Perspective Of Employees Research Articles

Exploring Management Practices in the Hospitality Industry: A Comprehensive Employee Perspective

This study explores management practices within the hospitality industry from the perspective of employees, focusing on various aspects of management effectiveness and employee engagement. A questionnaire survey was conducted among employees from different hospitality establishments, revealing a significant gender disparity in representation, with 75.4% male and 26.6% female respondents. Key findings indicate a strong consensus among participants regarding the importance of quality management practices, with a majority supporting new management styles aimed at enhancing quality across departments. Senior executives were generally perceived as effective communicators of company policies, with 53% of respondents expressing agreement on this matter. Furthermore, a notable percentage (76.1%) of employees acknowledged the responsibility of top management in ensuring quality performance. Leadership capability among managers was deemed essential, with 51.5% of participants strongly agreeing on its significance. Continuous self-improvement among managers received substantial support (44.8% agreement), alongside recognition of the necessity for information sharing among departmental managers. The results also highlighted a prevailing focus on quality strategies within hotels, with 47.8% of respondents agreeing that their establishments prioritize quality over quantity.

Employee perspectives on effective crisis leadership skills in small and medium-sized enterprises

ABSTRACT Building on the 4Cs and five phases of crisis management and Hersey and Blanchard’s situational leadership model, this research aims to identify employees’ perspectives and expectations on crisis leadership characteristics and skills to lead organisations and decrease the disruptive effects of a black swan event. This exploratory research interviewed 43 small and medium-sized enterprise employees from wholesale and retail trade sectors in Taiwan and the U.S. and studied their expectations of effective crisis leadership. Using an inductive thematic analysis, this research identified eight themes for leaders to navigate and lead through crises and make positive changes. Personal qualities and abilities to excel are the top two themes mentioned by most of the interviewees. A follower-centred situational leadership that demonstrates positive personal qualities, focuses on employee safety, and assures job security and transparency can effectively lead the employees and organisation to overcome a crisis. The findings could be used for organisation leaders’ and HRD professionals’ practice as change agents and for future research in HRD theory and leadership.

Exploring individual foresight: Implications for organizational learning and innovation in firms

Corporate foresight (CF) is considered an organizational capability that contributes to the innovativeness and sustained competitive advantage of firms, particularly in the presence of organizational learning (OL). The business literature positions individuals as important to the CF process but it provides limited clarification about how individuals do foresight or, more specifically, how they experience foresight in organizations. Embracing the resource-based view of the firm, this study provides understanding of how individuals use tacit knowledge in individual foresight (IF) and engage in OL mechanisms to contribute to innovativeness. The micro-foundations of IF are examined to determine how employees experience IF in an organizational context. Adopting a phenomenological approach, 27 interviews were conducted with employees across the finance and insurance and utilities industries, resulting in a theoretical framework of IF. Examining the lifeworld of individuals as they experience foresight revealed a rich tapestry of both personal and intra-organizational social capital interactions useful in demonstrating the role of IF for innovation in firms. Storytelling, mentorship, and group reflection, supported by appropriate culture, leadership, and human resource strategies, confirm the value of fostering IF to encourage innovation. This study advances foresight research by broadening understanding of IF from an employee perspective—specifically, how IF is experienced and can foster OL and innovation outcomes for firms. Implications for firms and opportunities for a future research agenda are proposed.

The Blockchain Technology Applications and its Impact on Governance Performance: A Field Study on the Transportation Sector in Palestine

Objectives: Blockchain technology (BCT) is an advance technical solution incorporating many technologies, with the capacity to overcome governance's limitations. As a consequence, our study aims to analyzing how BCT applications affect governance performance (GP), testing the mediating role of operational efficiency (OE) in the ministry of transport in Palestine (MTP). This study was conducted during the period from 2022 to 2024. Methods: A paper applied research design (Survey), and a study unit consisting of 90 participants at MTP was used out of the target population (110). In contrast, simple random and stratified sampling techniques were applied for the determination of the research sample. Data collected via questionnaires and the study's hypotheses were evaluated using PLS-SEM. Results:. The main results showed that BCT and their impact on GP from the perspective of employees were high. Until the period of the research, Palestine lacked a clear strategy and policy for the usage of BCT. There was an impact of BCT dimensions on GP at the level of significance. OE has a fully mediating role in the effect of decentralization & traceability and a partial mediating role in the effect of transparency on GP. Conclusions: The paper advises MTP management to start a sound BCT and invest in it concurrently in order to materialize OE and achieve GP efficiency. Future studies can apply the study model to other sectors to verify the reliability of the model.

The influence of stakeholder theory and Islamic faith on employee perception of CSR

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the influences of employee perception of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the Readymade Garment Industry (RMG). The RMG industry in Bangladesh has faced constant criticism of their working practices, and following some fatal incidents, the industry was faced with external pressures of implementing CSR practices and policies. Manufacturers invested and initiated CSR in their business and marketing strategy to survive in the global competition. Employees are internal stakeholders that help to implement and disseminate strategies successfully; however, there is not enough knowledge in the area of employee perception of CSR. Design/methodology/approach The paper is an exploratory study using the quantitative data collection method. In total, 128 responses have been collected from participants who are employees of garment factories in Bangladesh to understand their perception of CSR. Regression analysis has been conducted to ascertain the relationships between the factors that influence employee perception. Theories of stakeholder management, organizational citizenship behaviour, social exchange theory and employee engagement have been used to analyse the factors that influence employee perception. Findings The findings show that the factors that influence perception of CSR are not confined to the stakeholder’s initiatives but are significantly dependent on the employees’ direct involvement, engagement and personal values as a beneficiary and an executioner. In addition to the stakeholder’s initiatives that are a key deliverable to the marketing strategy, the employees are influenced by their personal beliefs and practices that can be associated with influences of religion, culture and the wider social landscape. Research limitations/implications The data is limited to a small number of factories located near the capital, Dhaka, this is a small sample compared to the 4,000 factories in Bangladesh. Further research can be conducted based on a larger data set, which could represent a wider range of employee perspectives from different factories relating to size, product category and geographical location. The study does not expand on the factors that influence employee perception specifically. Practical implications The findings of the study can help the employers understand that the organization’s priority and participation are not the only factors that influence the employee’s perceptions. The employees’ assessment of the stakeholder’s intentions of CSR, which are reflected in the organization’s priority, shapes employee perceptions that are influenced by their personal values and beliefs. The awareness of the factors that influence the employees will enable organizations to motivate them and deliver on expectations of the business partners. Social implications It is the practices aimed at the employees that enhance their engagement in CSR that enable them to reciprocate and influence their perception of the organization’s fair and genuine motives. The effectiveness of this aids the macro-marketing aspects of managing social concerns and the impact of businesses. Originality/value The data collected is primary data from employees of garment manufacturers. The hypothesized framework is developed by the authors, and the outcomes of the factors that influence the employee perception of CSR are escalated from the analysis conducted by the authors.

Gamification in Training and Development: Conceptualizing Employee Perspectives

Gamification, which includes game components in non-gaming environments, has gained popularity across various organizations to enhance training and development. This study aims to explore the literature on the potential elements influencing employees ‘acceptance of gamification in training settings. Key variables explored include social influence, performance expectancy, self-efficacy, and age. By examining these factors, this conceptual study offers valuable insights for organizations aiming to implement gamification strategies effectively. The study provides a theoretical foundation for organizations to leverage gamification and highlights its role in fostering continuous professional development, inspiring organizations to embrace this innovative approach. Furthermore, the study highlights potential areas for future empirical research.

Teleworking and work-family balance in public educational institutions

PurposeThis article aims to investigate teleworking in public institutions, specifically focussing on the perspectives of technical-administrative employees at a Brazilian federal educational institution.Design/methodology/approachThe research methodology involved the use of guided semi-structured interviews with public servants. The analysis applied a prior set of categories derived from the advantages and disadvantages of teleworking, as well as the favourable and unfavourable aspects of the interaction between teleworking and family relationships.FindingsThe findings reveal a range of benefits associated with teleworking, primarily an improved quality of life for workers. However, the study also identified significant challenges, including excessive workload, social isolation and difficulties in separating personal and professional life, corroborating with previous studies.Research limitations/implicationsIt is crucial to note that the majority of participants in the study have children or dependants, which could potentially influence their teleworking strategies and experiences. This demographic factor may play a significant role in how participants navigate their work-from-home routines and manage their responsibilities, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.Practical implicationsWorking from home presents two sides of the same coin according to the vision of those involved in this type of work. Public organisations should know in depth the challenges faced by their workers to prioritise planning that monitors their workforce and achieve success with teleworking.Originality/valueThe insights from this study provide valuable guidance for the development of evidence-based teleworking policies and practices in public educational institutions.

Quiet quitting in the Dominican Republic: the employers’ perspective

Purpose This study aims to explore the phenomenon of “Quiet Quitting” from the perspective of employers in the Dominican Republic, particularly in the context of changes brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. Design/methodology/approach From a qualitative approach, based on methods of Grounded Theory, in-depth interviews were conducted with managers from various sectors. The data were analysed using open, axial and selective coding techniques to identify emerging themes. Findings The study identifies four main scenarios contributing to quiet quitting: Social Disconnection, Stress and Anxiety, Re-evaluation of Priorities and Changes in Job Expectations. These factors indicate a significant shift in the employee–employer relationship post-pandemic. Research limitations/implications The exploratory nature of this study limits its generalizability. Practical implications Organizations can mitigate quiet quitting by implementing flexible work policies, promoting work-life balance and enhancing communication between supervisors and employees. Social implications Addressing quiet quitting can lead to improved employee well-being, higher productivity and a more positive work environment. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first to examine quiet quitting in the Dominican Republic from the employers’ perspective, providing unique insights into this understudied phenomenon in the region.

Employee green behavior in laboratories of higher education institutions: a qualitative study

Purpose This study aims to explore employee green behavior in higher education institution (HEI) laboratories in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative approach was used to explore the green behavior experiences of individuals working in HEI laboratories. In-depth interviews were conducted with nine participants selected via purposive sampling. Thematic analysis was performed on the collected data using ATLAS.ti 9 software. Findings The analysis of the collected data identified five themes related to the green behavior in HEI laboratories. These themes, ranked in descending order of frequency, are conserving, avoiding harm, transforming, influencing others and taking initiative. The conserving theme accounted for one-third of the subcodes, as did the avoiding harm theme. The final one-third of subcodes was distributed among the remaining three themes. Research limitations/implications This study conducted virtual interviews and coincidentally interviewed only female participants. The findings contribute to the existing literature on the themes of green behavior among laboratory staff in HEIs and provide valuable insights for university managers and sustainability coordinators in shaping policies to promote environmentally friendly practices and address negative practices. Originality/value Despite existing studies on environmental practices in various workplace settings, the exploration of green behavior in HEI laboratories in the Kingdom of Bahrain from the employee perspective remains limited. This study presents a significant opportunity for researchers to explore sustainability in HEI laboratories and for policymakers to develop corresponding strategies.

User Experiences of Transitioning From a Homegrown Electronic Health Record to a Vendor-Based Product in the Department of Veterans Affairs: Qualitative Findings From a Mixed Methods Evaluation.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), the largest nationally integrated health system in the United States, is transitioning from its homegrown electronic health record (EHR) to a new vendor-based EHR, Oracle Cerner. Experiences of the first VA site to transition have been widely discussed in the media, but in-depth accounts based on rigorous research are lacking. We sought to explore employee perspectives on the rationale for, and value of, transitioning from a VA-tailored EHR to a vendor-based product. As part of a larger mixed methods, multisite, formative evaluation of VA clinician and staff experiences with the EHR transition, we conducted semistructured interviews at the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center before, during, and after going live in October 2020. In total, we completed 122 interviews with 26 participants across multiple departments. Before the new vendor-based EHR went live, participants initially expressed cautious optimism about the transition. However, in subsequent interviews following the go-live, participants increasingly critiqued the vendor's understanding of VA's needs, values, and workflows, as well as what they perceived as an inadequate fit between the functionalities of the new vendor-based EHR system and VA's characteristic approach to care. As much as a year after going live, participants reiterated these concerns while also expressing a desire for substantive changes to the transition process, with some questioning the value of continuing with the transition. VA's transition from a homegrown EHR to a vendor-based EHR system has presented substantial challenges, both practical and cultural in nature. Consequently, it is a valuable case study for understanding the sociotechnical dimension of EHR-to-EHR transitions. These findings have implications for both VA leadership and the broader community of policy makers, vendors, informaticists, and others involved in large-scale health information technology implementations.

The contributions of the Iranian health‐care system in the crisismanship of COVID‐19: A qualitative study

AbstractThis study aims to comprehend the contributions of Iran's health‐care system (HCS) in the “crisismanship” of the coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic from the perspectives of citizens, policy makers, managers, and public sector employees. The primary question is what have been the contributions of Iran's HCS in the crisismanship of COVID‐19? The study was designed and conducted using a qualitative strategy. It is reported that three core contributions were made: (1) the leadership of “a whole of crisis governance,” (2) the leading “a whole of crisis management,” and (3) conducting “a whole of operational activities during the COVID‐19.” Through this empirical study, we hope to fill a gap by examining the leadership contributions of the Iranian HCS in fighting COVID‐19. The findings of this study can provide researchers and thinkers with insights into policy and strategy making in times of crises such as those surrounding COVID‐19.Related ArticlesKasseeah, Harshana, and Susan Opp. 2023. “Wicked policy problems and COVID‐19 in small island developing states: The cases of Mauritius and Seychelles.” Politics & Policy 51(6): 1008–27. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12565.Onyango, Gedion, and Japheth Otieno Ondiek. 2022. “Open Innovation during the COVID‐19 Pandemic Policy Responses in South Africa and Kenya.” Politics & Policy 50(5): 1008–31. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12490.Vince, Joanna. 2023. “A Creeping Crisis When an Urgent Crisis Arises: The Reprioritization of Plastic Pollution Issues during COVID‐19.” Politics & Policy 51(1): 26–40. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12512.

“The police came in white protective suits and with batons, it was pure disaster” – a multi-stakeholder perspective on infection control in reception centers for asylum seekers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Germany

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges, particularly for vulnerable populations residing in confined settings such as refugee shelters: Physical distancing measures were challenging to implement in shelters due to shared rooms or communal use of kitchens and sanitary facilities, which increased the risk of infections. Meanwhile, individuals’ capabilities for individual protection strategies were severely impaired by the structure of the shelters. Consequently, shelters had the duty to develop and implement strategies for the prevention and handling of SARS-CoV-2 infections. The aim of this study was to explore the perspectives of refugees, NGO employees, and shelter directors regarding COVID-19-related measures in German refugee shelters. The study aimed to identify challenges and conflicts arising from implemented measures, as well as expectations for improved support during the pandemic.MethodsSemi-structured and narrative interviews were conducted with 6 refugees, 6 facility managers, 12 NGO staff, and 2 social service agency staff from February to August 2022. Qualitative content analysis was employed to analyze the data, identifying overarching themes and codes.ResultsThe study uncovered challenges and conflicts resulting from pandemic measures, particularly mass quarantine orders, within refugee shelters. Lack of transparency and ineffective communication worsened tensions, with refugees feeling distressed and anxious. The quarantine experience had a negative impact on refugees’ mental health, which was exacerbated by limited social interaction and leisure-time activities. Shelter managers encountered administrative challenges when implementing measures due to facility constraints and limited resources, while NGO employees encountered obstacles in providing immediate assistance due to legal regulations and a lack of cooperation from shelter managers.ConclusionsThe study highlights that shelters are problematic institutions from a public health perspective. It shows the importance of implementing customized pandemic interventions in refugee shelters that take account of the diverse needs and experiences of both refugee and staff. To achieve this, we recommend to establish an ethics committee and involve various stakeholders in decision-making processes. Additionally, enhancing information dissemination to promote transparency and public understanding of measures is crucial. These insights can help develop comprehensive and effective pandemic plans for refugee shelters, ensuring better preparedness for future public health crises.

Micro-credentials through the eyes of employers: benefits, challenges and enablers of effectiveness

Purpose This study explores the perceptions of Australian employers regarding the benefits and challenges of micro-credentials within higher education and enablers of their effectiveness.Design/methodology/approach A qualitative approach that included 11 semi-structured interviews with employers affiliated with an Australian university was used. A deductive thematic approach was employed to analyse the data.Findings Micro-credentials were generally seen to be beneficial for an array of people, including employees, employers, customers and communities – stakeholders in all environmental layers of micro-credentials’ ecological system. Findings also indicated that both challenges of micro-credentials and enablers of their effectiveness depended heavily on attributes of learners, employers and higher education providers. The conclusion is that, based on the evidence of this study, micro-credentials within higher education are worth trialling.Originality/value Although research interest in micro-credentials is growing, few empirical studies have investigated micro-credentials’ benefits, challenges and enablers of effectiveness, especially from the perspective of employers. The study carries practical and policy implications for those involved with micro-credential research and development.

Creating exceptional guest experiences: the role of engagement and relationship building in hospitality

PurposeThe study seeks to explore the intricate dynamics among customer relationship management (CRM) practices, guest satisfaction and loyalty in the hospitality context. Additionally, it aims to examine the moderating influence of guest engagement on the relationships between CRM practices and guest satisfaction and loyalty.Design/methodology/approachAn integrated theoretical framework is developed by incorporating CRM practices and guest engagement into the satisfaction-loyalty framework. Two research instruments were adapted from the literature to assess the perspectives of customers and employees in the hotel industry in Kashmir. The customer survey measured guest satisfaction, loyalty, and engagement, while the employee survey focused on CRM practices, including key customer focus and CRM organization. Data was collected using a pen-and-paper survey with convenience sampling across 10 qualifying hotels, each classified as 3-star or above. A total of 270 matched responses from guests and employees were obtained and analyzed using descriptive analysis, structural equation modeling (SEM), and moderation analysis with SPSS and AMOS software. The study utilized a rigorous data matching process to ensure reliability, with guest-employee pairs verified and cross-checked with hotel records.FindingsThe results indicate CRM practices play a pivotal role in shaping guest satisfaction and loyalty. Notably, personalization and a targeted customer approach emerged as the most influential factors in enhancing tourist satisfaction. Similarly, prospecting, personalization, and effective knowledge management significantly contributed to visitor loyalty. The establishment of robust relationships is underscored through collaborative active guest engagement. Furthermore, the study highlights the nuanced relationship between satisfaction and loyalty moderated by guest engagement. High levels of guest engagement amplify the positive impact of satisfaction on loyalty, while lower engagement levels attenuate this effect. Moreover, the moderating influence of guest engagement on the relationships between CRM practices and guest satisfaction and CRM practices and guest loyalty was notably strong at elevated guest engagement levels and relatively weaker at lower engagement levels.Research limitations/implicationsWhile the study findings encourage organizations to prioritize customer relationship development, hospitality entities must emphasize the adoption of CRM philosophy and robust guest engagement measures. Actively involving guests in co-creating services can yield incremental benefits in terms of attracting, retaining, and effectively serving guests.Originality/valueThis study introduces novel dimensions to the existing CRM framework within the hospitality context, specifically exploring the impact of hotel-specific elements (personalization and prospecting) on customer satisfaction and loyalty. Furthermore, it innovatively investigates the moderating role of guest engagement in the satisfaction-loyalty relationship, expanding its scope to include the relationships between CRM practices and guest satisfaction and guest loyalty.

Organizational employee listening competency for participatory employee communication: Employee perspectives

ABSTRACT This study proposes participatory employee communication as a conceptual framework for exploring and developing excellent organizational employee listening characteristics. Further, this study aims to address key characteristics of internal organizational listening competency, with 20 in-depth interviews with full-time US employees. From the interview data, 12 characteristics emerged in three critical dimensions of cognitive, affective, and behavioral competencies in listening. The findings indicate that employee listening should be considered part of the participatory organizational communication system and culture, supported by organizational structure, policies, procedures, and culture, and grounded in mutual orientation, which values employee voices as legitimate and valuable partners for organizational success. Based on the findings, the study proposes an organizational framework for employee listening competency with four dimensions and 13 attributes.

The potential synergy between air pollution control and employment growth

Public service sectors play crucial roles in maintaining societal functioning through the provision of essential services. However, amidst the backdrop of air pollution, their developmental trajectories may veer off course from their intended goals. Quantifying the impact of air pollution on public service sectors, particularly from an employment perspective, offers valuable insights for policymakers aiming to foster the sustainable growth of these sectors and expand the analysis framework on air pollution externalities. Drawing on monthly data spanning from January 2015 to December 2019 across 269 prefecture cities, this paper therefore explores the impact of air pollution on public service sector employment using a cross-lagged panel model with fixed effects. I find that air pollution negatively affects the employment scales in public service sectors. This negative employment shock is also unevenly distributed across areas and sub-sectors and intensifies over time. Cities belong to key areas for air pollution prevention and control, small and medium-sized cities, and secondary-industry dominated cities, suffer disproportionately negative employment shocks in their public service sectors. These findings offer actionable insights for policymakers to implement targeted measures supporting the continued growth of public service sectors and deepen understanding of the economic ramifications of air pollution.

Psycho-semantic analysis of job advertisements as a communicative tool of educational marketing

Introduction. The relevance of the study of job advertisements for teachers and psychologists is associated with the need to find tools for regulating communication within the modern educational environment with dynamic, constantly changing working conditions. The publication of employer requirements sets the direction for changing the criteria for the success of the specialist, which changes the entire educational environment. The purpose of the study: to identify the categorical semantic structure of job advertisements for teachers (using the example of the "Infrastructure of Scientific Research Data" platform). Materials and methods. The object of the study was a corpus of teacher job vacancies from the "Infrastructure of Scientific Research Data" platform, published in 2023 in 83 regions of Russia (5561 vacancies). The job postings included descriptions of candidate requirements, information about the offered salary, and the region in which the vacancy was available. As a comparison group, a corpus of psychologist job vacancies (2076 vacancies) was considered. The following methods were used in the study: 1) Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) method for identifying and analyzing the structure of requirements presented in teacher and psychologist job vacancies; 2) Term Frequency-Inverse Document Frequency (TF-IDF) method for categorical semantic analysis of the structure of teacher and psychologist job vacancies and description of the semantic framework (frame) of the job description; 3) Descriptive statistical methods for analyzing the needs of professionals in helping professions in different regions of Russia and the conditions offered to them. The results of the study. The regions of the Russian Federation with the greatest need for teachers and psychologists have been identified. Based on the statistical significance in the collection of text documents, the most demanded skills of teachers by employers are identified: methodological development and design of an individual educational route (0.167), work with children with disabilities (0.144), organization of the educational process (0.089). For vacancies of psychologists, the most significant were: work on investigative actions (0.319), methodical work in an educational organization (0.187), psychological and pedagogical support for successful development and training (0.129). The main meanings governing professional pedagogical activity are more focused on meta-skills based on the values of inclusion and continuous improvement of education, as well as on flexible skills (Soft skills) that increase competitiveness in various fields of pedagogical activity. In the vacancies of psychologists, professional skills (Hard skills) are relevant, applicable in specific areas, which somewhat narrows the scope of professional implementation. Conclusion. The results of the empirical study allow for considering job vacancy advertisements as one of the communicative tools of educational marketing. Analyzing the significant professional skills from the employer's perspective will enable the development of recommendations for the development of professional communication for teachers, which can be considered in the system of continuous professional education, as well as in regulating interaction within the educational environment. Automated analysis of job vacancies can become a successful interactive diagnostic tool for educational marketing, necessary for the development of the educational space and the improvement of the competitiveness of educational institutions.

Assessing organizational framework conditions for the successful, human-centered introduction of AI applications

AbstractAs part of WIRKsam Competence Center, the authors aim to identify and improve organizational conditions in companies that are conducive to the successful introduction of AI technologies in the workplace. This paper examines various factors that are considered crucial for effective AI integration, including technology acceptance, access to IT infrastructure, workforce structure, organizational culture and participatory practices. Using a mixed-methods approach, WIRKsam relates the initial organizational conditions to the researchers’ assessments and experiences of the first 24 months of the study. The analysis uses both qualitative and quantitative data and provides a robust framework for identifying the respective organizational prerequisites.It aims to map these factors and provide insights. Our results show the application partners involved in WIRKsam as companies with individual characteristics of technology and AI affinity as well as different organizational cultures. The workforce is predominantly male. Slightly more than half of the employees are 45 years and older. Overall, the research activities in WIRKsam are met with openness to electronic devices and AI. However, the fears of the employees are somewhat underestimated by the researchers. Employees rate their knowledge and experience with regard to AI as low and need support here in order to be able to participate in the participatory design of work systems in a more informed way. Management support is a key aspect of technology adoption that employees find important. Their absence is accompanied by worries about the job and lower expectations of positive changes in work, among other things. The knowledge gained will be incorporated into the development of tailor-made action plans to optimize conditions in similar environments.Practical relevance: Using the example of the application companies in WIRKsam Competence Center, the results show that there are very different combinations of framework conditions for the successful introduction of AI into operational practice in companies. Action plans can be derived to individually adapt the integrated approach according to the WIRKsam procedure model. The applied mix of methods allows a very comprehensive analysis and contributes to the validity of the results. In particular, the survey of researchers contributes to new findings, the importance of which lies on the one hand in complementing the perspective of employees and the company as a whole, and on the other hand in providing the researchers themselves with a basis for reflecting on their basic assumptions as an entire research team.

MOOCs for Reskilling and Upskilling: A Perspective of Employees’ Acceptance

<em>MOOCs have transformed professional development, yet businesses lack data on employee adoption, hindering the optimization of digital learning initiatives. This study investigated factors influencing Saudi Arabian employees' behavioural intentions and MOOC usage across sectors. Utilizing the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT)</em> <em>model, we examined how performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, and behavioural intention affect MOOC adoption. Online surveys were distributed to 1036 participants from diverse industries using snowball sampling. This research employed the Partial-Least-Square-Structural-Equation-Modelling (P-L-S-S-E-M) approach in two phases. Results indicated that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, and facilitating conditions significantly impact employees' MOOC intentions and usage, while social influence does not. Years of experience and sector moderate these relationships. This research provided empirical evidence and actionable insights for corporations investing in MOOCs, suggesting strategies to address employee needs across sectors and experience levels, foster a supportive organizational culture, and incentivize MOOC usage for professional development and reskilling, particularly among more experienced employees.</em>

Evaluation of Digital Mental Health Technologies in the United States: Systematic Literature Review and Framework Synthesis.

Digital mental health technologies (DMHTs) have the potential to enhance mental health care delivery. However, there is little information on how DMHTs are evaluated and what factors influence their use. A systematic literature review was conducted to understand how DMHTs are valued in the United States from user, payer, and employer perspectives. Articles published after 2017 were identified from MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, the Health Technology Assessment Database, and digital and mental health congresses. Each article was evaluated by 2 independent reviewers to identify US studies reporting on factors considered in the evaluation of DMHTs targeting mental health, Alzheimer disease, epilepsy, autism spectrum disorder, or attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. Study quality was assessed using the Critical Appraisal Skills Program Qualitative and Cohort Studies Checklists. Studies were coded and indexed using the American Psychiatric Association's Mental Health App Evaluation Framework to extract and synthesize relevant information, and novel themes were added iteratively as identified. Of the 4353 articles screened, data from 26 unique studies from patient, caregiver, and health care provider perspectives were included. Engagement style was the most reported theme (23/26, 88%), with users valuing DMHT usability, particularly alignment with therapeutic goals through features including anxiety management tools. Key barriers to DMHT use included limited internet access, poor technical literacy, and privacy concerns. Novel findings included the discreetness of DMHTs to avoid stigma. Usability, cost, accessibility, technical considerations, and alignment with therapeutic goals are important to users, although DMHT valuation varies across individuals. DMHT apps should be developed and selected with specific user needs in mind.