Competitive Advantage Research Articles

Environmental sustainability in stadiums: harnessing industry drivers and priorities for improved outcomes

PurposeThis paper aims to identify industry drivers and priorities that influence decision-making towards adopting environmentally sustainable (ES) features in stadiums. An “Environmentally Sustainable Stadium (ESS) Process Model” is proposed to track ES features throughout their life cycle, guiding planning, designing, construction, operation and management.Design/methodology/approachData were collected through 20 online semi-structured interviews with experts from sustainability, built environment, stadium management, mega-event planning and management and researchers. The experts’ project experiences spanned across Oceania, North America, South America, Asia and Europe. The data were recorded and transcribed through Teams and analysed using NVivo 11 application software.FindingsStadium’s ES features predominantly focus on energy, waste and materials management with some emphasis on carbon emission reductions and renewable energy sources. Emerging focus areas include flexible designs, audience (or fans) and community engagement, circular economy principles and integration with nature. Key drivers for adopting ES features include legislation and other sector-based requirements, competitive advantages and stakeholder pressures. ES feature success depends on owner support, budget, partnerships, expertise and opportunities. Major barriers include stakeholder diversity, infrastructure limitations and limited stadium-specific requirements.Practical implicationsThis paper proposes a six-step “ESS Process Model” to support the stadium industry to holistically integrate ES features, from the initial decision-making to the implementation, ongoing improvement and stakeholder engagement. The model helps stakeholders to identify opportunities, navigate challenges and achieve continual improvement.Originality/valueThe ESS process model is a novel approach to integrate ES features in stadiums, through enhancing collaboration among stakeholders and overcoming challenges in choosing, implementing and maintaining ES features.

Unlocking sustainable competitive advantage: The catalytic role of digital talent and knowledge workers in digital leadership in tourism and hospitality industry

The study aims to investigate the impact of digital leadership on sustainable competitive advantage, digital talent, and knowledge workers. Additionally, it explores the mediating role of digital talent (DT) and knowledge workers (KW) in the relationship between digital leadership (DL) and sustainable competitive advantage (SC), using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) as its theoretical foundation. The researchers employed Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) to examine survey data from 784 employees working in Egyptian travel agencies and tour operators. The results demonstrate that DL significantly enhances SC, DT, and KW. Moreover, DT and KW were shown to positively contribute to SC and serve as partial mediators in the relationship between DL and SC. The findings highlight the crucial role of developing DT and creating an environment that embraces technological acceptance and innovation. This approach amplifies the strategic effectiveness of DL, ultimately contributing to long-term organizational success.

A new business model (BM) for small independent retailers

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to advance understanding of the key elements of a new business model (BM) for independent retailers, which reflects their current competitive position within the retail ecosystem. It is a conceptual paper, drawing on theory and practical examples of strategy changes made by independent retailers during COVID-19. Design/methodology/approach This conceptual paper builds on existing research into retail BMs and independent retail strategies during COVID-19. It incorporates findings from a significant review of UK Independents’ performance during the pandemic, titled “Against All Odds, a Grimsey Review research paper (2021)”. It highlights changes in business format, activities and governance during the pandemic, alongside managers’ reflections on the impact of these changes on their businesses. This paper advances theory by adapting current conceptualisations of a retail business model with insights from value co-creation found in Service-Dominant logic (Vargo and Lusch 2008; Vargo et al., 2023). Findings This BM identifies a set of design principles and design elements/themes, which allows for a clearer delineation of the sources of competitive advantage for the sector moving forward. Design principles include the adoption of a hybrid format with resource configuration capturing co-creation activities and governance co-ordinated by institutions and institutional arrangements. Consumers lie at the heart of value co-creation. Design elements/themes need to be underpinned by value drivers including flexibility and agility, a dynamic IT capability and collaboration and community engagement. Originality/value This paper makes a two-fold contribution. Firstly, drawing on theory and practical examples of change made by business owners during the pandemic, the authors develop a new BM for independent retailers that captures key elements and relationships relevant to their competitive position in the sector. Secondly, the authors draw on the model to advance a set of propositions to be tested by further research to support a more stable and sustainable future for the sector.

Exploring Digital Fluency Skills Among the Business Organizations’ Workforce as A Competitive Advantage Tool: Quest for Sustainability

In advancing the sustainability agenda, it is imperative for business organizations to equip their workforce with digital fluency skills in today’s digital landscape. The objectives of this paper are: (1) to review the digital fluency skills among the companies’ workforce in terms of implementation and challenges; and (2) to explore the role of digital fluency skills as a competitive advantage tool in realizing Sustainable Development Goals using the Resource-based View Theory. This paper highlights several challenges relating to digital fluency skills among personnel in business organizations, including lack of ecosystem, readiness, and awareness. This is among the first papers that conceptualize the digital fluency skills of the workforce as an intangible resource. This paper also proposes a hierarchical model of the digital fluency skills of the workforce to the business, national, and sustainable development goals.

Системный подход к проблемам и задачам развития отраслевых комплексов в Арктическом регионе: аспекты региональной экономики

The article examines the issue of economic development of the Arctic region of Russia in modern conditions, with an emphasis on factors that reduce the competitiveness of industrial enterprises. The main goal of the work is to analyze the qualitative abilities and factors that reduce the competitiveness of industrial enterprises in these regions. The lack of an integrated approach in government strategies makes it difficult to create “support zones,” which in turn affects the competitive advantages of enterprises. Industrial corporations operating in the Arctic territories act as a link between the global economy and local production, which helps attract investment and develop the region.

Impact of Human Capital and Structural Capital on Competitive Advantage: Evidence from Indonesian Provincial Government Institutions

Purpose: This study investigates the influence of human capital, structural capital, and knowledge management on competitive advantage within the North Sulawesi Provincial Government, Indonesia. It aims to understand whether knowledge management mediates the relationship between human capital, structural capital, and competitive advantage in the context of public sector organizations. Theoretical Reference: The research is grounded in the Knowledge-Based View (KBV) theory, which postulates that knowledge is a critical resource for competitive advantage. It also explores the role of intellectual capital (human and structural capital) as sources of knowledge and their interplay with knowledge management. Method: A quantitative approach was utilized, involving 147 public officers from seven departments under the North Sulawesi Provincial Government. Data were collected through questionnaires and analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) via SmartPLS 3.0 software. Results and Conclusion: The findings indicate that: Human capital positively impacts competitive advantage. Structural capital does not directly influence competitive advantage but has a significant effect through the mediation of knowledge management. Knowledge management positively affects competitive advantage and mediates the relationship between structural capital and competitive advantage. However, it does not mediate the relationship between human capital and competitive advantage.These results highlight the critical role of knowledge management in leveraging structural capital for competitive advantage in public sector organizations. Implications of Research: Theoretical Implications: The study contributes to the literature on intellectual capital and competitive advantage in public sector contexts, providing novel insights into the mediating role of knowledge management. Practical Implications: Policymakers should focus on enhancing human capital, improving structural capital, and fostering effective knowledge management processes to boost the competitive advantage of public sector organizations. Originality/Value: This research addresses a gap in understanding competitive advantage within Indonesian public institutions by examining intangible resources and knowledge management. It provides a unique perspective on public sector competitiveness, particularly in the context of regional government institutions in North Sulawesi.

Challenges Faced by Corporate Management Accounting

With the rapid advancement of globalization and technological innovation, the field of corporate management accounting is facing unprecedented challenges. This paper delves into the primary difficulties encountered by management accounting in the current environment, including the impacts of technological advancements, the complexities of globalization, and increasingly stringent regulatory requirements. Through a detailed literature review and typical case studies, this research comprehensively analyzes the specific effects of these challenges on corporate operations and proposes practical solutions. These strategies include adopting advanced data analysis and automation tools to enhance the accuracy and timeliness of accounting information; strengthening the cultivation of cross-cultural management capabilities to ensure effective communication and decision-making in diverse cultural contexts; and establishing robust regulatory compliance monitoring systems to maintain compliance in a complex regulatory environment. This paper aims to provide theoretical and strategic references for corporate management accounting practices, helping businesses optimize their management accounting operations, improve decision-making quality and operational efficiency, and achieve sustainable development and competitive advantage.

Study on Stock Price Fluctuation of DHL after Cross-border Merger and Acquisition

In the 21st century, global logistics companies have launched a huge wave of mergers and acquisitions (M&A), including many international logistics giants launching crazy M&A to adapt to the expansion strategy of globalization. The cross-border logistics market is an extremely attractive cake in the logistics market, but the express delivery business in many low tier cities in many countries has long been dominated by many local enterprises, and its market has not been fully developed and does not meet international standards. The world has experienced five waves of M&A, and now this trend is affecting the development of DHL and has a significant impact on the evolution of the logistics industry. This article introduces the background of the topic selection, research objectives and significance, as well as the examination of whether M&A are necessary. This article uses the ARIMA-GARCH model to predict DHL's future stock price, and confirms the relationship and impact between its stock price and M&A behavior by comparing actual data. Based on the company's stock liquidity, the M&A effect is evaluated. The research results indicate that M&A can enable companies to quickly acquire the resources needed for development, generate synergies through integration, establish core competitiveness, and gain competitive advantages.

The Impact of Demand Forecasting Accuracy on Customer Satisfaction

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the impact of demand forecasting accuracy on customer satisfaction Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low-cost advantage as compared to field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Accurate demand forecasting significantly enhances customer satisfaction by reducing stockouts, improving delivery reliability, and aligning inventory with consumer needs. Advanced predictive models, such as AI and machine learning, enable businesses to adapt to market dynamics, fostering trust and loyalty. Studies show improved repeat purchase rates and customer retention, highlighting forecasting precision as crucial for competitive advantage. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Resource-Based View (RBV) Theory, Expectancy-Disconfirmation Theory (EDT) and Systems Theory in supply chain and management maybe used to anchor future studies on the impact of demand forecasting accuracy on customer satisfaction. Research should focus on developing integrative frameworks that combine demand forecasting accuracy with customer satisfaction metrics, emphasizing the role of advanced technologies like AI and machine learning. Companies should also invest in training programs to equip supply chain professionals with the skills to utilize advanced forecasting tools effectively. Governments and regulatory bodies should establish guidelines to encourage secure data sharing between supply chain stakeholders, enhancing forecasting accuracy

A Study on how to Secure Competitiveness through Case Analysis of Media and Contents using Generative AI

Due to the ChatGPT craze, all industries around the world have a hot Generative AI of interest. In particular, since Open AI announced AI Sora, which makes text into video on February 15, 2024, the media and content industries, both at home and abroad, have expressed expectations and a sense of crisis. By learning a large amount of Hyper-scale Data with artificial intelligence technology that actively generates results according to the specific needs of live Generative AI users, it is looking beyond the realm of creation, which can be called the human domain[1][2][3]. Although, unlike image-generating AI, the video live Generative AI service still has the limit of generating only short-length videos because it has to maintain temporal coherence. However, as live Generative AI developers supplement these problems and continue to offer advanced services, they will become the mainstream of live Generative AI in the media and content industries. Therefore, as of 2024, this study intends to present 3I(Inquiry-Inspection-Idea) as a strategy for competitive advantage in the media and content industries to respond to changes in the media and content industries that will be triggered by generative Generative AI along with ways to secure competitiveness through case analysis of generative Generative AI in the media and content industries[2].

Sustainability, circular economy, and projects: research opportunities

This editorial explores the intersection of sustainability, circular economy, and project management, highlighting its growing relevance in the contemporary context. Sustainability is deeply integrated into management modern practices, incorporating economic, social, and environmental dimensions. The circular economy, as an alternative to the traditional linear economic model, aims to reintegrate products and materials into the production live cycle, minimizing waste and maximizing resource use. Digital technologies such as IoT, AI, and blockchain provide new opportunities for implementing sustainable practices in real time, especially within the context of Industry 4.0. In project management, the incorporation of sustainability principles is crucial for ensuring long-term success. Frameworks such as the P5 Standard and PRiSM offer practical tools for integrating these concepts of sustainability into the daily routines of project professionals, promoting resource efficiency and social responsibility. The active engagement of stakeholders and the development of specific frameworks are essential for advancing project management that generates positive environmental and societal impacts. The editorial also highlights various research opportunities related to the integration of sustainability and the circular economy in project management. Research opportunities include understanding the impact of circular economy principles on project efficiency, stakeholder engagement in sustainable projects, and the development of frameworks aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By addressing these topics, researchers and organizations not only address environmental challenges but also gain a competitive advantage.

Presenting a Qualitative Model for the Implementation of Transformational Leadership in the Form of an Interactive Leadership Framework (Case Study: Hospitals in Zanjan Province)

Background: The method of choosing the leadership style of an organization is very important in the success of the organization in gaining a competitive advantage in society, and on the other hand, the method of managing and creating change and innovation is also considered necessary for the success of the organization as these factors dynamically affect each other. Some create obstacles on the way and some strengthen each other. Methods: The statistical population considered for this research in the qualitative part included participants, some of whom were academic professors, and some were managers of high managerial and organizational levels who were proficient in management topics in medical sciences hospitals. In terms of method, this research had a mixed approach. In other words, a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods was used. In data collection, in general, documentary studies and field method using MAXQDA software were used. Results: The results of the evaluation showed that the observed correlation between the examined components and the transformative leadership variable was completely significant. Therefore, it was concluded that the model examined in this research had a sufficient level of significance to be used as a guide to increase the transformation of the organization by relying on the role of interactive leadership in the hospitals of Zanjan province. Conclusion: One of the important and influential factors of an organization's success is how to apply management and effective leadership styles of managers of that organization. There are managers who can choose different styles in directing human resources. Their appropriate behavior patterns in any organization cause strong morale and motivation among employees, -and subsequently, increase the motivation of employees, their level of satisfaction and the level of productivity.

Influence of Supplier Relationship Management on Product Quality

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the influence of supplier relationship management on product quality. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low-cost advantage as compared to field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: effective Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) practices, such as performance monitoring, collaboration, and trust-building, significantly enhance product quality. These practices reduce defect rates, improve compliance, and boost customer satisfaction. Strong supplier relationships foster innovation, align quality objectives, and streamline processes, making SRM a critical enabler for achieving consistent quality standards and maintaining competitive advantage in dynamic markets. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Resource-Based View (RBV), Transaction Cost Economics (TCE) Theory and Stakeholder Theory in supply chain and management maybe used to anchor future studies influence of supplier relationship management on product quality. Theories should incorporate variables such as cultural, technological, and economic differences, providing a more globally relevant understanding of SRM's influence on product quality. Firms should adapt SRM practices to their industry-specific needs. For instance, green supply chains might prioritize sustainability metrics, while high-tech sectors may emphasize innovation partnerships. Policymakers should promote industry-wide standards for supplier evaluations and quality compliance to ensure consistency and accountability across supply chains

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Bali: Corporate social responsibility, competitive advantage and its impact on financial performance

Climate-related concerns have drastically made companies realize the need for better environmental regulations and consolidate them in corporate business strategies such as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). CSR improves firm performance by valuing the stakeholders' interests and substantially achieving a competitive advantage over competitors. Recognising a firm's competitive advantage in the market indicates performance and might help the company perform better. The objective of this research is to provide concrete proof related to how CSR affects competitive advantage and its effects on company performance, especially financial performance in SMEs in Bali Province. This study uses primary data in the form of questionnaires distributed to SMEs both directly and online. The sample of this research is the manager / owner of SMEs in Bali Province. Data analysis tools using SmartPLS 4.0. The study's findings indicate that CSR has a direct impact on financial performance (SMEs) and CSR indirectly affects the financial performance (SMEs) through competitive advantage. Competitive advantage was found to partially mediate the impact of CSR and financial performance (SMEs). These findings will be used by SME managers in Bali Province in order to enhance the company's financial performance by considering the use of CSR strategies and strengthening competitive advantage. Implementing CSR can help a company become more competitive and separate itself from competitors by providing an innovative product or service. Finally, corporate social responsibility (CSR) can give a company a competitive advantage by strengthening its marketing abilities, which leads to improved performance.

Invasive Amaranthus retroflexus obtains a competitive advantage over native A. tricolor under the addition of A. retroflexus leaf litter

AbstractThere is a scarcity of research examining the influences of the addition of leaf litter from invasive plants on their own growth performance, particularly in the context of their own competitive advantage when co‐cultured with native plants. This study aimed to examine the influences of the addition of a gradient of the invasive plant Amaranthus retroflexus L. leaf litter (ARLL) on its competitive advantage. An indoor planting experiment was conducted to analyze the competitive advantage of A. retroflexus with three forms of incubation conditions, that is, A. retroflexus in the monoculture, A. tricolor L. in the monoculture, and A. retroflexus co‐cultured with A. tricolor. The addition of a low amount of ARLL was found to significantly enhance the competitive ability to obtain sunlight of both Amaranthus plants. The leaf photosynthetic capacity of A. tricolor and the growth competitiveness of A. retroflexus were found to be greater in the co‐culture than in the monoculture. The competitive ability to obtain sunlight, the relative competitive intensity, and relative dominance of A. retroflexus were found to be stronger than those of A. tricolor regardless of the amount of ARLL and the form of incubation condition. Consequently, A. retroflexus can obtain a competitive advantage over A. tricolor under the addition of a gradient of ARLL. Accordingly, the stronger competitive advantage of A. retroflexus may facilitate its invasion process.

Data Cataloging as a Catalyst for Effective Data Governance and Improved Decision-Making

Data governance is a foundational component for organizations managing data as a strategic asset in today’s data- driven environments. Effective data governance ensures data quality, security, accessibility, and regulatory compliance, all of which are crucial for maintaining organizational integrity and competitive advantage. This paper explores how data cataloging, as a core tool within data governance frameworks, facilitates metadata management, data lineage tracking, and role-based access control (RBAC). We analyze the technical mechanisms through which data cataloging contributes to governance objectives, such as maintaining data quality and enabling regulatory compliance. Additionally, this study examines the impact of data cataloging on decision-making within organizations, highlighting improvements in decision accuracy, speed, and accountability. By drawing from examples in sectors such as finance and healthcare, this paper outlines the challenges associated with data cataloging implementation, including integration complexity and scalability issues. The paper concludes with future directions, focusing on artificial intelligence (AI)- enabled metadata tagging and cloud-native cataloging solutions, which promise to enhance data cataloging capabilities and make governance frameworks more agile and scalable. Keywords Data Governance, Data Cataloging, Metadata Management, Data Quality, Data Lineage, Role-Based Access Control (RBAC), Compliance, AI-Driven Cataloging, Cloud-Native Solutions, Data-Driven Decision-Making.

The Impact of Chip Technology Innovation on the Marketing Strategy of Consumer Electronics Products: A Case Study of Smartphones

Chip technology innovation has become the core driving force for the development of the smartphone industry, and its far-reaching impact on product performance optimization and marketing strategy transformation is particularly significant. This paper explores the theoretical connotation and development trend of chip technology innovation, and analyzes its key role in improving smartphone hardware performance, enhancing user experience and promoting market competition. In addition, through the case studies of two major brands, Apple and Huawei, it reveals the specific practice of the deep integration of chip technology and marketing strategy, including differentiated product positioning, technology-driven brand building and market promotion of innovative functions. The study shows that the breakthrough of chip technology not only gives smartphones significant technical advantages, but also provides strong support for brands to enhance market influence and user loyalty, thus enabling them to gain a competitive advantage in the rapidly changing consumer electronics market.

Exploring employee engagement in internal branding: a case study of commercial banks in Urban Masvingo

Efficient internal branding is essential for aligning employees with an organization's ideals, especially in service industries such as banking. This study examines the influence of employee engagement on the efficacy of internal branding activities in commercial banks located in Urban Masvingo, with the objective of understanding the impact of these initiatives on staff commitment and service quality. A quantitative survey design was utilised, focussing on management-level employees, shop floor personnel, and customers from certain banks, employing stratified random sampling to guarantee a varied participant pool. The results demonstrate that although the majority of internal branding efforts focus on frontline employees, there is a significant deficiency in engagement among shop floor personnel. The lack of established recognition procedures and allocated funding for internal branding undermines effectiveness. Strong managerial support and employee participation in branding activities were recognised as essential factors for improving engagement and alignment with brand values. To enhance internal branding, banks must to conduct frequent evaluations of employee engagement, incorporate branding into HR operations, establish formal recognition systems, and promote the co-creation of branding initiatives. These measures will foster a unified organisational culture and enhance service performance, hence augmenting brand equity in a competitive marketplace. This report provides actionable ideas for banks to enhance employee involvement in internal branding and sustain a competitive advantage in a fluctuating market..

Big Data and AI in Cloud Computing: The Ideal Partnership for Scalable Solutions

Artificial Intelligence (AI), Big Data, and Cloud Computing are coming together to drive huge changes in how businesses build scalable, flexible, and cost-efficient solutions. The paper identifies how these technologies work in unison to unlock real-time analysis of data and predictive insight, hence enabling better-informed decisions and operational effectiveness. Big Data analytics can process large data sets much faster with the help of vast computational power and storage facilities of cloud platforms, and AI algorithms extract intelligence from them. The combined framework empowers organizations to create better resource utilization, enhance customer experiences, and gain competitive advantages in dynamically changing markets. This research paper has also highlighted actual applications across various industries: how this transformational trio engenders innovation, scalability, and resilience. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Big Data, Cloud Computing, scalable solutions, Predictive Insights, real-time data analysis, Business Optimization, decision-making, Affordable Technologies, Operational Efficiency.

Knowledge management as a strategic resource for organizational development

Relevance. Transformation processes in the modern economic environment are characterized as highly dynamic with accelerating rates at both the micro and macro levels of economic systems. The speed of transformations is constantly growing, making competition increasingly tough and forcing business entities to adapt to new business conditions. In these conditions, the formation of a knowledge management system as continuous management of an organization can become a useful tool and a key to acquiring competitive advantages for an organization.The purpose of the work is to determine the role of knowledge management as an important resource and a key factor in the economic success of an organization, allowing it to adapt to new business conditions.Objectives: to reveal the essence of knowledge management in organizations; to highlight the main problems associated with the need to identify and manage the organization's knowledge.Methodology. The following methods were used to solve the research objectives: process-functional, methods of analysis and synthesis, the concept of management effectiveness - to improve the methodological approach to assessing knowledge management in an organization, identifying areas for increasing the effectiveness of using knowledge in business processes; theoretical generalization - to identify the types of enterprise knowledge.Results. Knowledge management in an organization is a way to make a profit and ensure competitiveness in the long term. The introduction of the knowledge management concept into the enterprise management process has a multifaceted applied significance, which lays the objective prerequisites for acquiring sustainable competitive advantages in market conditions. management.Conclusions. The role of knowledge management is substantiated based on the thesis "knowledge is the main resource of economic development in modern conditions", which made it possible to establish the need for the formation and effective implementation of intellectual capital (education, science, professional training, development of creativity, innovation). It is proven that the results of using the organization's knowledge are innovative products and technologies, strategic competence and competitive advantages in the market, new organizational models of cooperation, accumulation and transfer of experience.