Adoption Of Digital Technologies Research Articles

Can digital technology be affordable on industrial level? An exploration by integrating the sports and health industries.

While the significance of digital technologies like big data marketing is recognized in sport and health industries, the deployment is not in a fast pace as expected. Previous investigations argue that the financial issue can be the reason explaining such hesitation for sport and health firms to widely adopt advanced digital technologies. Through integrating firms in global sport and health industries, it is shown that the digital technology adoption can be negatively associated with firms' financial status. Therefore, the digital technologies are expensive, and the provision of sufficient financial incentives can be important to facilitate the promotion of digital technologies in sport and health industries.

The role of flexibility, digitalization, and crisis response strategy for SMEs: Case of COVID-19

ABSTRACT We explore the impact of COVID-19 on small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and examine how crisis management strategies, particularly related to flexibility and digitalization, have influenced their responses during and after the pandemic. In this regard, we investigate the relationships between strategic flexibility, digitalization, digital technology adoption, COVID-19 perception, and firm strategy after the pandemic by specifically incorporating the mediating role of the crisis response strategy. Based on a survey of 206 Turkish SMEs in manufacturing and service industries, our research employs structural equation modeling using Smart PLS. Our findings indicate that crisis response strategies play a significant role in shaping the firm strategy after COVID-19, mediating the impact of strategic flexibility, digitalization, digital technology adoption, and COVID-19 perception. The findings highlight the importance of crisis response strategies—including optimizing business models, developing marketing channels, investing in technological innovation, diversifying into new business areas, and integrating the supply chain—during the COVID-19 period. These strategies are crucial influencers in shaping the firm strategies of SMEs beyond the pandemic. In particular, SMEs demonstrate adaptation by reassessing and restructuring their product portfolios, expanding their presence in regional markets, and establishing strategic collaborations to thrive in the evolving business landscape.

The fourth industrial revolution and the agri-food labour market: a systematic literature review

Purpose The fourth industrial revolution (4IR) technological development has undeniably brought major challenges to the agricultural labour market, hampering the adoption of smart technologies in the sector. This study aims to explore a series of literature on the 4IR aspects surrounding agri-food research. In particular, this study will evaluate the challenges faced by the agri-food labour market in response to the emergence of 4IR and propose solutions to strengthen the agri-food sector in response to 4IR. Design/methodology/approach The preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses methodology was used to systematically screen, review and synthesize the literature on 4IR surrounding agri-food research. Findings While applying 4IR technologies spells opportunities for productivity growth and food security, the results revealed that these advanced technological innovations also create challenges to the agri-food sector labour market. Some identified challenges are financial constraints, lack of “Industry 4.0” knowledge and skills, lack of awareness and interest and inadequate government support. Correspondingly, to smoothen the transition to 4IR workplaces, the proposed solutions include offering relevant education and training, gaining access to government support and engaging in collaborative public-private partnerships. Originality/value Given the limited understanding of how technological applications can affect the agri-food sector, this study offers a more nuanced understanding of the gaps related to 4IR within the agri-food sector. By assessing the labour market challenges and addressing solutions for the adoption of digital technologies in agriculture, this study presents valuable insights into how relevant stakeholders in the agri-food sector should embrace Agriculture 4.0.

Digital technology adoption and radical and incremental innovations: evidence from the Chinese wind power industry

PurposeDigital technologies open up unprecedented opportunities for the Chinese wind power industry to make rapid and comprehensive decisions. However, the relationship between digital technology adoption and radical and incremental innovations has not been empirically assessed. In addition, reconfiguration capability is the ability of firms to transform and respond to changes. How such an organizational capability influences the effectiveness of digital technology adoption is a black box. In response, this study aims to assess the relationship between digital technology adoption and radical and incremental innovations in the Chinese wind power industry and elucidate the moderating role of reconfiguration capability.Design/methodology/approachBased on the data of listed companies in the Chinese wind power industry from 2006 to 2020, this study constructs regression models and validates the hypotheses.FindingsThe correlation between digital technology adoption and incremental innovation in the wind power industry in China is significantly positive, but the relationship between digital technology adoption and radical innovation is not significant. In addition, reconfiguration capability significantly enhances the incentive effect of digital technology adoption on incremental innovation.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the earliest to explore the heterogeneous relationships between digital technology adoption and radical and incremental innovations in emerging economies, advancing the theoretical insights into how digital transformation can foster different categories of technological innovations. Moreover, this study embeds dynamic capability theory into digital transformation research by exploring the boundary conditions for the effectiveness of digital technology adoption from the perspective of organizational dynamic capability, thereby expanding the boundaries of existing knowledge.

Recent Evidence on the Digitalization Process in Indonesia's Micro and Small Enterprises

The digital transformation process in micro and small enterprises (MSEs) in Indonesia is still a black box, and existing findings regarding digitalization in this business group are still very limited and fragmented. Considering the above background and the important contribution that MSEs can make to the economy and employment opportunities, as well as poverty alleviation in Indonesia, this paper aims to examine the current progress in the transition process from analog/conventional technology to digital technology (DT) in Indonesian MSEs based on the latest secondary data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), and primary data collected from online surveys. The finding suggests that although there has been progress in recent years, as demonstrated by the increasing number of MSEs using the internet, Indonesian MSEs still lag in the adoption of digital technology.

Can digital technology drive the integration of sports and health industries? Evidence from global businesses.

The integration in sports and health industries is attracting increasing research attention, however, there is less empirical evidence about role of digital technology adoption in affecting the industrial integration. This article extends relevant research from intra-state to including cross-board cases by combing data of merger and acquisition (M&A) in global sports and health industries as well as the country-level digital adoption index. It is shown that the integration in sports and health industries is positively associated with the digital technology adoption that the country in which the acquiror firm is located. Thus, it is beneficial for policymakers to promote the digital technology use when aiming to encourage the spontaneous industrial integration in sports and health industries.

Encouraging Digital Financial Technology Adoption during a Crisis: Experimental Evidence from Ghana

Encouraging Digital Financial Technology Adoption during a Crisis: Experimental Evidence from Ghana

Challenges and Development of the Insurance Market in Albania

The insurance market in Albania has experienced substantial changes in recent years. This analysis focuses on the structure and performance of the insurance market in Albania, including the main product categories such as compulsory and voluntary insurance. One of the main challenges for the insurance market in Albania is the low level of penetration compared to European standards. Public awareness and promotion of insurance culture are important factors in improving this aspect. The study also addresses legal changes and innovations in the market, including changes in the legal framework and insurance technology. This analysis is based on various sources, including the Financial Supervision Authority (FSA) reports, financial data of insurance companies, and insurance market trends. Understanding these aspects provides a complete overview of the developments and challenges of the insurance market in Albania and brings a basis for the discussion on the growth opportunities of this sector in the future. The methodology provides a structured approach to investigate the challenges and development of the insurance market in Albania in the post-pandemic period. By combining data from various sources, the study aims to produce a comprehensive analysis that can inform policy recommendations and strategic decisions for stakeholders in the Albanian insurance industry. The study revealed that the market demonstrated resilience despite initial disruptions, with a gradual recovery in premium volumes and a rebound in demand for various insurance products. The pandemic accelerated the adoption of digital technologies, leading to improved customer service, streamlined operations, and enhanced data management.

A critical investigation into identifying key focus areas for the implementation of blockchain applications in the mining industry

Digital information and data are crucial drivers of progress in various industries, including mining, where data-driven decision making optimizes resource extraction, enhances safety, and ensures sustainability. The adoption of digital technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things has amplified the importance of digital information. However, the integrity and security of this information are paramount, leading to the exploration of blockchain technology as a potential solution for secure digital value exchange in mining. This research examines blockchain's capabilities, drawing insights from its applications in sectors like banking, government, healthcare, and entertainment, and evaluates their relevance to mining's core value chain processes. The study identifies blockchain's distributed ledger technology, cryptographic security, and decentralization as unique advantages that can revolutionize mining by enhancing transaction speed, reducing costs, and improving supply chain transparency and compliance with sustainability standards. Blockchain's transparent and auditable records can enhance business transparency, fostering trust among stakeholders, including investors and regulatory bodies. The technology's consensus mechanisms and smart contracts further promote trust in collaborative ventures. This research provides a foundational understanding for decision-makers in the mining industry to evaluate blockchain's feasibility and potential return on investment, guiding strategic planning and resource allocation for blockchain applications. By leveraging blockchain, mining companies can optimize operations, improve sustainability practices, and establish a robust foundation for future growth, positioning blockchain as a transformative technology in the sector.

Digitalization and productivity in the Chinese wind power industry: the serial mediating role of reconfiguration capability and technological innovation

PurposeWind power is the most promising renewable energy source in China. The development of digital technologies has brought about unprecedented growth opportunities and prospects for wind power. However, the relationship between digital technology adoption and total factor productivity (TFP) in the wind power industry in China has not been empirically assessed. This study aims to clarify whether and how digital technology adoption affects the TFP of the wind power industry in China.Design/methodology/approachBased on the data of listed companies in the Chinese wind power industry from 2006 to 2021, this study proposes and verifies relevant hypotheses with two-way fixed effects regression models.FindingsThe empirical results indicate that digital technology adoption is the cornerstone of the TFP of China’s wind power industry. Reconfiguration capability and technological innovation serially mediate the above relationship. In addition, the incentive effect of digital technology adoption varies among wind power firms. The impact of digital technology adoption is more significant in firms that are old and located in economically undeveloped regions.Originality/valueThis study is one of the earliest attempts to investigate the relationship between digital technology adoption and TFP in the renewable energy sectors of emerging economies. By integrating dynamic capability theory and the analytical framework of “Capability-Behavior-Performance” into the digital context, this study offers the theoretical insights into how digital technology adoption can enhance organizational reconfiguration capability, thereby stimulating technological innovation and subsequent TFP. Additionally, the impacts of different digital technologies are estimated in entirety, rather than in isolation.

Using Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to Explain Teachers' Adoption of Digital Technology in Business Education

The use of technology eases and makes teaching learning process effective and efficient. Thus far, researches on technology acceptance in higher education has been widely conducted; however, only few has focused on vocational high school teachers, especially in the field of business. This survey research aims to analyze the influences of technology acceptance variables: Perceived of usefulness (PU) and Perceived of Ease of Use (PEU) towards two other acceptance variables: among vocational high school (SMK) teachers in the Business and Management field in Surakarta. The population of this research was all vocational high school teachers in the Business and Management field in Surakarta. At the end of the research, there were 172 responses obtained from the teachers involved. Partial Least Squares (PLS) on Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) was used to test the research hypotheses. The empirical findings show that there are significant influences; particularly on PEU and PU, as well as PEU and PU on BI. Furthermore, BI is also proven to have a significant influence on AU. The findings are expected to provide deeper insights into the factors influencing technology adoption by teachers in business education. Moreover, the implication is foreseen to contribute on the development of more effective and efficient business education through the use of digital technology.

Digital technology adoption and institutionalization in Thai maritime industry: An exploratory study of the Thai shipowners

This exploratory study delves into the factors influencing digital technology adoption and the dynamics of its institutionalization within the Thai maritime industry, a key sector underpinning Thailand's economic expansion. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with executive leaders from seven Thai shipowners, utilizing a snowball sampling method. The study reveals that digital technology adoption is driven by a complex interplay of factors including reliable IT infrastructure, perceived technological benefits, organizational culture, top management support, IT skills and support, legal, regulatory, and policy requirements, social pressure influence, and varying degrees of government support. Additionally, the institutionalization of such technologies within the maritime sector is heavily reliant on well-defined organizational rules and the establishment of trust in technological advancements. These findings not only enrich the theoretical landscape regarding digital adoption but also offer practical insights for industry stakeholders, paving the way for more nuanced interventions and policy formulations aimed at enhancing digital integration in this traditionally conservative sector.

Digital Economy and Its Impact on Sustainable Business Practices: An Analytical Study in the Chinese Context

This research investigates integrating the digital economy with sustainable business practices in China, focusing on the dynamic nature of digital technology adoption and environmental sustainability within Chinese enterprises. The study aims to recommend effective strategies for enhancing sustainable innovation through digitalization, providing guidance for policymakers, corporate leaders, and managers. By selecting a sample of firms from 2008 to 2022, including data from companies listed on the stock exchange and detailed patent information, the study employs zero-inflated negative binomial regression to address the peculiarities of patent counts accurately. This method avoids the assumptions of linearity of dependent variables and normality of residuals common in many empirical innovation studies. The research confirms a positive relationship between digital adoption and green patents. Notably, there is a significant reduction in environmental outputs from firms operating in China’s 'Big Data Comprehensive Pilot Zone,' supporting the argument that policies promoting green innovation are effective. Additionally, the study identifies several key factors influencing the successful implementation of digital technologies and sustainability, including firm size, industry nature, and regional economic characteristics. These findings are crucial for policymakers and managers, emphasizing the importance of digitalization in achieving sustainability goals.

Engineering Systems with Standards and Digital Models: Development of a 15288-SysML Grid

The paradigm shift that has spurred the fourth industrial revolution, in what is termed Industry 4.0, has ushered in the need to adopt digital technologies throughout the worldwide industrial base to support system design efforts. The adoption of digital technologies with a digital enterprise and the creation of cyber–physical systems are central tenets of Industry 4.0 and directly support profitable business models, improvements in efficiency, and ensure durable quality for the modern industrial base. However, the techniques for engineering systems require new, improved, digital life cycle process models if Industry 4.0—and the goals for its integrated systems—are to be realized. The development of a technique that improves the life cycles for systems within the digital enterprise is required. The 15288-SysML Grid described herein supports the Industry 4.0 paradigm and its associated digital enterprise. This is accomplished through (1) the application of a modern life cycle process model (i.e., the adapted diamond); (2) the utilization of international standards for systems; and (3) the adoption of the four fundamental aspects of system design supported by model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and the systems modeling language (SysML).

DIGITALIZATION A NECESSITY FOR SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS

Digitization, with its profound impact on business, manifests itself in increased efficiency, innovation and competitiveness. This transformation process requires comprehensive readiness assessments and improvement plans. Digitization is essential in driving value creation, operational efficiency and driving innovation, thereby shaping sustainable business practices. The adoption of digital technologies is essential for strengthening economic performance, mitigating the impact on the environment and promoting societal sustainability goals. This research proposes to analyse the ramifications of digitization in the field of sustainable business. Its main objective is to analyse how digital technologies have influenced and shaped businesses that adopt economic, social and environmental sustainability. To achieve this objective, a methodological review, based on academic research articles, was undertaken to elucidate how the conceptualization of digitization as a catalyst for changing sustainable business paradigms has evolved. This effort involved delineating digital technologies, discerning prevailing trends, and identifying best practices to drive sustainability goals within business operations. In addition, the review encapsulated the challenges and risks inherent in digitization in relation to sustainable business, encompassing concerns such as cyber security, regulatory compliance and ethical considerations. Finally, the research provided a forecast of the digital trajectory of sustainable business, highlighting emerging trends and potential development trajectories. The research findings underscore the imperative for sustainable businesses to adopt a strategic and meticulously planned approach. This involves investing in robust cyber security measures, upskilling the workforce in digital skills, conscientiously assessing the environmental footprint of technology and formulating robust ethical frameworks. By deftly navigating these challenges, businesses can optimize the dividends of digitization while maintaining their commitment to sustainability. While certain sustainable solutions may demonstrate effectiveness on a smaller scale, their scalability is essential to making a substantial impact on sustainability goals. Addressing the scalability issue requires concerted efforts by government bodies, businesses, communities and individuals, augmented by investments in education, technology and research. These innovative efforts hold promise for addressing global challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss and socio-economic disparities, while fostering economic prosperity and societal well-being. As businesses delve deeper into the realms of digitization, the concomitant risks associated with data security and privacy escalate proportionately. Therefore, adopting strict cyber security protocols becomes of paramount importance. In conclusion, the digital frontier of sustainable business presents fertile ground for innovation and expansion. Combining digital talent with sustainability imperatives can generate business models that not only thrive economically, but also contribute significantly to social well-being and environmental conservation

Digital technologies meet soft laddering: A critical reflective perspective

This study contributes to the academic discourse on the evolution of virtual qualitative enquiries in the wake of the accelerated adoption of digital technology following the COVID-19 pandemic. Employing a critical-reflection approach, this study explored the experiences of investigators who conducted 150 soft laddering interviews, either online or face-to-face. The research provides a theoretical reflection on online soft laddering and its application with new technological tools, such as video conferencing and social media, demonstrating how these tools mitigate logistical and relational limitations while enhancing data collection scope and reach. The findings indicate that technological advancements are fostering a gradual hybridisation of digital and physical methods, particularly those utilising synchronous interviews. As the physical and digital realms converge, this trend leads to the phygitalisation of qualitative research.

Enhancing Manufacturing Excellence with Digital-Twin-Enabled Operational Monitoring and Intelligent Scheduling

This research examines the potential of digital twin (DT) technology for reformation within China’s traditional solid-wood-panel processing industry, which currently suffers from production inefficiencies and the slow adoption of digital technology. The research centers around developing a digital twin system, elucidating improvements in manufacturing efficiency, waste management, process simulation, and real-time monitoring. These capabilities facilitate immediate problem solving and offer transparency in the process. The digital twin system is comprised of physical, transport, virtual, and application layers, employing a MySQL database and using the Open Platform Communications Unified Architecture (OPC UA) protocol for communication. The application of this system has led to heightened production efficiency and better material use in the solid-wood-panel manufacturing line. Integrating the dynamic selection adaptive genetic algorithm (DSAGA) into the virtual layer drives the system’s efficiency forward. This evolved approach has allowed for an enhancement of 8.93% in the scheduling efficiency of DSAGA compared to traditional genetic algorithms (GAs), thereby contributing to increased system productivity. Real-time mapping and an advanced simulation interface have strengthened the system’s monitoring aspect. These additions enrich data visualization, leading to better comprehension and a holistic process view. This research has ignited improvements in solid-wood-panel production, illustrating the tangible benefits and representing progress in incorporating digital technology into traditional industries. This research sets a path for transforming these industries into smart manufacturing by effectively bridging the gap between physical production and digital monitoring. Furthermore, the adjustability of this approach extends beyond solid-wood-panel production, indicating the capability to expedite movement towards intelligent production in various other manufacturing sectors.

SME digital transformation and the COVID-19 pandemic: a case study of a hard-hit metropolitan area

Abstract Cities and regions are facing diverse challenges, and the transformation to a digital economy is a core issue. The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has had widespread impacts on business, and it has heightened the need for digitalization. We analyse if and to what degree the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the digital transformation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the metropolitan region of Madrid. Our research strategy is based on a quantitative analysis of survey data at the company level. Our results show that a large share of SMEs invested in digital technologies as a response to the pandemic, but there are also important differences between basic and more advanced digital technologies and between manufacturing and service sector firms. SMEs’ previous knowledge and technological resources and capabilities, as well as their collaboration networks with providers are found to trigger adoption of digital technology. Implications for postpandemic policies are highlighted.

Barriers and Enablers of Nurses' Adoption of Digital Health Technology to Facilitate Healthcare Delivery in Resource-Limited Settings.

The study investigated barriers and enablers of nurse's adoption of digital health technology to facilitate the delivery of healthcare in resource-limited settings. Using a self-administered questionnaire, data were collected from ninety-three nurses. Descriptive statistics were conducted to analyse and summarise the data. The study found that barriers to digital technology use included workload, time constraints, limited access to computers and a lack of skills in searching for information, while positive attitudes and confidence were enabling factors. Providing access to technology and skills training will improve the adoption of technology in healthcare delivery by nurses.

A critical review of global best practices elements in digital technologies: Advancing a theoretical architecture for quality engineering

Technological advancements and changes in local, regional, and global markets have prompted organizations operating in the quality assurance environments to develop competitive strategies that enhance operational excellence and business sustainability. The current global norm is digital technologies as a key enabler of competitive strategies. The ability to develop and integrate digital into quality assurance environments is a challenge with considerable focus on the development of a theoretical architecture.This study aims at identifying elements influencing the adoption of digital technologies, through a review of global best practices applicable to the integration of digital technologies in quality assurance environments. This study further aims at the consolidation of all elements into the development of an contemporary theoretical architecture specific to the quality assurance environment.This qualitative study utilised a systematic literature review (SLR) of papers published from 2012 to 2022 to assess the elements influencing the adoption of digital technologies and global best practices in quality assurance environments. In addition, to ensure that the most relevant theoretical architecture was developed in this study, a Resource-Based View, together with Dynamic Capabilities theory, and Technology Acceptance Modelling are adopted to ground the study.Key elements influencing the adoption of integrated digital technologies are identified from the results obtained from the SLR. Furthermore, the SLR identifies several theoretical frameworks that combine business sustainability and quality assurance environments principles, with Digital Technologies. Based on the review outcome, a theoretical architecture is developed for adoption in a quality assurance environment for organizations operating in the service sector.This study provides a new perspective on the elements influencing the adoption of integrated digital technologies in a quality assurance environment advancing business sustainability. Further this study also exhumes the Implications with regards to a theoretical architecture for quality assurance organizations that seek to adopt integrated digital technologies and operate within a service.