bespoke financing, and solutions for online businesses, LKS can improve efficiency and empower small businesses while contributing to sustainable economic growth.

Digital Banking Across the Balkans: Navigating Adoption, Innovation, and Regional Challenges

Digital banking has emerged as a major force in reshaping financial services globally, providing greater access, efficiency, and cost savings. This study focuses on the usage and adoption of digital banking in the Balkan countries, including Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, and Slovenia. These nations, at varying stages of economic development and regulatory alignment, offer a unique context for exploring the trends, drivers, and barriers to digital banking. The article begins by examining the global rise of digital banking and its potential to address financial inclusion, particularly in emerging markets. It then provides an in-depth analysis of the Balkan region, where some countries have embraced digital banking more rapidly, while others face challenges such as limited infrastructure, digital literacy, and regulatory hurdles. Through a comparative analysis, this paper identifies the key factors influencing digital banking penetration, including technological advancements, economic conditions, regulatory frameworks, and consumer trust. The study utilizes secondary data from a range of sources, including financial reports, statistical databases, and academic literature. Received: 2 August 2024 / Accepted: 31 October 2024 / Published: 3 December 2024

Introduction to OLJ Volume 28, Issue 3, Section II

This section of the special issue of Online Learning explores a range of innovative strategies and challenges within online education, with contributions that examine student engagement, faculty support, accessibility, and instructional design. Together, these studies contribute new insights for developing inclusive and supportive online learning environments.

Ocular drug delivery systems: A comprehensive review of innovative formulations, challenges and opportunities

The human eye's complex anatomy and physiology pose significant challenges to effective ocular drug delivery. This comprehensive review explores the eye's structure, ocular disorders such as cataracts, conjunctivitis, glaucoma, and fungal keratitis, and various ocular drug delivery systems. The review discusses the advantages and disadvantages of ocular drug delivery systems, including topical administration, intravitreal injection, subconjunctival routes, and implantable devices. Novel formulations such as nanosuspensions, microemulsions, liposomes, and niosomes are examined for their potential to overcome anatomical limitations and enhance bioavailability. The mechanisms of drug release, including diffusion, osmosis, and bio-erosion, are also discussed. Furthermore, the review highlights the importance of targeting specific ocular tissues and overcoming defensive mechanisms to achieve optimal therapeutic efficacy.

Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education: Balancing Innovation and Ethical Challenges

Harnessing Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education: Balancing Innovation and Ethical Challenges

Exploring the Application of Game Engine in Creating 2D Fighting Game

With the burgeoning growth of the digital entertainment industry, 2D side-scrolling fighting games, as a classic genre, are confronted with the dual challenges of innovation and technological renewal. To address these challenges, this study aims to delve into the development techniques and methodologies of 2D side-scrolling fighting games, with a particular focus on leveraging game engines to enhance the overall quality and player experience of the games. Utilizing a combination of literature review, case study, and empirical research, this study conducts a thorough assessment of current mainstream fighting game engines. By analyzing successful cases of 2D side-scrolling fighting games both domestically and internationally, this research endeavors to distill an effective development process and key technical points to guide game developers in making more informed decisions during the design and implementation phases. The findings of this study not only contribute to improving the playability and market competitiveness of games but also offer new perspectives and strategies for the sustainable development of the gaming industry.

Bridging Local Innovations and Global Challenges in STEM Education

The November 2024 edition of the International Journal of Research in STEM Education (IJRSE) presents a curated collection of eight articles that explore the dynamic intersection of local innovations and global challenges within STEM education. This issue features contributions from 12 universities located across five countries and spanning three continents, illustrating the global scope and diverse perspectives that inform current STEM educational practices. The articles delve into various themes, including the effective integration of indigenous knowledge systems alongside modern educational techniques, the implementation of cutting-edge pedagogical strategies, and the crucial importance of fostering inclusivity and accessibility within STEM fields. Through a detailed examination of these topics, this issue not only highlights the unique contributions of different educational contexts but also underscores the universal challenges and opportunities that shape STEM education in today's interconnected world.

The Application of Augmented Reality Technology in Perioperative Visual Guidance: Technological Advances and Innovation Challenges.

In contemporary medical practice, perioperative visual guidance technology has become a critical element in enhancing the precision and safety of surgical procedures. This study provides a comprehensive review of the advancements in the application of Augmented Reality (AR) technology for perioperative visual guidance. This review begins with a retrospective look at the evolution of AR technology, including its initial applications in neurosurgery. It then delves into the technical challenges that AR faces in areas such as image processing, 3D reconstruction, spatial localization, and registration, underscoring the importance of improving the accuracy of AR systems and ensuring their stability and consistency in clinical use. Finally, the review looks forward to how AR technology could be further facilitated in medical applications with the integration of cutting-edge technologies like skin electronic devices and how the incorporation of machine learning could significantly enhance the accuracy of AR visual systems. As technology continues to advance, there is ample reason to believe that AR will be seamlessly integrated into medical practice, ushering the healthcare field into a new "Golden Age".

Innovative strategies and challenges mosquito-borne disease control amidst climate change.

The revival of the transmission dynamics of mosquito-borne diseases grants striking challenges to public health intensified by climate change worldwide. This inclusive review article examines multidimensional strategies and challenges linked to climate change and the epidemiology of mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, Zika, chikungunya, and yellow fever. It delves into how the biology, pathogenic dynamics, and vector distribution of mosquitoes are influenced by continuously rising temperatures, modified rainfall patterns, and extreme climatic conditions. We also highlighted the high likelihood of malaria in Africa, dengue in Southeast Asia, and blowout of Aedes in North America and Europe. Modern predictive tools and developments in surveillance, including molecular gears, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and remote sensing have boosted our capacity to predict epidemics. Integrated data management techniques and models based on climatic conditions provide a valuable understanding of public health planning. Based on recent data and expert ideas, the objective of this review is to provide a thoughtful understanding of existing landscape and upcoming directions in the control of mosquito-borne diseases regarding changing climate. This review determines emerging challenges and innovative vector control strategies in the changing climatic conditions to ensure public health.

Citi Foundation awards $2.5 million as part of Global Innovation Challenge

Citi Foundation awards $2.5 million as part of Global Innovation Challenge

Citi Foundation awards $2.5 million in Global Innovation Challenge grants.

Citi Foundation awards $2.5 million in Global Innovation Challenge grants.

Unlocking Enterprise Innovation: The Impact of Big Data Analytics and External Network Relationships

Abstract. Innovation drives modern industry and enhances enterprise competitiveness. Despite China's progress, evident by its 14th position in the Global Innovation Index 2020, a gap remains compared to Western developed nations. Enterprises are key to national innovation, especially in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. Big data presents new opportunities and challenges for innovation. This study explores how enterprises can leverage big data to improve innovation outcomes, identifying factors that influence this process. Grounded in resource-based and social network theories, the research employs questionnaires to assess big data analytic capabilities, external network relationships, and innovation performance. Using hierarchical regression analysis and reliability tests, findings reveal that foundational and management capabilities of big data significantly impact innovation, while technical capabilities do not. External network relationships partially mediate this effect. The results offer insights for managers on utilizing big data and strengthening external ties to drive innovation and competitive advantage.

How to Host an Innovation Challenge: Inspire Student Creativity and Problem-Solving

How to Host an Innovation Challenge: Inspire Student Creativity and Problem-Solving

The Challenges of Innovation: A Societal, Economic and Technological Triptych

This article explores the multifaceted challenges of innovation through a tripartite lens encompassing societal, economic and technological perspectives. Beginning with an overview of the historical importance of innovation and its evolving definitions, the article delves into its conceptual landscape, dissecting innovation into invention, creativity and new product development. The discussion then turns to innovation challenges, starting with social issues such as social inclusion and the evolving role of public authorities in innovation governance. Economic challenges are addressed, highlighting the need for innovation for economic growth while recognizing its potential for job destruction and industry disruption. Finally, technological challenges, including data security, sustainability, and equitable access, are examined. The article has a triptych contribution since it underlines the importance of meeting these challenges to promote socially inclusive, economically equitable and technologically responsible innovation. Thus, innovation presents opportunities for progress, but careful management and ethical considerations are essential for a sustainable and balanced future.

Innovation challenges and benefits in high-tech start-ups: A quantitative analysis of university student entrepreneurs in Romania

This article analyses the entrepreneurial students’ attitudes towards innovations developed in high-tech industries, with the aim of identifying the benefits brought to the entrepreneurial ecosystem. It also identifies the main challenges that entrepreneurial students are faced with when developing innovations in high-tech start-ups. The empirical study used the quantitative methodology with the hypotheses tested with the independence tests for a sample of 98 students (n=98) from Romanian universities. The results confirm that students would start-up a new business in the activity fields connected to their studies whereas an association between their start-up idea and innovation in high-tech businesses was identified, with the need of proper managerial education. Hence, our findings demonstrate that there are variances between genders with regard to the challenges of implementing innovations in high-tech start-ups. They also show that the start-up ideas, according to their innovation type (application, platform or device with software), bring different benefits to entrepreneurs, within the three business fields they belong to: Earth problem-solving, business engineering and human and animal welfare. In this respect, our conclusions have significant implications for both the literature and practice of entrepreneurship.

Age-friendly cities enhancing ageing: accelerating digital inclusion for India’s elderly

Purpose This exploration begins with understanding the concept of age-friendly cities and communities as guided by the World Health Organisation. The purpose of this study is to assesses the potential of the concept of age-friendly cities and how these initiatives are driven by commitments to create an environment that promotes active ageing, leveraging digital tools and technologies to enhance connectivity, accessibility and overall well-being of the older. Design/methodology/approach The viewpoint discussed the diverse ways in which the unique concept of age-friendly cities or living areas can be explored in India. Such concepts will create a more inclusive society for the older people around us. Findings The viewpoint highlighted a few global cases of age-friendly cities. It emphasised their innovative approaches, lessons learned, best practices and challenges. These real-time examples inspire, showing us the potential and success of such initiatives. They also help us understand the areas we must work on to create such environments for our older people. The chapter also evaluates the initiatives and projects undertaken in India so far to enhance the living experience of the older, integrating digital technologies. By analysing India’s journey towards age-friendly initiatives, the discussion provides detailed insights for policymakers and other societal stakeholders to broaden the development framework that holistically incorporates the ageing population’s needs. Originality/value The concept of age-friendly cities in India is not just a new approach but a crucial one in the near future. Owing to the existing diversity in our country, this discussion presented in this viewpoint will help to emphasise the need to create separate policies and implement the same at various levels. Ageing is inevitable, and this study’s reflections will also allow families and society to prioritise the needs of older adults in their families and around them. This work will also create an opportunity for all society’s stakeholders to look at older adults’ needs differently and more practically, underlining the urgency and importance of this issue.

Artificial Intelligence Approach to Business Process Re-Engineering the Information Flow of Warehouse Shipping Orders: An Italian Case Study

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing and significantly shaping the work environment. It not only presents an innovative and unique challenge, but it also creates numerous opportunities in various sectors. This study aims to examine a case of artificial intelligence use in the logistics sector, specifically the implementation of text recognition algorithms that use advanced artificial intelligence technology to perform tasks and activities typically carried out by human operators. The implementation under analysis was carried out at an Italian company in Tolentino, in the province of Macerata. The implementation of this tool focuses on the ability to autonomously read shipping notes, with the aim of simplifying the flow of information in the goods receipt phase and reducing the workload of warehouse staff. As illustrated in the following chapters, when artificial intelligence follows several trainings, technical improvements and structural changes in shipping notes, the flow is greatly simplified, significantly facilitating this logistics phase.