Change Management Research Articles

Digitalization and Dynamic Criticality Analysis for Railway Asset Management

The primary aim of this paper is to support the optimization of asset management in railway infrastructure through digitalization and criticality analysis. It addresses the current challenges in railway infrastructure management, where data-driven decision making and automation are key for effective resource allocation. The paper presents a methodology that emphasizes the development of a robust data model for criticality analysis, along with the advantages of integrating advanced digital tools. A master table is designed to rank assets and automatically calculate criticality through a novel asset attribute characterization (AAC) process. Digitalization facilitates dynamic, on-demand criticality assessments, which are essential in managing complex networks. The study also underscores the importance of combining digital technology adoption with organizational change management. The data process and structure proposed can be viewed as an ontological framework adaptable to various contexts, enabling more informed and efficient asset ranking decisions. This methodology is derived from its application to a metropolitan railway network, where thousands of assets were evaluated, providing a practical approach for conducting criticality assessments in a digitized environment.

Adolescents’ Experiences in Managing Type 1 Diabetes

Objectives − This study examined perceived changes in diabetes management among adolescents with type 1 diabetes as they transition from childhood to adolescence, focusing on self-management, parental involvement, physical activity, and treatment reflections.Patients and Methods − Qualitative description employing individual semi-structured interviews was utilized with 19 adolescents. Interview data were processed using a content analysis approach.Results − Most adolescents managed their diabetes independently, drawing from years of experience. While some adhered to medical advice, others made independent decisions, prioritizing convenience, or habits. Parental roles varied, from regular supervision to granting autonomy. Many adolescents appreciated parental support, feeling it provided security, though some experienced it as overbearing or insufficient. They had increased independence in managing their diabetes as they grew older. Acceptance of the disease improved with time, aided by technological advancements. Challenges included increased insulin needs and food intake during adolescence, but overall, they felt more confident and responsible in self-management. Despite advancements in technology, practical challenges persist in managing diabetes during physical activity.Conclusion − Adolescents with diabetes generally develop effective self-management skills and appreciate increasing autonomy, though adherence to medical advice varies. Continued parental support and advanced diabetes technologies play crucial roles in their management. Personalized treatment and balanced parental involvement are needed to increase adherence.

Automated Inventory Management Systems with IoT Integration to Optimize Stock Levels and Reduce Carrying Costs for SMEs: A Comprehensive Review

Automated inventory management systems integrated with Internet of Things (IoT) technology represent a transformative approach for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in optimizing their stock levels and reducing carrying costs. A literature review also shows that there is progress in developing automated solutions, such as IoT sensors, real- time data analytics, and cloud-based applications that improve inventory control. A study shows that the adoption of IoT in automation has seen improvement in the accuracy of inventory, a reduction in stockouts, and carrying costs among SMEs. Research suggests operational improvements including reduced downtime from real time tracking, reverse logistics systems with intuitive demand forecasting for ideal stock replenishment and automation of reordering systems while effectively managing working capital. Materials and Methods: Research methodology encompassed a comprehensive analysis of peer-reviewed literature, case studies, and empirical research focusing on automated inventory management systems with IoT integration in SMEs. Criteria for choosing the literature included articles focusing on the outcomes of IoT implementation, technical integration, and performance of inventory systems. Data extraction main concern was on the efficiencies of the SC such as inventory accuracy, carrying costs, stockouts, and ROI. Descriptive methods used involved comparisons between pre-implementation and post- implementation data, use of statistical tools for measurement of performance enhancement and assessment of factors important in the deployment of the system. Results Implementation of IoT-integrated automated inventory management systems demonstrated significant improvements across multiple performance metrics. Studies reported average inventory accuracy improvements of 25-35%, reduction in carrying costs [1] by 20-30%, and decrease in stockout incidents by 35-45%. Real-time monitoring capabilities led to improved demand forecasting accuracy by 40%, while automated reordering systems reduced manual processing time by 60%. Cloud-based platforms enabled better inventory visibility and control, resulting in working capital optimization of 15-25%. SMEs implementing integrated systems reported enhanced supplier collaboration, reduced lead times, and improved customer satisfaction levels. Cost-benefit analyses indicated positive ROI within 12-18 months of system deployment. Discussion Analysis reveals several key factors contributing to successful implementation of automated inventory management systems with IoT integration. Critical success factors include proper system architecture design, effective change management strategies, and comprehensive staff training programs. Integration challenges primarily revolve around initial investment costs, technical expertise requirements, and system interoperability concerns. Studies show that the greater gains are experienced by SMEs with higher ITOR and those engaged in intricate supply chain operations. Literature review also points to differences in implementation strategies across different sectors and in their recovery, with manufacturing and retail sectors having the highest levels of adoption and improvement. Conclusion IoT-integrated automated inventory management solutions should be adopted by SMEs and are affirmed by ample data to help optimize stock status and minimize carrying costs. The tangible benefits that could be noted are accuracy in inventory, less operational costs, visibility of supply chain, and optimal use of working capital. In appointing the factors affecting the implementation success, it requires the assessment of the technical feasibility and organisational readiness as well as the management of change strategies. Research shows that dynamic technology factors will continue to improve the system’s performance and increased availability to SMEs. Due to advancement in IoT technology, artificial intelligence and cloud computing, there are potential factors that may boost the performance and cost of automatically Managed inventory systems in the future.

Enhancement of Patient Engagement and Healthcare Delivery Through the Utilization of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Technologies

Background: Patient engagement refers to the actively involvement of individuals in their own treatment, decision-making, and partnering with healthcare providers. Due to the progress of Artificial Intelligence (AI), there is a groundbreaking shift happening in healthcare that is bringing numerous benefits to patients and health systems. AI technologies are not only used as instruments in healthcare but also evolving into collaborators for diagnosing and treating patients, as well as enhancing the quality of services, offering a personalized, timely, and interactive healthcare experience. This article delves into how AI is changing patient engagement by increasing effectiveness and catering to individual patient requirements. Methods: The research made use of previously published materials on artificial intelligence, data, and robotic technologies in healthcare settings to explore ways in which patients can be effectively involved in the advancement of these technologies in healthcare settings. Results: AI-powered decision support systems improve healthcare operations by giving instant access to data analysis and medical advice, ultimately aiding in making decisions based on real-time evidence. AI enables proactive healthcare interventions by detecting potential health issues in real time, allowing for remote patient monitoring. Motivating patients to actively participate can result in improved adherence to the treatment plan. Overall, patient engagement appears to be the most well-developed and progressive concept for enabling patients to participate actively in their healthcare. Conclusions: AI technologies are more than just tools in healthcare; they are evolving into collaborators in patient involvement, providing a personalized, proactive and engaging healthcare journey. Further evidence is required to comprehend how patients engage in the process and if this leads to better quality of care. In the dynamic health sector, change management is essential for continuously updating and adjusting healthcare facilities to address the evolving needs of patients. Health systems that do not adjust to changes in a timely manner are unsuccessful.

Human Resource Planning Strategy to Improve the Quality of Online Library Management Information Systems (E-Libraries) of Higher Education in the Industrial Era 5.0

Library management information systems in universities are essential for managing e-libraries in universities. The world of education will face one of the challenges after 2030: the use of information technology or robotics in various sectors of human life, one of which is university libraries. This research was conducted using a literature approach by collecting data from various relevant theoretical sources about human resource management and higher education management information systems in the context of university library human resource planning strategies. This article delves into the practical application of library human resource planning strategies in universities. It discusses the formulation of university library human resource planning and the development of human resources in the era of Society 5.0. Furthermore, it explores the challenges and opportunities in implementing these strategies, such as change management, adaptive higher education management information system policies, and the development of librarians' professionalism in the era of society 5.0. This study uses a literature approach by collecting data from relevant theoretical sources about library human resource management and higher education management information systems in the educational context of university library human resource planning strategies. Data is analyzed through systematic literature synthesis to identify university library human resource planning strategies that can improve the quality of management e-library in the era of Society 5.0. In this era, adaptive and technology-oriented human resource management strategies are the key to improving the quality of university e-library management.

AACSB-Accredited Colleges and Universities: An Examination of Standard A5 as a Guide to Prepare Accounting Graduates for the Digital Workplace

Employers demand that accounting graduates are well-versed in information and communication technologies. The Association to Advance the Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) establishes Standards for business and accounting schools, colleges, and universities across the globe. This systematic literature review examines the peer-reviewed research surrounding AACSB-Standard A5 Information Technology Skills, Agility, and Knowledge for Accounting Graduates and Faculty. Specifically, how AACSB-accredited institutions employ Standard A5 to guide curriculum innovation and change management best practices is emphasized. Results underscore the importance and significance of Standard A5 in navigating continuous improvement curriculum efforts in higher education.

Safety and accuracy of the computer interpretation of normal ECGs at triage.

ECGs performed at ED triage are mandatorily assessed by an emergency physician contributing to task interruptions, decreased quality of care and increased error risk. Recent literature suggests that a triage ECG interpreted as normal by the ECG machine software correlates with benign interpretation from attending cardiologists.Ambiguity persists regarding the safety of the normal computerized ECG interpretation and whether real-timephysician review is needed. In this prospective cohort study, we evaluated the GE Marquette 12SL ECG software's clinical accuracy for normal triage ECGs. We compared machine interpretation, ED physicians' real-time interpretation and management as well as cardiologists systematic but delayed review of the ECGs to establish diagnostic accuracy and safety of a normal software interpretation. Additional data were collected from the emergency department patient tracking system and charts to determine patient outcomes when machine normal interpretation differed from ED physicians and cardiologists' analysis. Between November 16th 2020 and November 19th 2021, we collected 1220 machine-normal ECGs performed at Charles-Le Moyne Hospital ED triage. 1051 ECGs were eligible for inclusion. ED physicians agreed with the machine for 1028 normal diagnoses (97.8% IC (0.95): 96.7-98.5) and cardiologists agreed with the machine for 1037 ECGs (98.7% IC (0.95) 97.8-99.2). Relevant changes in ED management were recorded in three patients (0.29% IC (0.95): 0.1-0.8) whose ECGs were read as normal by the software: two emergent referrals to the catheterization lab and one emergent transfer to the resuscitation bay with next day coronarography. A normal ECG interpretation from the GE Marquette 12SL ECG software at ED triage has a very high accuracy and a very low probability of clinically relevant change in patient outcome and ED trajectory.

Pain chronification risk assessment: advanced phenotyping and scoring for prediction and treatments tailored to individualized patient profile

AbstractAcute pain is a physiologic, protective life-important warning neurological signal indicating multi-level tissue modulations caused by a broad spectrum of health adverse events such as stress overload, mechanical trauma, ischemia–reperfusion, sterile and infection-triggered inflammation, single- and multi-organ damage, acute and chronic wounds, tissue remodeling and degeneration, amongst others. On the other hand, pain chronification results in a pathologic transformation from the protective pain signaling into persistent debilitative medical condition with severe consequences including but not restricted to phenotype-specific behavioral patterns, reduced quality of life, and cognitive and mood disorders. Who is predisposed to an increased vs. decreased pain sensitivity and to the pain chronification? The motivation of personalized medicine that “same size does not fit all” is getting obvious also for an advanced approach in algesiology. Consequently, an in-depth patient stratification is essential for the paradigm change in overall pain management from currently applied reactive medical services to the cost-effective predictive, preventive, and personalized medicine (PPPM/3PM) in primary (reversible damage to health and targeted protection against health-to-disease transition) and secondary (personalized protection against disease progression) care. To this end, specifically innovative concepts of phenotyping elaborated in this study play a crucial role in patient stratification for predicting pain-associated outcomes, evidence-based targeted prevention of the pain chronification, and creation of treatment algorithms tailored to individualized patient profiles.

Developing dynamic capabilities for successful digital transformation projects: the mediating role of change management

Developing dynamic capabilities for successful digital transformation projects: the mediating role of change management

Tracing human influence on rising surface air temperature in Venezuela.

The rise in surface air temperature (SAT) in Venezuela, leading to the loss of all its glaciers, underscores the urgency of understanding human contributions to this phenomenon. This study investigates the impact of anthropogenic climate forcings on SAT across Venezuela, employing observational data, multi-model simulations, and optimal fingerprinting method. Anthropogenic forcings have driven a 0.40-0.85 C SAT rise during the industrial era, with land use (LU) emerging as a significant driver (0.36-0.68 C), surpassing greenhouse gases (GHGs) (0.10-0.62 C). Conversely, anthropogenic aerosols (Aaer) exhibit a cooling effect (- 0.93 to - 0.25 C) on SAT. Projections under Representative Concentration Pathways 4.5 indicate substantial SAT increases by the 21st century's end, underscoring human-induced SAT rise. Effective management of regional Aaer and LU changes in Venezuela holds the potential for mitigating current and future warming and its subsequent impacts on the fragile ecosystem of this region.

Key Competencies for the Management of Educational Change: The Voice of Heads of Maltese Primary State Schools

Key Competencies for the Management of Educational Change: The Voice of Heads of Maltese Primary State Schools

Logistics Management and Service Delivery in Humanitarian Organisations in Kenya: A Case Study of Kenya Red Cross Society

The goal was to assess the effects of supplier management and information management on the KRCS’s service delivery. Goal-Setting Theory is the main theory, supported by resource-based view and institutional theory. The study targeted a population of 300 individuals using a descriptive research approach. A total of 171 individuals were chosen for the sample size using stratified random sampling. Data was acquired by means of surveys. Basic statistics were used to assess the quantitative data, and SPSS version 27 was used for data analysis. Tables were used to display the data. Inferential statistics were used to illustrate the link between the variables. Throughout the course of the study, the research investigation was guided by a few ethical criteria. The R2 values for the relationship between supplier management and service delivery were 0.642, indicating a positive association, and 0.499, suggesting that changes in supplier management may account for 49.9% of the variation in service delivery. fundamental correlation between service delivery and information management (R = 0.595), with an R2 value of 0.431, while the DV was service delivery. To ensure successful logistics management and service delivery, KRCS should improve supplier management and service delivery, which is necessary, and that they can balance organizational goals and priorities with the supplier's perspective on challenges. This will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the processes that the KRCS and communities in need of support use. KRCS service delivery can be increased by using auto- technologies. Independent variable technologies are welcomed since they will make product marking more accurate and efficient, which will improve operations.

BN SO33 - The complex benign multi-disciplinary team meeting - a paradigm shift in decision making for benign oesophagogastric surgery

Abstract Background Decision making in benign OG pathology can be particularly challenging given the overlap with functional disorders, such as reflux hypersensitivity. A specialist benign oesophagogastric (OG) multidisciplinary team (MDT) may improve our ability to triage potential surgical candidates from those with functional conditions. Unlike in OG cancer, there is a paucity of evidence to support an MDT based approach in benign OG surgery. This study aims to report our experience of introducing a specialist benign OG MDT in an OG tertiary centre in the UK, examining the effect on decision making and an assessment of its acceptability and utility to clinicians. Method A review of consecutive cases discussed in the specialist benign OG MDT since inception in 2022 was undertaken. We reviewed indications, treatment plans and outcomes, any alteration in treatment pathway and final decisions. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients with a change in management as a result of MDT discussion. Where applicable, results were reported using descriptive statistics. A seven-item electronic questionnaire was also circulated to MDT members (OG surgeons, specialist gastroenterologists, GI radiographers, GI physiologists, and doctors in training), to assess the acceptability and perceived utility of the meetings. Results 74 patient cases were discussed (median age 57.5 (25-79) years). 71/74 (96.0%) of referrals were made by OG surgeons, most commonly to discuss anti-reflux procedures (53/74 (71.6%)). 34/74 (45.9%) patients had undergone previous surgery, most commonly laparoscopic fundoplication. MDT discussion led to a change in management in 43/74 (58.1%) case with recommendations of further investigation (23.0%), further OG clinic review (18.9%) and 21.6% listed for surgery. 12/74 (16.2%) were referred to other specialist services, including clinical psychology. Survey confirmed that all MDT members found their understanding of oesophageal physiology and subsequent decision-making ability in clinic was greatly enhanced. Conclusion Our results show that the complex benign MDT is an effective tool, demonstrating changes to management in over half of cases discussed, including recommending surgery less frequently following specialist review of physiology investigations. Such tests effectively identify functional disorders, such as rumination, highlighting a need for clear onward referral pathways involving specialist psychologists. The meetings have also proven to be valuable learning tools for all attendees of all grades. We strongly believe that adopting an MDT approach to benign OG conditions will enhance collaborative decision making, improve patient outcomes and therefore should be nationally mandated and recommended through AUGIS guidelines.

How Managers Experience Downsizing: Navigating among Professional, Loyal, Empathic, and Critical Positions

ABSTRACT Downsizing, a significant organizational change, is often entrusted to middle managers. These agents play a crucial role in navigating the complexities of downsizing, yet we know little about their downsizing experiences. In this study, our research question was: how do managers who have to lay off people experience downsizing. We used discourse analysis to describe what we refer to as ‘discursive positions’ adopted by downsizing agents in our interviews. Our research material comprises 21 interviews in a large Finnish manufacturing company that underwent a downsizing process. We show how 12 downsizing agents navigated among different discursive positions while serving many conflicting interests. The rationalistic positions of Professional and Loyal target the shareholders, other business professionals, and the employer. The position of Empathic addresses subordinates, and the position of Critical is directed at top management and human resource professionals. We show how discursive positions are divided into rational and emotional spheres and examine the strong tensions between them. It appears that middle managers apply several often-contradictory discursive positions, struggle with satisfying conflicting expectations from top management and from their subordinates, and use several coping methods. MAD statement A common challenge for change managers is that they are brought in only after a downsizing decision has already been made. Sustainable change management requires ongoing preparation for change, regardless of whether downsizing or restructuring is imminent. This proactive approach helps all stakeholders to respond responsibly when an urgent situation arises. It also reduces the need for abrupt action and prevents reactive, high-speed learning that often accompanies such crises. We recommend that companies establish a cross-functional change team to develop long-term personnel reduction strategies. While constant change is often celebrated in management, we argue that many organizations would benefit from maintaining a reasonable degree of stability.

Strategic changes in talent development and leadership management in the funeral service industry in Hong Kong

PurposeThis paper identifies the strategic changes and explores the solutions for talent development and leadership management to address the challenges faced by the funeral service industry in Hong Kong.Design/methodology/approachIn this study, semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with seven key personnel (funeral director, salesperson, coffin shop owner, and mortuary transporter) engaged in the funeral service industry in Hong Kong. Thematic coding was used to identify and organize emerging themes from the data.FindingsFour overarching themes were identified: (1) Perception of the funeral service industry in Hong Kong; (2) Recruitment, retention, and talent development; (3) Prospects of the funeral service industry in Hong Kong; and (4) Other novel challenges. The findings reveal continuous, radical, and complex challenges that may exceed the capacity of any leader to develop workable solutions.Originality/valueThe funeral service industry is facing radical challenges in modern times. A death-denying attitude is observed, which has severely undermined the study of the funeral service industry.

AI Tools in the Digital Transformation Programmes of Industrial Enterprises

This article is devoted to the study of the prospects for the development and implementation of AI in industry in the context of digital transformation. Autonomous factories, integrated supply chains, and autonomous vehicles is a real proof of technological advances that AI brings to life. The article highlights a number of problems and challenges for Russian industry based on the results of applied research conducted in November-December 2023 at 18 medium and large industrial enterprises. The main conclusions include not only the identified systemic problems and risks (shortcomings in digitalisation methodology, ambiguity in calculating economic parameters, lack of technical expertise), but also the most promising areas for the development of AI technologies. The study finds significant potential for enhancing the technologies of the Industry 3.0 and Industry 4.0 paradigms using AI tools. Also, it describe the necessary changes in enterprise management and regulatory government activities aimed at realising the identified potential. In conclusion, the article emphasises the need to optimise parallel imports, develop human capital and adequately analyse the economic parameters of industrial enterprises’ digital transformation project. The authors emphasise the relevance of studying the prospects for the development of AI in industry for Russian economic science in the period 2024–2026.

OGC SO09 - Embracing change: Reproducible protocol for enhanced recovery after esophagectomy

Abstract Background Esophagectomy for cancer of the oesophagus is a complex surgery with significant morbidity. Protocols have been proposed to enhance recovery and reduce morbidities after this surgery. A decade ago, we have introduced major changes to the traditional perioperative management of esophagectomy patients and have been able to introduce these changes and reproduce the same results in three different countries. Method While working in the NHS, the main author has introduced many changes in the perioperative management of esophagectomy patients. The major changes included: 1- Injection of 200 units of Botox into the pylorus in the week prior to surgery. 2- No use of thoracic epidural and use of intercostal block instead. 3- Hybrid minimally invasive esophagectomy(HMIO) (Laparoscopic abdominal part and right thoracotomy). 4- Use of Heimlich valve instead of under-water seal bottle. 5- Avoidance of Opiate use and walking the patient on day 1 postoperatively. These changes were introduced in two other countries namely; Egypt and Dubai. Results We studied 151 consequtive cases of esophagectomy from January 2014 till April 2024 (102 cases were performed in NHS Wales and 49 cases were performed in Egypt and Dubai). Median age was 69 and range of 38 - 83 years. 94% had adenocarcinoma and 88% were stage 2b -3b. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy were given to 91% of patients. All patients had the described changes applied. Overall complication rate is 17.2% with Clavien-Dindo score of ≥ 3a in 8%. Anastomotic leak and 90-day mortality were 2.6%. Median hospital length of stay is 5 days. There were no difference of outcomes in the three countries. Conclusion Preoperative injection of Botox into the pylorus, use of Heimlich valve instead of under-water seal bottle, use of intercostal block instead of thoracic epidural and avoidance of Opiate use when applied to HMIO significantly improve the short-term outcomes after esophagectomy. These changes and outcomes are reproducible.

Governance and Leadership in Advancing Entrepreneurial Universities: Exploring Awareness and Change Dynamics in South Africa

This research explores the role of awareness, as framed by the ADKAR (Awareness, Desire, Knowledge, Ability, and Reinforcement) change management model, in driving the transformation of South African higher education institutions (HEIs) into Entrepreneurial Universities (EnU). The study focuses on the critical question of whether raising awareness of entrepreneurship among academics can catalyse transformative changes within universities, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset and practices across the institution. In the context of South Africa’s socio-economic challenges, such as high unemployment and inequality, entrepreneurial universities are seen as key drivers of innovation and economic development. The research findings underscore that awareness, the foundational step of the ADKAR model, is essential for initiating the entrepreneurial shift within HEIs. Academics who are aware of the importance of entrepreneurship are more likely to engage in activities that promote innovation, student entrepreneurship, and industry collaboration. However, the study also highlights that awareness alone is insufficient for a full institutional transformation. Leadership commitment and active involvement are critical in moving beyond awareness to implement sustainable entrepreneurial initiatives. Without strong leadership that aligns institutional governance structures and policies with entrepreneurial objectives, the entrepreneurial agenda may struggle to gain traction. The research concludes that while raising awareness among academics is a necessary first step, leadership at universities must also be equipped with the skills and understanding to champion entrepreneurship at an institutional level. Comprehensive leadership training, continuous evaluation of entrepreneurial initiatives, and fostering cross-departmental and external collaborations are essential for sustaining momentum towards the full realisation of Entrepreneurial Universities in South Africa. This study contributes to the broader discourse on entrepreneurship in higher education by providing insights into the specific challenges and opportunities facing South African universities as they navigate the path towards becoming entrepreneurial institutions.

Change-oriented Leadership in the Context of Transitioning to Strategic Autonomy

Growing geopolitical tensions have transformed the business landscape , driving domestic firms toward an era of strategic independence (Yale School of Management, 2024). This research examines a well-known Eastern European consulting firm that, after transitioning to an independent entity, was confronted with a new personnel assessment system. This shift necessitates a comprehensive understanding of employee readiness and resistance — fundamental concepts in change management literature (Armenakis et al., 1993). Our study incorporated quantitative methods to divide employees according to their readiness for the new system (k-means clustering, factor analysis, and discriminant analysis). At the same time, it employed qualitative research methods to explore motives and attitudes behind employee resistance or readiness (Choi & Ruona, 2011). Based on their adaptability to the new system, we identified three distinct clusters of employees: “Active Supporters,” “Cautious Appraisers,” and “Conservative Skeptics,” allowing us to pinpoint specific non-readiness factors and formulate tailored strategies to address them. The findings suggest that emotional involvement, openness to change, and previous experiences with similar practices significantly influence employee readiness. To mitigate these issues, the paper proposes a strategy rooted in psychological safety and differentiated error management, as advocated by Edmondson (2023), to enhance the organization's learning capability and adaptability. Our results align with previous research indicating that stronger attitudes, often based on personal experience, significantly predict behavior (Eagly & Chaiken, 1993). We found that the initial uncertainty of organizational changes served as a major stressor, underscoring the importance of understanding and conceptualizing changes (Kramer, 2015). Unlike Schwartz (1994), the value orientation of “Tradition” did not exert significant influence, but values of “Autonomy,” “Stimulation,” “Achievement” (consistent with Sortheix & Lönnqvist, 2014), “Hedonism,” and “Power” positively impacted employee openness to changes. The implications of this study extend to other Eastern European companies undergoing similar transitions, providing guidance on how change can be managed effectively in the context of transitioning to strategic autonomy.

CEOs’ Perceptions of Loneliness in the Workplace: An Exploratory Study

Loneliness among CEOs is a topic that draws the attention of leadership experts, as it was suggested that it’s a less explored topic in leadership studies (Wright et al., 2023). The popular phrase “it’s lonely at the top” suggests that top managers frequently experience loneliness in their roles. Not having someone close to confide in is a challenge for many leaders at work (George, 2015). CEO loneliness can have negative effects both individually (e.g., health, well-being and stress) and organizationally (e.g., commitment, employee perceptions of the CEO and turnover) (Wright et al., 2023; Chen et al., 2021). The aim of this study was therefore to explore how CEOs perceived and experienced workplace loneliness; more specifically, we sought to identify what types of loneliness they encounter most often, what situations may trigger workplace loneliness, and how CEOs cope with loneliness in the workplace, in Norwegian organizational settings. Based on empirical results from 14 in-depth qualitative interviews with CEOs of small and medium-sized companies, it appeared they had experienced state loneliness at work and that none of them had reported trait loneliness. State loneliness often arose in situations such as confidentiality cases, decision-making processes and change management processes. Due to the nature of the CEO role, our participants stated that they often accepted the loneliness in the workplace as part of their role, which might suggest a potential coping strategy that they utilize. Other coping strategies that were found include disconnection techniques and the use of their support networks. Addressing this topic adds value to empirical research on leadership by raising awareness of the challenges of loneliness that business leaders in positions of power, specifically CEOs in a Norwegian cultural context, face in the workplace when performing their duties. It provides insight into the types of loneliness experienced, the situations that can trigger CEO loneliness, and how loneliness in the workplace can be addressed and mitigated.