Business Competitive Advantage Research Articles

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

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

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

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

Examining the relationship between organizational capabilities and business sustainability among start-ups: a dynamic capability view

Purpose Start-ups require a competitive advantage to integrate sustainable practices and develop organizational capabilities to thrive in dynamic business environments. However, implementation of these practices presents several ethical challenges. This study aims to quantify the influence of organizational capabilities (information technology capabilities and organizational virtues) on start-ups' competitive advantage and readiness to implement environmental, social and governance practices. Design/methodology/approach This study employed a survey design, and data were collected from 320 start-up founders and/or managers in India. The data were analyzed using Smart PLS 4.0. Findings The findings suggest that organizational capabilities, including information technology capabilities and organizational virtues, play an important role in enhancing start-ups' competitive advantage and readiness to implement sustainable practices. Dynamic capability mediates these relationships, while entrepreneurial orientation moderates the relationship between organizational virtues and dynamic capability. Practical implications This study has significant implications for organizations implementing sustainable business practices through the development and nurturance of organizational virtues and information technology capabilities. The study is also useful for leaders, managers and entrepreneurs in training and development, managing tradeoffs and maintaining important organizational capabilities to establish a balance between people’s concerns, the environment and profits. Originality/value Few studies have examined the role of organizational capabilities, sustainable business practices and competitive advantage in the context of start-ups. This study contributes to the literature on sustainable entrepreneurship and organizational capabilities.

The Impact of Cloud Technology on Entrepreneurship in the Hospitality Industry

Purpose: Cloud technology has significantly transformed modern business operations, particularly within the hospitality industry, by offering scalable, cost-effective, and flexible computing solutions. This paradigm shift has democratized access to advanced tools and services, thereby enhancing operational efficiency and competitive capability for entrepreneurs. This integrative paper examines the impact of cloud computing on entrepreneurship within the hospitality sector, focusing on operational efficiency, cost structures, scalability, and innovation. Materials and Methods: By employing the Resource-Based View (RBV) and Innovation Diffusion Theory (IDT), this integrative study provides a framework for understanding how cloud technology enhances competitive advantage and adoption patterns. Findings: Through a comprehensive review of literature and case studies, this study identifies and addresses critical research gaps, including the limited empirical evidence on the long-term effects of cloud technology on business growth, sustainability, and competitive advantage. It also highlights the need for further exploration of regional differences in cloud technology adoption, particularly in emerging markets, and underscores the insufficient exploration of security and privacy concerns, advocating for more detailed research on cloud security models. Moreover, the study seeks to bridge gaps in understanding how cloud technology drives innovation in service delivery and customer experience. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Policy contributions from this study include recommending targeted guidelines for secure cloud adoption, strategies for addressing regional disparities in cloud technology implementation, and policy frameworks that support innovation while safeguarding data privacy. Recommendations for entrepreneurs include strategically adopting cloud solutions, investing in staff training, and continuously monitoring cloud-related expenses. This study ultimately contributes to a nuanced understanding of cloud technology’s role in shaping entrepreneurial practices and policies within the hospitality sector.

Reducing Technical Debt through Strategic Leadership in Retail Technology Systems

In the fast-paced and highly competitive landscape of retail, the management of technical debt has become a critical challenge for organizations striving to maintain robust and scalable technology systems. Technical debt, the accumulated cost of prioritizing quick fixes or suboptimal solutions over more sustainable and efficient options, can significantly hinder an organization's ability to innovate, adapt, and grow. This paper explores the role of strategic leadership in effectively reducing technical debt within retail technology systems. By examining key leadership strategies, such as fostering a culture of continuous improvement, investing in long-term technology planning, and emphasizing cross-functional collaboration, the paper highlights how retail organizations can systematically address and mitigate technical debt. Strategic leadership in the retail sector involves a comprehensive understanding of both business and technological imperatives. Leaders must recognize the implications of technical debt not only in terms of immediate financial costs but also in the broader context of business agility, customer experience, and competitive advantage. The paper emphasizes the need for leaders to adopt a proactive approach, prioritizing technical debt reduction as a strategic objective that aligns with the organization's overall goals. One of the central arguments of the paper is that effective technical debt management requires a shift from reactive to proactive leadership. This involves anticipating potential issues, encouraging innovation, and making informed decisions that balance short-term gains with long-term sustainability. The paper discusses various leadership practices that contribute to this shift, including the implementation of robust governance frameworks, the adoption of agile methodologies, and the promotion of a learning-oriented organizational culture.

Reducing Technical Debt through Strategic Leadership in Retail Technology Systems

In the fast-paced and highly competitive landscape of retail, the management of technical debt has become a critical challenge for organizations striving to maintain robust and scalable technology systems. Technical debt, the accumulated cost of prioritizing quick fixes or suboptimal solutions over more sustainable and efficient options, can significantly hinder an organization's ability to innovate, adapt, and grow. This paper explores the role of strategic leadership in effectively reducing technical debt within retail technology systems. By examining key leadership strategies, such as fostering a culture of continuous improvement, investing in long-term technology planning, and emphasizing cross-functional collaboration, the paper highlights how retail organizations can systematically address and mitigate technical debt.Strategic leadership in the retail sector involves a comprehensive understanding of both business and technological imperatives. Leaders must recognize the implications of technical debt not only in terms of immediate financial costs but also in the broader context of business agility, customer experience, and competitive advantage. The paper emphasizes the need for leaders to adopt a proactive approach, prioritizing technical debt reduction as a strategic objective that aligns with the organization's overall goals.One of the central arguments of the paper is that effective technical debt management requires a shift from reactive to proactive leadership.

Business Strategy and Competitive Advantage Nexus Among Landscape Business in Beijing, China

Business Strategy and Competitive Advantage Nexus Among Landscape Business in Beijing, China

Service Quality as a Catalyst for Competitive Advantage and Business Performance in Hotel Industry: An Empirical Analysis by PLS-SEM Algorithm

This study investigates the vital role of service quality in the hotel industry, focusing on its impact on business performance and competitive advantages. Utilizing cross-sectional survey responses from hotel employees, we employed partial least squares structural equation modelling to analyze the relationships between service quality, competitive advantage, and business performance. Results highlight the pivotal role of quality in enhancing competitive advantages and operational efficiency in the hotel sector. The findings underscore the significant influence of service quality on both competitive advantage and overall business performance in the tourism service sector, leading to positive outcomes such as improved tourist experiences, economic growth, and an enhanced destination image. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of competitive advantage, service quality, and innovation in driving business performance, with direct implications for pricing strategies and service quality in the hotel industry.

Strategi Bisnis Sebagai Dasar Keunggulan Kompetitif Bagi Usaha Mikro di Kota Bandung : Peran Model Inovasi

Micro enterprises in Indonesia are known to have obstacles in innovating, even though innovation is one of the demands in today's modern industrial era. The involvement of innovation in business strategy can be a strength for micro enterprises to grow and develop. The purpose of this study is to determine the role of innovation models in mediating the relationship between business strategy and competitive advantage in micro-enterprises in Bandung City. The method used is descriptive analysis and verification with non-probability sampling techniques. Data processing uses the PLS-SEM model through SmartPLS 4.0 with 100 micro enterprises as respondents. The research findings state that business strategy has a significant effect on competitive advantage. In addition, it is known that process and product innovation mediate the influence of business strategy on competitive advantage, but only on differentiation strategy. Meanwhile, human resource innovation has no influence as a mediator. Therefore, micro enterprises that use differentiation strategy are advised to carry out process and product innovation to increase competitive advantage. However, micro-enterprises that implement cost-leadership strategy are recommended to focus on cost efficiency strategy.

A PURPOSE CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK TO EXAMINE THE CORRELATON OF LOGISTICS SERVICE QUALITY, LOGISTICS PERFORMANCE & COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE OF LOGISTICS SERVICE PROVIDERS IN THAILAND

The logistics service offers a crucial role in the process of developing into the worldwide market. Several nations must enhance their logistics service operations to achieve strong performance and attain a competitive edge in the market. Logistics service quality is a crucial element in Thailand's logistics operations. It is a major feature in developing a new conceptual model for logistics service performance, which is essential for achieving competitiveness in the logistics sector. The aim of this study is to investigate the relationship between the framework of logistics service quality, logistics performance and competitive advantage of logistics service provider (LSPs) firms in Thailand. This study utilizes primary data and applies a quantitative methodology, involving the collecting and analysis of research data using a strategy that emphasizes quantification. The sample will be LSPs companies in Thailand. The future data in this study will be analyzed using the statistical software packages SPSS and Smart PLS. Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) is a statistical method employed for data analysis, with the primary goal of enhancing the research model. Thus, the study presents a conceptual framework that suggests that enhancing service quality can improve the logistics performance and competitive advantage of the logistics service provider business in Thailand.

The Impact of Digital Transformation on the Competitive Advantage of Businesses: Case Study of Businesses Providing Logistic Services in HCMC, Vietnam

The Impact of Digital Transformation on the Competitive Advantage of Businesses: Case Study of Businesses Providing Logistic Services in HCMC, Vietnam

The impact of technology absorption capacity on competitive advantage in Vietnamese small and medium enterprises

This study examines the impact of technology absorption capacity on competitive advantage in Vietnamese small and medium enterprises. Technology absorptive capacity can help SMEs enhance their competitive advantage by improving customer interactions, optimizing business processes, encouraging innovation, expanding markets, and increasing transparency and trustworthiness. The study assessed the impact of technology absorptive capacity on SME’s competitive advantage. The research team conducted a questionnaire survey to assess the impact of technology absorption capacity on the competitive advantages of 300 Vietnamese small and medium-sized enterprises, specifically those engaged in digital transformation and the integration of technologies into their production and business activities. With the survey data collected, the study uses quantitative analysis methods, including steps to evaluate the reliability of variables in the model based on the Cronbach Alpha coefficient; Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirm Factor Analysis (CFA) are used to identify and confirm the factors and scales in the model, Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) is applied to determine the impact relationship between the factors and variables in the research model. The results show that technology absorption capacity has a strong impact on the innovation business model, strategic flexibility, and competitive advantage of the SME. Based on the results, the study has given some specific policy implications for the digital transformation process to enhance technological capacity through identifying and applying emerging technologies to current small and medium enterprises.

Optimizing Company Performance Through Effective Logistics Management

In the contemporary business environment, effective supply chain and logistics management are pivotal for minimizing costs, enhancing competitiveness, and optimizing operational efficiency. This study investigates the effects of key logistics practices—transportation, warehousing, packaging, inventory, and information management—on organizational performance. Leveraging a ‘Supply Chain Optimization’ dataset from Kaggle, the research analyzes how cost reductions across these logistics activities influence overall expenses and performance metrics. By categorizing Supply Chain Management (SCM) performance metrics into strategic, tactical, and operational levels, the study reveals how decisions at each level, from location strategy to daily inventory management, interact to impact overall effectiveness. The findings emphasize the critical role of optimizing logistics functions to boost business efficiency, customer satisfaction, and competitive advantage. The study provides actionable insights for logistics managers aiming to enhance performance through improved management practices in various Industries and organizations.

Digital Platforms as Enablers of MSMEs' Business Model Innovation: Revealing the Role of Capability Reconfigurations

This study aims to examine the impact of digital platforms on business model innovation within the MSME sector in Indonesia, addressing the contextual limitations found in previous study. Utilizing a comprehensive study design, this study investigates the roles of digital platform adoption, evolutionary capability reconfiguration, and substitutional capability reconfiguration in driving business model innovation. The study methods included hypothesis testing through partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) on data collected from MSMEs in Sleman, Yogyakarta. The results reveal that while digital platform adoption alone does not directly enhance business model innovation, it significantly influences capability reconfiguration. Specifically, substitutional reconfiguration plays a critical role in transforming business models by integrating new, more efficient capabilities. Conversely, evolutionary reconfiguration, despite being influenced by digital platforms, does not have an immediate significant impact on business model innovation. These findings contribute to the theoretical understanding of dynamic capabilities, highlighting the importance of substitutional reconfiguration for rapid and significant innovation. Practically, the study provides valuable insights for MSME owners and managers on leveraging digital platforms to enhance their value chains and drive business model innovation, ensuring sustainability and competitive advantage in the digital age.

Analysis of The Role of Operation Strategy to Create Competitive Advantage Using The SWOT Method at PT Bina Karunia Indonesia

A company needs a strategy, especially in the operational sector which is the heart of a company which has an impact on efficiency and also the quality of the services provided. Business consulting service companies often have operational problems that make it difficult for the company to have a competitive advantage over its competitors. This research aims to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats within the company and provide operational strategy solutions for business consulting companies. Data collection was obtained through interviews and questionnaires with the parties involved both internally and externally. The results of this research found that the company needed to develop an operational strategy because there were several problems and it was less efficient. So the researcher made an operational strategy plan based on the competitive advantage of business consulting companies in the city of Surabaya using SWOT analysis. This planning is expected to increase the company's competitiveness.

Navigating external knowledge sources: impacts on business model innovation and competitive advantage in start-ups

ABSTRACT Business model innovation (BMI) is considered a requirement for start-ups that source knowledge externally to counter resource constraints. We test the inter-relationships among two sources (research and support actors) of external knowledge (EKa), BMI, and competitive advantage (CA). We find that EK from research and support actors positively contributes to BMI, which positively affects CA. However, while EK from research actors has a positive relationship with CA, we find that EK from support actors has a negative direct effect on CA. This article thus highlights that not all EK helps start-ups in building a CA, thereby contributing to the literature on BMI, knowledge-based view, and entrepreneurial ecosystems in the specific context of start-ups. Practitioners can advance their understanding of the impact of different sources of EK (research and support actors) on start-ups. This paper advises start-up founders and managers to focus their resources on gaining knowledge from research actors.

Strategic management accounting and sustainable performance: The serial mediating role of business strategies and competitiveness

The objectives of this study were to 1) examine the impact of strategic management accounting (SMA) that influences business sustainability by integrating comprehensive internal information and external business environment to formulate strategic decision-making to enhance competitiveness, and 2) investigate the serial mediating role of business strategies and competitive advantages. Data were collected from a total of 168 samples of listed companies in the Stock Exchange of Thailand and analyzed by using partial least squares structural equation model. The results showed that strategic management accounting had a positive direct impact on innovation-oriented strategy, efficiency-oriented strategy, and sustainable performance. Innovation-oriented strategy and competitiveness was found to have serial mediating effect on strategic management accounting and performance sustainability. However, both efficiency-oriented strategy and competitiveness had no serial mediating effect on strategic management accounting and sustainable performance. The implications in this present study confirm that strategic management accounting plays a significant role in determining effective business strategies; therefore, executives need to focus on related resources to foster the strategic management accounting which in turn enhances the firm’s competitiveness and sustainable performance.

Knowledge Sharing Barriers in Bulgarian Companies – an Empirical Study

Knowledge sharing, although a key process for achieving business success and competitive advantage, does not always run smoothly. A number of factors, also called knowledge sharing barriers, hinder this process. They are extremely diverse and sometimes hard to find. The manifestation of knowledge sharing barriers is highly dependent on the context and in each organisation they manifest in a different way depending on the individual characteristics of the employees, the organisational structure and culture, the relevance and adequacy of the information and communication technologies used, etc. They cannot be completely overcome or eliminated, but their negative impact on knowledge sharing can be mitigated or minimised. The aim of the present study is to identify and rank knowledge sharing barriers in Bulgarian companies based on a literature review and conducting an empirical study. The research revealed three main barriers to knowledge sharing – lack of time, inadequate organisational culture and lack of trust. At the same time, some of the most frequently discussed barriers to knowledge sharing in the literature were not highly rated by respondents. The results of the research can serve business management as a guide in building a knowledge management system and an environment in which people will be able to freely share their knowledge.

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

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

Modeling and Resolving Uncertainty in DIKWP Model

The paper examines the various uncertainties encountered in high-frequency trading (HFT) environments and delves into the multiple challenges faced by HFT firms in navigating the Dodd–Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (referred to as the “Dodd–Frank Act”), particularly during the initial stages of its enactment. These challenges include the ambiguity surrounding the definition of HFT, the lack of clarity regarding regulatory requirements and boundaries, inconsistencies in enforcement resulting from deviations in understanding the content, and the absence of detailed descriptions of the Act’s provisions. These hurdles significantly impact not only the daily operations of HFT firms but also pose higher demands on their long-term strategic planning and risk management. Drawing upon the Data, Information, Knowledge, Wisdom, and Purpose (DIKWP) model, this study employs an innovative analytical framework. Through the comprehensive application of Cognitive Space, Concept Space, and Semantic Space, it provides a systematic methodology for identifying and analyzing the aforementioned issues. This approach not only aids firms in better comprehending and adhering to complex regulatory requirements but also enables them to explore new business opportunities and competitive advantages while ensuring compliance.