Digital Initiatives Research Articles (Page 1)

India’s indigenous economic practices, policies and novel, frugal innovations are fine testaments to its Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs). Contributing around 30% of the national GDP, they act as a cornerstone of the Indian economy. However, driven mainly by conventional methodologies, integrating sustainability into operations has been a far cry. In the digital era, aligning sustainability with digital transformation—termed ‘digital sustainability’—requires new organisational capabilities. This study explores how Indian SMEs can develop digital sustainability capabilities (DSCs), drawing on the resource-based view and dynamic capabilities theory. With a blend of methodological approaches, including a survey of more than 300 SMEs and interviews with 25 SME leaders across sectors, this research identifies the enablers, barriers and impact of digital sustainability initiatives on firm performance. Findings show that strategic alignment, digital leadership and ecosystem engagement are key to developing DSCs.

Like to most Kenyan sub-counties, the economy of Kitui County is supported by small and medium-sized enterprises that also contribute greatly to employment in the country and gross domestic product. However, most of the businesses are faced with challenges such as slow usage of technology that inhibits their capacity to grow and compete. The paper set out to discuss the adoption and growth of small and medium enterprises in the context of technology in Kitui County. Three theories were used to support the research: diffusion of innovations, technology acceptance model (TAM) and resource-based view. A descriptive study was adopted to target 4,088 SME owners across different industries. A stratified random sampling process was applied to get a sample size of 365 SMEs. Data collection was done using semi-structured questionnaires that were aimed at quantitative data. The results were presented in tables and charts. The study proved valuable in offering SME owners and entrepreneurs, insights into how various technological tools such as internet access, mobile money services, digital marketing strategies, and business management software could be leveraged to promote business growth. This information enabled them to make more informed decisions about technology investments, ultimately enhancing their operations and competitive positioning in the market. The study revealed a strong positive Pearson correlation between internet availability and SME development, indicating that improved internet access significantly supported the growth of small and medium enterprises. A statistically significant positive relationship was found between internet access and SME growth indicating that improved connectivity supports enterprise development. Mobile money services also showed a strong positive correlation with SME expansion, with regression analysis confirming a significant effect. Digital marketing strategies demonstrated a similarly strong positive correlation with SME growth, with regression results highlighting them as the most impactful factor. Additionally, the use of business management software was significantly associated with SME development, emphasizing its value in enhancing operational efficiency. Based on these findings, the study recommended several strategic actions. Government agencies and private internet providers should enhance internet infrastructure to improve connectivity. Financial institutions and mobile service providers were encouraged to strengthen mobile money platforms and promote inclusive adoption. Furthermore, marketing consultants and business development entities should offer training on effective digital marketing techniques. Lastly, SME support programs should integrate digital literacy initiatives and training on business management software to empower entrepreneurs with tools for informed decision-making and efficient planning. These measures are expected to drive sustainable growth and competitiveness among SMEs in the region.

For rural youth, seeking mental health care often carries high stakes: in tight-knit communities where ‘everyone knows everyone,’ privacy is limited, and delays in mental health support can allow manageable symptoms to escalate into crises. Telepsychiatry provides confidential, flexible, and timely access, enabling youth to seek help early and receive support without delay. This perspective synthesizes current evidence on telepsychiatry’s benefits and challenges and highlights opportunities for growth through hybrid care models, policy reforms pertaining to payment parity and credentialing by proxy for provider licensing, digital equity initiatives, and community-based approaches for building literacy and trust, ensuring that all youth including neurodivergent persons from rural, inner-city, and low-income communities can access effective, urgent, and private mental health care.

ABSTRACT Administrative burdens vary significantly across agencies and communities, and digital government initiatives are proposed as potential solutions to reduce administrative burdens. However, disadvantaged groups, particularly seniors, face multifaceted challenges that digital technologies alone cannot fully resolve. This research, based on in‐depth interviews and grounded theory analyses, examines how frontline bureaucrats, citizens, and digital tools collectively contribute to administrative burdens. We use the case of the Old Age Allowance Policy (OAAP), which was introduced by the Chinese government to address the increasing demands of the rapidly aging population. We develop a theoretical framework conceptualizing administrative burdens as perverse effects of digital transformation, shaped by intricate interactions among citizens' conditions, bureaucratic discretion, and technological limitations. In response to these challenges, our study highlights the crucial role of the government in fostering a supportive environment that enables citizens to adapt effectively to digital transformation.

The rapid evolution of digital technologies has catalyzed the emergence of novel monetary instruments, notably Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) and stablecoins, which are reshaping the global financial landscape. This report examines the definitions, classifications, and distinguishing features of CBDCs and stablecoins, with a particular focus on their development and adoption across selected Asian economies. It explores the motivations driving central banks and private entities to pursue digital currency initiatives, analyzes the regulatory frameworks governing stablecoins, and evaluates broader policy implications. These include impacts on monetary policy, financial stability, capital flow management, financial inclusion, consumer protection, privacy, and financial literacy. The report also emphasizes the importance of stakeholder engagement and concludes with strategic recommendations to support the secure and inclusive integration of digital currencies into the financial ecosystem.

A Multi-state Digital Initiative in India Aimed at Improving Primary Mental Healthcare Through Planning, Execution, and Gathering Insights

ABSTRACT In response to growing pressures for environmental sustainability and technological advancement, this study examines how firms can effectively integrate green and digital innovations within ambidextrous strategies to enhance performance. Using fuzzy‐set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) on a sample of 175 German manufacturing and service firms, the study identifies configurations that balance exploration and exploitation with digital and green innovation initiatives in different operational contexts. The findings emphasize that success hinges not on isolated elements but on their strategic integration into a coherent innovation framework. High‐performing firms in dynamic environments emphasize digital innovation, while those in stable settings prioritize green innovation, and both require alignment with the firm's underlying innovation strategy. However, success depends on firm‐specific factors: Smaller firms benefit from specialized innovation strategies, while large firms, particularly manufacturing firms, achieve resilience by combining green and digital innovation. Service firms gain competitive advantage by adapting their innovation focus to environmental shifts. The study demonstrates that innovation effectiveness results from context‐specific, integrated approaches rather than one‐size‐fits‐all strategies.

The transformation of traditional Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) in peripheral areas such as Aceh Singkil reflects an adaptive response to the demands of Islamic education modernization, social challenges, and the need to integrate Islamic values within contemporary society. Pesantren are no longer merely centers for classical religious transmission; they have evolved into dynamic institutions capable of educational, social, and religious innovation. This study explores the transformation strategies implemented by three prominent pesantren in Aceh Singkil Dayah Babussalam, Darul Muta’alimin, and Darul Hasanah focusing on the integration of educational, social, and religious dimensions. This research employed a qualitative case study approach with data collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and documentation. The analytical framework used was Talcott Parsons' AGIL model (Adaptation, Goal Attainment, Integration, Latency). The findings reveal that each pesantren pursued distinct innovations: curriculum integration, digital learning initiatives, alumni involvement in institutional reform, and the promotion of Islamic moderation through leadership and community outreach. These institutions have successfully built integrative models rooted in traditional values while remaining responsive to contemporary demands. The transformation observed is evolutionary, collaborative, and centrally led by kyai figures who serve both as preservers of tradition and agents of change. This study contributes to the discourse on adaptive Islamic education models that retain salafiyah authenticity while meeting global educational challenges.

The rapid advancement of digital technologies has significantly reshaped the landscape of human resource development (HRD) in Malaysia. Despite increased digital adoption across sectors, many organizations continue to face challenges in aligning workforce competencies with digital transformation initiatives. This concept paper addresses the gap by exploring current trends, challenges, and strategic approaches in digitalizing HRD practices within the Malaysian context. The primary objective is to examine how digital tools and platforms are conceptually integrated into core HRD functions, such as training, performance management, and talent development, and to evaluate their theoretical effectiveness in enhancing organizational capabilities. Adopting a concept paper methodology, this study relies on an extensive review and synthesis of existing literature, policy documents, and recent industry reports related to HRD and digital transformation. Through theoretical analysis, the article outlines a strategic framework for digital HRD implementation, identifies critical success factors, and discusses conceptual barriers such as digital skill gaps, resistance to change, and disparities in digital infrastructure across organizations. The article contributes to the field by proposing a holistic framework for digital HRD strategy formulation and implementation. It provides actionable insights and policy considerations for HR leaders, educators, and government agencies to strengthen Malaysia’s readiness for a digitally driven economy.

Vaccine-preventable diseases remain a global threat to public health, and despite the proven effectiveness of vaccines in protecting against these diseases, some people still avoid vaccinations for themselves or their children. Since barriers to protective health behaviors are diverse, overcoming them, and thereby reducing immunization gaps, necessitates diverse strategies. One such approach is to leverage health education through digital formats like online platforms and game-based learning, which can be implemented across geographical borders. We report a large-scale test of the World Health Organization’s Immune Patrol, a game-based middle school curriculum on vaccines and immunization. Using a matched quasi-experimental trial, classes in Armenia and the Republic of Moldova were exposed to local language versions of either five fully game-based lessons on topics including immunization, preventable diseases and digital source criticism, or non-game control materials on the same topics matching the digital and physical activities, without overt game elements. Significant learning outcomes were found across both countries, yet with differing gains among the classes within each country. Students assigned to game-based learning were slightly more motivated to learn about vaccine-preventable diseases, and to actively protect people around them through vaccination following the Immune Patrol experience. Qualitative observations highlight how practical and cultural differences can challenge homogenous implementation of learning packages like Immune Patrol across borders, but also how technology-enhanced collaborative classwork is welcomed in different ways across disparate classrooms. Results support the feasibility of global deployment of digital health education, but underscore the need for local support, and sensitivity to variations in culture, resources, teaching approaches and national education systems, when digital education initiatives like WHO’s Immune Patrol are set to transcend global borders.

Abstract Digital transformation presents a crucial strategic imperative for family businesses seeking to maintain competitiveness and long-term viability. The academic literature reveals divergent perspectives on how family businesses approach digital transformation initiatives. This study adopts a socioemotional wealth perspective to examine the relationship between family ownership and digital transformation. The research specifically investigates how family formal business networks and next-generation dispersion moderate this relationship. Analysis of panel data from Chinese listed family firms between 2016 and 2020 reveals that family ownership negatively influences digital transformation efforts. However, this negative effect diminishes when family firms participate in formal business networks or involve multiple next-generation members in leadership positions. These findings yield important theoretical contributions regarding the intricate relationships between family dynamics and technological advancement. The research also provides practical insights for family business leaders navigating digital transformation challenges. This study advances understanding of how different dimensions of socioemotional wealth shape family firms’ strategic responses to technological change.

The insurance industry is undergoing unprecedented digital transformation, driven by evolving customer expectations, regulatory pressures, and competitive dynamics. This research examines the strategic integration of product development methodologies, core suite platforms, and artificial intelligence solutions to construct a comprehensive digital infrastructure for modern insurance operations. Through analysis of market data, vendor performance metrics, and implementation case studies from 2024-2025, this study reveals that successful digital transformation initiatives can achieve operational cost reductions of up to 48%, processing time improvements exceeding 80%, and revenue enhancements of 25% within five years of implementation. The convergence of cloud-native core platforms, AI-driven automation, and customer-centric product strategies represents a fundamental shift from legacy operational models toward agile, data-driven insurance ecosystems. Current market analysis indicates that while 87% of insurers plan AI adoption by 2024, only 7% have successfully implemented these technologies at scale, highlighting significant opportunities for competitive differentiation through comprehensive digital core architectures.

This study explores the role of the popular radio program ‘Mann Ki Baat’, hosted by the Prime Minister of India, in promoting the development and empowerment of tribal communities across the country. The program has become a vital medium of mass communication, reaching remote areas where other forms of media often fail. It plays a unique role in addressing the concerns of marginalized groups, including tribal populations, by highlighting their culture, success stories, and developmental challenges. Through regular episodes, ‘Mann Ki Baat’ shares information about health care, education, digital literacy, environmental protection, and employment opportunities relevant to tribal communities. One of the key strengths of the program is its ability to connect emotionally with the listeners using simple language and relatable stories. By featuring tribal achievers and their contributions to society, the program not only inspires individuals but also promotes pride in tribal identity. It encourages listeners to participate in government schemes such as Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Skill India, and digital inclusion initiatives. These messages create awareness, increase civic engagement, and build confidence among tribal people to actively contribute to their own community's progress. Overall, ‘Mann Ki Baat’ serves as an effective tool for bridging the communication gap between the government and tribal communities. It strengthens the relationship between citizens and the state, promotes inclusive development, and motivates tribal populations towards self-reliance and sustainable growth.

Facing many challenges and the pressure to achieve sustainable development through digitalization, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) should increase their consumption of digital technologies. SMEs are part of the engine of emerging economies, making a significant contribution to economic development. Using Rossmann’s Digital Transformation Maturity Index and a survey-based dataset, the purpose of this paper is to uncover key associations between different dimensions that define digital transformation. Through association rules mining (ARM), our results show that even when resources are constrained, SMEs in central Romania—Transylvania—make efforts to increase human resources competencies to drive digital transformation. Furthermore, we identified that the firms are in a transition stage in terms of digital transformation. Thus, although digital initiatives are considered at the firm level, they are not fully integrated into leadership and human resources.

Market service retribution, particularly from the market sector, is one of the strategic sources of Local Own-Source Revenue (PAD) in supporting regional development financing. However, in Tapin Regency, the management of market retribution receivables still faces various challenges, particularly related to a suboptimal administrative system. This study aims to analyze the influence of the administrative system on the effectiveness of market retribution collection and its contribution to increasing PAD in Tapin Regency. The research uses a qualitative descriptive approach, with data collected through in depth interviews with stakeholders at the Department of Trade and the Market Technical Implementation Unit (UPT Pasar). The findings indicate that limitations in the number of collectors, suboptimal distribution of retribution bills (SKRD), and the continued use of manual systems in billing and record keeping are major obstacles in retribution management. Additionally, disorganized archiving and the lack of an integrated digital system reduce the effectiveness of monitoring and accountability. Despite ongoing reform efforts through human resource development and digital application initiatives, implementation still requires careful planning and strong policy support. The study concludes that a well structured administrative system significantly influences the effectiveness of retribution collection and the realization of PAD from the market sector. Recommendations include accelerating the digitalization of the retribution system, increasing the number of collection personnel, and formulating comprehensive technical regulations for retribution implementation.

Abstract This study examines the colocation patterns of coworking spaces (CWSs) and knowledge‐intensive services (KIS) in Bavaria, Germany. Using K‐density functions, the findings reveal that urban areas foster CWS development through economic diversity and interdisciplinary knowledge environments. Tailored regional policies, including incentives for operators, investments in digital infrastructure and initiatives to attract digital nomads, are recommended to promote CWSs in urban and non‐urban areas. These insights emphasise the role of CWSs in driving innovation, economic resilience and sustainable work practices, providing valuable guidance for policymakers and stakeholders in diverse regional settings.

Substance use disorder education via digital outreach: An evaluation of program dissemination and implementation.

This study aims to examine the relationship between self-regulation and online game addiction among students of MAN in Bukittinggi City. The increasing intensity of online gaming among adolescents has raised concerns regarding their academic achievement and social behavior. This research employed a quantitative approach with a descriptive correlational method. The participants were 11th-grade students selected through purposive sampling. The instruments used included a self-regulation scale based on Zimmerman’s theory (2000) and an online game addiction scale based on Young’s theory (2010). Data analysis using a simple linear correlation test revealed a positive and significant relationship between self-regulation and online game addiction (r = 0.292; p = 0.026). The coefficient of determination of 8.5% indicates that self-regulation contributes minimally to online game addiction. These findings suggest that students with higher self-regulation are better able to manage their gaming time, whereas those with lower self-regulation tend to be more addictive. This study is expected to serve as a reference for schools and parents in fostering students’ self-regulation skills through guidance and digital literacy initiatives.

What digital competencies should medical students in China possess in the AI era?

Unraveling the multidimensional association of covert bullying, abandonment, and adolescent depression: A critical review and conceptual framework.