Information Technology Innovation Research Articles

Blockchain-Based Lean Supply Chain: A Simulation Approach

This paper aims to propose a model based on blockchain and cloud computing technologies to support lean production techniques for industrial supply chain management, evaluating how the combination of these technologies provides improvement in the chain performance. The literature review contextualizes the state of the art in studies related to the application of blockchain technology to lean manufacturing processes, as well as identifies research gaps in this field. Besides, this study models and simulates an architecture based on both the Hyperledger Fabric network and a virtual machine in the cloud environment, assessing its applicability and performance in the industrial supply chain. The analysis addresses lean aspects identified as research gaps, including integration of stakeholders in the collaborative production of customized products, conditions of flexibility and adaptability to demand variations, coordinated relationship of networks involving small and medium-sized enterprises, and behavior of various players acting simultaneously and consensually. The proposed model reveals a decentralized and nonlinear information sharing concept that demonstrates a logic of simultaneous participation of all players involved in the supply chain. The low costs and processing times identified in the simulation indicate the robustness of the system even in transactions involving a large number of companies and a large amount of data. This architecture offers an integration solution between stakeholders to support operational processes, providing insights for researchers and specialists in the adoption of innovative, reliable and inclusive information technologies for companies of different sizes or levels of development, with a focus on lean manufacturing, reduction in resource consumption and cost reduction. The developed model, which combines blockchain and cloud computing technologies applied to stages of lean production systems, presents a differentiated solution on the planning of integrated production systems, indicating the differential in this work.

Does digital economy affect corporate ESG performance? New insights from China

With the explosive development and innovation of digital and information technologies, a big data era has arrived in China. We examine the influence of the digital economy on corporate ESG performance using panel data from A-share listed firms in China between 2011 and 2021. First, we find that the digital economy can significantly improve corporate ESG performance, especially in environmental and governance dimensions. Second, our mechanism analysis identifies two channels—green innovation and digital transformation—through which the digital economy affects corporate ESG performance. Third, our cross-sectional analysis shows that the effect of the digital economy on corporate ESG performance is more pronounced for listed firms located in areas with lower economic levels, facing higher financing constraints, and belonging to high-polluting industries. Finally, our results remain robust after conducting a series of tests. Our study underscores the policy implication that embracing and promoting digital economy initiatives can serve as a potent lever to enhance corporate ESG performance, particularly in environmental and governance dimensions.

How do small-to-medium-sized e-commerce businesses stay competitive? Evidence on the critical roles of IT capability, innovation and multihoming

PurposeSmall-to-medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in e-commerce often invest in information technology (IT) to stay competitive. However, whether and how IT capability (ITC) translates into financial performance requires further research. This paper examines the role of ITC in enabling value proposition innovation (VPI) as an important mechanism that improves financial performance for Chinese e-commerce SMEs during the COVID-19 pandemic. We argue that ITC is critical for enabling innovation because it elevates SMEs’ understanding of changing customer needs, especially when SMEs operate on multiple e-commerce platforms (multihome).Design/methodology/approachWe used partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and tested the hypotheses that ITC mediated by VPI and moderated by multihoming increases the financial performance of e-commerce SMEs through a survey among 206 Chinese SMEs operating on Taobao.FindingsWe find that not only higher levels of ITC lead to better financial performance, but also that the effect is fully mediated by VPI. Moreover, the effect of ITC on innovation is enhanced when vendors operate on multiple platforms.Originality/valueThe study identifies VPI as an important mechanism through which SMEs can leverage their ITC to adapt, innovate and thrive in competition. Our work suggests that using technology to develop innovative ideas and identify opportunities (which are reflected in VPI) is key to success and that doing so is more likely when vendors multihome. Thus, this study contributes to the innovation literature by explicating a concrete link between ITC, multihoming, VPI and increased financial performance. Different e-commerce stakeholders, including SME owners, IT and service providers and e-commerce platforms, can benefit from the findings of this work.

Postoperative Delirium and the Older Adult: Untangling the Confusion.

Postoperative delirium is one of the most prevalent postoperative complications, affecting mostly older adults. Its incidence is expected to rise because of surgical advances, shifting demographics, and increased life expectancy. Although an acute alteration in brain function, postoperative delirium is associated with adverse outcomes, including progressive cognitive decline and dementia, that place significant burdens on patients' lives and healthcare systems. This has prompted efforts to understand the mechanisms of postoperative delirium to provide effective prevention and treatment. There are multiple mechanisms involved in the etiology of postoperative delirium that share similarities with the physiological changes associated with the aging brain. In addition, older patients often have multiple comorbidities including increased cognitive impairment that is also implicated in the genesis of delirium. These tangled connections pinpointed a shift toward creation of a holistic model of the pathophysiology of postoperative delirium. Scientific advancements integrating clinical risk factors, possible postoperative delirium biomarkers, genetic features, digital platforms, and other biotechnical and information technological innovations, will become available in the near future. Advances in artificial intelligence, for example, will aggregate cognitive testing platforms with patient-specific postoperative delirium risk stratification studies, panels of serum and cerebrospinal fluid molecules, electroencephalogram signatures, and gut microbiome features, along with the integration of novel polygenetic variants of sleep and cognition. These advances will allow for the enrollment of high-risk patients into prevention programs and help uncover new pharmacologic targets.

Need of Innovation in Information Technology for Effective Electronic Communication for the Assistance of Tourists

This paper highlights need of innovation in information technology for effective electronic communication by using various applications which will help to bring ease in tourism for tourists. It covers the study of information required for tourists for tourism and the use of information technology. Different aspect of this research paper is to identify the need of innovation in existing information technology for effective electronic communication through mobile or any other electronic device which are used by tourist to find required information, to find lacunas in and to suggest appropriate innovations in existing application to bring ease in tourism and will help to provide security and safety and proper guidance to the tourists.

Building to learn: Information technology innovations to enable rapid pragmatic evaluation in a learning health system

AbstractBackgroundLearning health systems (LHSs) iteratively generate evidence that can be implemented into practice to improve care and produce generalizable knowledge. Pragmatic clinical trials fit well within LHSs as they combine real‐world data and experiences with a degree of methodological rigor which supports generalizability.ObjectivesWe established a pragmatic clinical trial unit (“RapidEval”) to support the development of an LHS. To further advance the field of LHS, we sought to further characterize the role of health information technology (HIT), including innovative solutions and challenges that occur, to improve LHS project delivery.MethodsDuring the period from December 2021 to February 2023, eight projects were selected out of 51 applications to the RapidEval program, of which five were implemented, one is currently in pilot testing, and two are in planning. We evaluated pre‐study planning, implementation, analysis, and study closure approaches across all RapidEval initiatives to summarize approaches across studies and identify key innovations and learnings by gathering data from study investigators, quality staff, and IT staff, as well as RapidEval staff and leadership.Implementation (Results)Implementation approaches spanned a range of HIT capabilities including interruptive alerts, clinical decision support integrated into order systems, patient navigators, embedded micro‐education, targeted outpatient hand‐off documentation, and patient communication. Study approaches include pre‐post with time‐concordant controls (1), randomized stepped‐wedge (1), cluster randomized across providers (1) and location (3), and simple patient level randomization (2).ConclusionsStudy selection, design, deployment, data collection, and analysis required close collaboration between data analysts, informaticists, and the RapidEval team.

Optimization of Internal Control for Budget Operations in Public Institutions Based on Random Forest Algorithm

In order to promote the construction of internal control in public institutions and improve work efficiency, the author proposes an optimization of internal control in public institution budget business based on random forest algorithm. We have constructed a big data audit framework for internal control of A Maritime Bureau based on the financial cloud platform and sorted out its audit process. By using the random forest algorithm to identify suspicious points in the internal control audit of administrative institutions at the data level, an example analysis is conducted using some data from A Maritime Bureau's assets, budget, revenue and expenditure, infrastructure, and contract business. The results indicate that the design of the internal control big data audit plan for administrative institutions will promote the innovation of audit information technology and application in A Maritime Bureau, provide theoretical guidance for the internal control big data audit carried out by administrative institutions, and effectively solve the problems of high workload and low work efficiency when A Maritime Bureau conducts internal control big data audits, thereby improving audit efficiency.

Toward sustainable climate action in advanced economies: Linking information communication technology, technological innovation, economic complexity, and ecological footprint

AbstractInformation and communication technology (ICT), technological innovation, and renewable energy (REN) consumption have been proffered as solutions to the recent environmental tragedies in developed countries. In recent times, ICT diffusion and technological innovation have improved in G7 countries, but the same cannot be said of REN consumption. As such, this study examines the link between ICT, economic complexity, technological innovation, REN, and ecological footprint (EF) for G7 countries over the period 1990–2020. We use three variables (fixed telephone subscriptions [FTS], mobile cellular subscriptions [MCS], and individuals using the internet [IUI]) to represent ICT. The presence of cross‐sectional dependence guides the use of second‐generation econometric methods for slope heterogeneity, unit root, cointegration, and parameter estimation. The augment mean group (AMG) estimator and panel OLS techniques are applied to complement the method of moment quantile regression (MM‐QR) approach. The MM‐QR results suggest that REN consumption and technological innovation impede the EF across all quantile levels (0.1–0.9), whereas economic growth and economic complexity augment the EF in G7 countries. The ICT variables have heterogeneous effects on the EF, suggesting that the impact of ICT on the EF depends on the estimation techniques and proxy for the variable. In line with these outcomes, public policies directed toward funding technological innovation projects are recommended. The funding should specifically focus on environmentally friendly technologies that can guarantee complementarity between reduced environmental damage and increased economic growth.

AGILE WORK CULTURES IN IT: A CONCEPTUAL ANALYSIS OF HR'S ROLE IN FOSTERING INNOVATION SUPPLY CHAIN

This study systematically examines the role of Human Resources (HR) in fostering agile work cultures within the Information Technology (IT) sector, with a focus on enhancing the innovation supply chain. Through a comprehensive literature review and content analysis, this research explores how HR practices can support and drive the adoption of agile methodologies, thereby contributing to organizational flexibility, innovation, and competitive advantage. The methodology involved sourcing data from academic databases and grey literature, employing a strategic search strategy, and applying strict inclusion and exclusion criteria to identify relevant literature. The analysis highlighted the critical role of HR in developing agile leadership, fostering a culture of continuous learning and psychological safety, and leveraging HR technologies to enhance workforce agility. Key findings reveal that HR's strategic interventions in leadership development, learning and development frameworks, and the promotion of agile team dynamics are essential in cultivating an agile work culture. Furthermore, the study anticipates future challenges and opportunities in agile work cultures, including the integration of remote work models, artificial intelligence, and ensuring diversity and inclusion. Strategic recommendations for HR leaders and IT executives emphasize the importance of investing in agile leadership, enhancing team dynamics, and promoting a culture of continuous improvement. Finally, the study underscores the pivotal role of HR in enabling agile transformations within IT sectors. Future research directions include exploring the impact of emerging technologies on agile methodologies and the role of HR in fostering inclusive and diverse agile teams. This research contributes to the understanding of how agile practices supported by HR innovations can drive organizational success in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.
 Keywords: Agile Work Cultures, Human Resources (HR), Information Technology (IT) Innovation, Agile Leadership Development.

Innovation in Healthcare Through Information Technologies: A Review

The application of innovative information technologies in healthcare can definitely subside the present limitations of the healthcare industry through better affability and accessibility. It encompasses the use of artificial intelligence, big data, biomedical research including drug invention, medical education, innovative/robotic surgical technology, cutting-edge equipment, telemedicine, virtual consultation, online supportive platforms, etc. The present review is an attempt to identify and analyse the impact of these innovative information technologies and explore the potential scope of improvement in the Indian healthcare system. The database search was performed in Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, ProQuest, Google Scholar and Wiley Online Library. Initially, 319 articles related to innovative digital healthcare technologies have been sourced. However, 105 articles were taken into consideration for the review due to various exclusion criteria. Through an extensive review of previously published articles, the present study concludes that undoubtedly information technologies and their applications aid providers reduce inefficiencies, increasing quality, increasing access, removing human errors, reducing costs and making diagnosis, treatment and medicine more personalised for patients. It has really improved the quality, quick and convenient healthcare system.

IT capability and innovation

We propose that information technology (IT) capability promotes innovation performance by facilitating knowledge-intensive assets. We use firms listed on InformationWeek 500 as a measure of IT capability, finding that IT capability positively impacts firm innovation. We further determine that IT capability is important in innovation, indicating that firms may facilitate knowledge assets by advancing networks and sharing information efficiently. Furthermore, the relationship between IT capability and firm innovation is more pronounced for firms with more intense competition because innovation is more critical in competitive high-tech industries. By fostering knowledge sharing, our study can provide a more nuanced understanding of IT's role in impacting firm innovation in an increasingly complex environment. This study contributes to the literature on innovation and the economic consequences of IT capability.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PLATFORM FOR ARMS TRADE

Based on the postulate that the arms trade is generally a complex, specific and multifaceted field of activity, which includes the production, distribution, sale and use of various types of weapons and military equipment. In this context, the authors of the article proposed the development of an innovative information technology platform for accounting and analysis of arms trade processes, which takes into account the peculiarities of domestic legislation. It was noted that the use of blockchain technology on the information and technological platform of weapons sales is aimed at increasing security and tracking the full set of transactions, reducing risks and ensuring maximum transparency of processes. It is assumed that each stage of the life cycle of weapons, starting from design, production and ending with sale, will be recorded by blockchain methods and means. Information about the manufacturer, the date of manufacture, transportation, purchase and acceptance of the weapon by the customer will be recorded in the blocks. With the use of an information technology platform, the validity of licenses will be checked with each transaction, ensuring the legality of the sale and taking into account the unique characteristics of each weapon unit. The information technology platform will store information about transactions, including price, date and participants, smart contracts, etc. Development of an information technology platform that is conveniently integrated into the system of international standards and regulators, as well as meets numerous specific requirements and restrictions on arms trade. The authors of the article claim that the use of cryptography in blockchain technology provides reliable encryption and protection of confidential information, which is critical in a sensitive subject area such as the arms trade, and also contributes to a significant increase in the level of security, transparency and trust among participants in this specific industry. The conducted analysis confirms the expediency of using the potential of blockchain technology to optimize and increase the efficiency of the accounting of arms trade processes, as well as to ensure the reliability and safety of the functioning of the innovative information technology platform.

Implementation of Information and Communication Technology Innovation Policy through E-Government in Public Services

The development of information and communication technology encourages changes in community activities in various sectors. One of them is in the public service sector brought by the government through e-government. This research aims to discover how information and communication technology innovation policies are implemented through e-government in public services. The method used in this research is Systematic Literature Review (SLR) from the Google Scholar site within the year of 2012-2023. From the search results, a selection process was performed, resulting in 20 journals for analysis. The research results show that many of the current researchers are focusing on e-government, specifically regarding public services at the local government level. Interviews and observations are widely used data collection techniques. Elements that help the implementation of e-authorities offerings in public offerings are supported via way of means of a organized bureaucratic structure, making plans and a centralized and ok system. Obstacles for the implementation of e-authorities offerings in public offerings are encouraged via way of means of the exceptional of human resources, incomplete making plans, the exceptional of centers and infrastructure, and public recognition of e-authorities itself

Marketing analytics acceptance: using the UTAUT, perceived trust, personal innovativeness in information technology and user attitude

Purpose The use of innovative technologies by firm employees is a key factor in ensuring the competitiveness of firms. However, researchers and practitioners have been concerned about the willingness of technology end users to use innovative technologies. This study, therefore, aims to determine the factors affecting the intention to use marketing analytics technology. Design/methodology/approach This study surveyed 213 firm employees. The quantitative data collected was analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling. Findings The results reveal that performance expectancy, facilitating conditions, attitudes and perceived trust have a positive and significant effect on intentions to use marketing analytics. Effort expectancy, social influence and personal innovativeness in information technology were found not to predict intentions to use marketing analytics. Practical implications This study has practical implications for firms seeking to enhance the use of marketing analytics technology in developing countries. Originality/value This study contributes to the use of UTAUT, perceived trust, personal innovativeness and user attitude in predicting the intentions to use marketing analytics technology.

Advantages and Limitations of Information Technology in Preschool Education Teaching

With the progress of society and economic development, the innovation of information technology is rapidly changing our way of life and work. This change not only affects adults but also deeply influences our children, especially those in the early stages of education. The application of information technology in preschool education can greatly enrich educational content and provide diverse teaching methods. Through multimedia forms such as animations, music, and videos, teachers can vividly impart knowledge to young children and stimulate their interest in learning. At the same time, information technology can help teachers better understand each child, know their learning needs and individual characteristics, and thus formulate more suitable teaching plans for their growth. However, in practical application, the integration of information technology and preschool education also faces some challenges. Therefore, teachers should clarify the positioning of information technology as an auxiliary tool that cannot replace traditional educational methods. While using information technology, teachers should strengthen interaction with young children and pay attention to their emotional needs.

Research on Teaching Reform Integrating Information Technology Innovation -- A Case Study of Logistics Information Technology and Management Course

Research on Teaching Reform Integrating Information Technology Innovation -- A Case Study of Logistics Information Technology and Management Course

Building Competitive Advantage Through Information Technology Integration in Marketing and Branding Management Strategies

This study delves into the crucial role of information technology (IT) integration in marketing and branding management strategies, highlighting its significance as a pivotal element for businesses aiming to secure a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. In an era marked by digital transformation, the confluence of innovative IT solutions with traditional marketing and branding frameworks emerges as a strategic necessity for companies navigating the complexities of today’s marketplace. This research posits that such integration is instrumental in revolutionizing how organizations communicate with their target audiences, offering new pathways for differentiation and value creation. Exploring the paradigm shift induced by the advent of digital platforms, social media, and data analytics, the paper examines how these technologies have expanded the opportunities for businesses to engage with consumers on a more personalized and impactful level. It asserts that the digital transformation enables the harnessing of data-driven insights, thereby optimizing marketing strategies, brand positioning, and customer relationships. This integration transcends operational enhancements, dictating the long-term success and sustainability of businesses through strategic necessity. Moreover, the study addresses the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of digital technologies, emphasizing the importance of agility and innovation in exploiting new tools and platforms to maintain competitive superiority. It explores the potential of artificial intelligence, blockchain, and augmented reality in enhancing marketing effectiveness and brand appeal. However, it also acknowledges the challenges inherent in IT integration, such as data privacy, cybersecurity, and the need for continuous adaptation and employee skill development. Drawing upon theoretical frameworks and practical case studies, this research aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the role of IT in enhancing marketing and branding strategies. It seeks to offer insights into the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities within the digital marketing landscape, facilitating a deeper understanding of how businesses can leverage technology to foster a sustainable competitive advantage. Ultimately, this paper endeavors to illuminate the strategic importance of IT integration in marketing and branding, guiding businesses towards more effective and innovative practices in the digital age.

Calculation of product service systems in single and small batch production

AbstractSingle and small batch production is characterized by complex value-added processes and products. The transparent calculation of new offers and change requests is therefore a particular challenge. At the same time, the rising spread of product service systems (PSS) increases the complexity of costing, as additional intangible services have to be calculated precisely. In addition to the challenges posed by such precise calculation of intangible services, companies have to master another complexity driver in the form of PSS. Innovative information and communication technologies (ICT) offer new potential for effective and efficient design of the costing process for the entire life cycle. The rising availability of data along the entire product life cycle significantly increases transparency and, thanks to intelligent analysis algorithms, allows the identification of clear cause-and-effect relationships and forecasting options. The aim of the presented paper is thus to develop a model for calculation of PPS in single and small batch production that exploits the new potential of ICT.

THE SIGNIFICANCE OF CLOUD ACCOUNTING IMPLEMENTING AND ITS INFLUENCE ON ENHANCING THE QUALITY OF FINANCIAL REPORTING: EVIDENCE FROM EMERGING MARKETS

The present study seeks to elucidate the significant impact of cloud accounting technologies as a type of innovation in information technology and its contribution to enhancing the financial reporting standard within the scope of international standards. To reach the objectives of this study and look at hypotheses through a descriptive and analytical lens, it is necessary to look at previous research and use it to make a questionnaire that shows how important it is to use cloud accounting techniques to improve the quality of financial reporting. The system comprises two axes, and the total number of questions reached 26. The distribution was conducted among a subset of employees in publicly traded corporations. 118 participants were included in the study conducted on the Iraqi Stock Exchange. The hypotheses were examined using descriptive statistics, the Pearson correlation matrix, and the structural equation modelling technique with the statistical software SPSS version 26. The findings demonstrated a statistically significant influence of cloud accounting, namely at a rate of 26.6%, on attaining high-quality financial reporting. It became evident that the future of cloud accounting in Iraq would be remarkable if the government and all companies made every effort to overcome the challenges and barriers that hinder its implementation, thereby significantly enhancing the generation of high-quality financial statements aligned with international financial reporting standards.

Effects of blockchain technology (BT) on the university librarians and libraries: a systematic literature review (SLR)

PurposeThe objectives of the study were to identify the effects of blockchain technology (BT) on the university librarians, the impact of BT on the university library services and to reveal the challenges to adopt BT in the university libraries.Design/methodology/approachA systematic literature review was applied to address the objectives of the study. Around 25 studies published in peer-reviewed journals were selected to conduct the study.FindingsThe findings of the study revealed that blockchain technology (BT) has positive effects on the university librarians as it assists them in digital resources management, provision of integrated library services, effective records management and continued professional development. The study also displayed that BT has a positive impact on the university libraries through effective information management, user privacy, collaboration, technological innovation and access control. Results also revealed that technical issues, financial constraints, security problems, skill issues and sociocultural issues created challenges to adopt BT in the university libraries.Originality/valueThe study has offered theoretical implications for future investigators through the provision of innovative literature on the prospectus and challenges associated with blockchain in the context of librarianship. The study has also provided practical implications for management bodies by offering recommendations for the successful adoption of blockchain in the university libraries. Additionally, a framework has been developed to adopt BT successfully in the university libraries for the delivery of smart library services to library patrons.