Initial Adoption Research Articles

Navigating the Clouds: An Exploratory Research of Cloud Computing Adoption in Saudi Arabia's Small and Medium Enterprises

The adoption of cloud computing has become essential for SMEs, especially in the e-commerce industry, as it has the potential to improve the efficiency of operations. However, the existing literature indicates significant gaps, including a general lack of comprehensive research focused on cloud computing adoption for SMEs and very limited research on the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) context. This study aimed to fill these gaps by evaluating the current status of cloud computing adoption by SMEs in KSA and identifying the challenges facing its implementation in the e-commerce sector. To achieve these objectives, the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework was employed, analyzing the technological, organizational, and environmental factors that affect cloud service adoption. This study incorporates insights from government agencies, service providers, and SMEs to provide a holistic view. Through a mixed-method approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data, this study offers a detailed understanding of the cloud computing landscape in KSA, providing valuable insights for stakeholders and policymakers.

Green infrastructure and sustainability initiatives in the construction industry: A review of current practices and future directions

This paper presents a comprehensive review of current practices and future directions regarding the integration of green infrastructure and sustainability initiatives within the construction industry. With the growing concern over environmental degradation and the need for sustainable development, there has been an increasing emphasis on adopting eco-friendly practices in construction processes. The primary objective of this review is to explore the role of green infrastructure and sustainability initiatives in transforming traditional construction practices towards more environmentally responsible and resource-efficient approaches. Through a systematic literature review, this paper examines various aspects including the adoption of green building standards, implementation of renewable energy technologies, utilization of eco-friendly materials, and incorporation of nature-based solutions in construction projects. Additionally, the research methodology involves analyzing case studies, industry reports, and governmental policies to provide a comprehensive understanding of current practices and emerging trends in the field. Key findings indicate a growing awareness and adoption of green infrastructure and sustainability initiatives within the construction industry, driven by regulatory requirements, economic incentives, and shifting societal values. Moreover, successful implementation of these initiatives has been shown to yield numerous benefits such as reduced environmental impact, improved energy efficiency, enhanced occupant health and wellbeing, and long-term cost savings. This review underscores the significant role of green infrastructure and sustainability initiatives in reshaping the construction industry towards a more sustainable future. However, it also highlights the need for further research, technological innovation, and policy support to overcome existing challenges and accelerate the transition towards truly sustainable construction practices

Technological Factor and Technological Adoption in Agricultural Enterprises of the San Quintín Valley: Validity And Reliability of the Instrument

Objective: to present the process of validation and reliability of the design of a measurement instrument to measure the variables technological factor and technological adoption in agricultural enterprises. Theoretical framework: The research addresses the technological factor that emerges from the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) model as a determinant of technological adoption, developing the concepts and focusing on their behavior in agricultural companies. Method: The methodology used is based on a non-experimental cross-sectional study with an explanatory correlational scope, applying statistical analysis techniques to assess the validity and reliability of the instrument. Results: The values of KMO = 0.853 and Cronbach's Alpha = 0.926 allow us to infer that the instrument has an adequate validity and reliability to measure the constructs. Discussion and conclusions: Based on the results obtained, it was concluded that the instrument is suitable to measure the influence of the technological factor on the adoption of technology in the case of agricultural companies in the San Quentin Valley. Implications of research: The research contributes to the understanding of the influence of the technological factor in the technological adoption in agricultural companies, allowing to formulate strategies for their management and with it to increase in this type of companies the level of systematization according to the current digital economy. Originality/value: The research provides a measurement tool that allows data to be collected to understand the context of agricultural companies regarding technological adoption.

Digitalizing corporate whistleblowing systems: the role of country peers in the adoption of substantive CSR initiatives

Purpose This study aims to examine whether companies adopt digital platforms for corporate whistleblowing systems (CWSs), as more substantive corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, by following the existing practices of their industry peers (competitive pressure) and/or geographical location peers (legitimacy pressure). Design/methodology/approach This study identifies 446 focal companies in the European Economic Area that introduced new CWSs during 2017–2021. Then, the peers are defined as companies with existing CWS practices that are similar in size to each focal company. Using a quantitative approach, this study uses a logistic regression model. Findings This study finds that companies are more likely to adopt digital CWS if their country peers (not, industry peers) have done so, especially the ones operated in countries where governments build CSR partnerships with companies through cooperative consensus. However, the role of country peers is less prominent when companies have CSR committees. Practical implications This study shows the importance of country norms over competitive pressure in CSR. Nevertheless, the results offer additional insights for policy-makers by showing that country regulations mandating CWSs are not significant in promoting the adoption of digital CWS nor reducing the role of country peers. Social implications Providing CWSs with digital platforms may show corporate commitment to better preventing social misconduct and improving social responsibility. Originality/value While most literature focuses on the role of industry peers and/or community peers in a single-country setting, this study examines the role of country peers specifically on digitalization regarding CSR and governance.

A thematic analysis of factors influencing small and medium enterprise adoption of social media marketing: a TOE framework perspective

Purpose This paper aims to examine the factors influencing the adoption of social media marketing by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Pakistan. By investigating the drivers and challenges/barriers affecting the adoption of social media marketing tools among SMEs, this study provides practical guidance to SMEs seeking to utilize social media platforms for marketing purposes in a developing context such as Pakistan. Design/methodology/approach Utilizing the Technology-Organization-Environment (TOE) framework as a theoretical framework, qualitative data were collected through semistructured interviews with representatives of SMEs in Pakistan, followed by thematic analysis of the data. Findings The research identifies several key factors influencing the adoption of social media marketing by Pakistani SMEs. These factors include doubts regarding the benefits of social media, alignment with regulatory requirements, challenges related to tracking social media performance, resistance from senior management (older employees), the positive influence of competitive pressure and the Covid-19 pandemic, political instability and increased government taxes on digital services. Stakeholders such as marketing professionals, academics, policymakers, government authorities and SME owners and managers can benefit from these findings. Originality/value This research contributes to the academic literature on the adoption of social media marketing by SMEs, especially within emerging economies. It enriches theoretical understanding of adoption processes and factors, filling gaps in existing knowledge and laying a foundation for future research in this domain. Using the TOE framework, the study reveals that when all factors are adequately considered, SMEs can transition from traditional marketing methods and embrace social media as a digital marketing strategy to enhance performance, profitability, and gain a competitive advantage over their rivals.

What Does Green Logistics Bring to the Circular Economy? An Exploratory Study to Connect the Dots

The world population has increased, and consumerist trends have intensified the need for initiatives to minimize industrial activities' environmental and social impacts. Companies and governments are increasingly recognizing the relevance of these initiatives, yet many firms still follow resource extraction models that hinder sustainability efforts. While previous studies have explored the link between green logistics and the circular economy, gaps remain in understanding how these practices can be leveraged to achieve a competitive advantage in different international contexts. This research aims to fill these gaps by exploring the role of green logistics in promoting the circular economy, using a quantitative approach based on Brazilian and Portuguese companies. The study, therefore, focuses on how logistics practices can support the adoption of circular economy initiatives, minimize environmental impacts, and contribute to competitive advantage. The findings from linear regression analysis indicate that green logistics significantly enhances the implementation of circular economy practices, providing both environmental benefits and strategic advantages in the market. This empirical evidence advances the literature by demonstrating that green logistics is not only crucial for circular economy adoption but also for gaining a competitive edge. Our insights are particularly valuable for academia, businesses, and policymakers seeking to promote sustainable practices that are both environmentally responsible and economically viable.

An Investigation of the Barriers and Drivers for Implementing Green Supply Chain in Malaysian Food and Beverage SMEs: A Qualitative Perspective

The food and beverage (F&B) sector in Malaysia is experiencing rapid growth, largely driven by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). However, many Malaysian F&B companies are encountering challenges when it comes to adopting environmentally friendly practices to enhance their environmental performance. This research aims to pinpoint the obstacles that hinder the implementation of Green Supply Chain Management (GSCM) in the F&B industry and to identify the drivers that influence companies' adoption of GSCM initiatives. Data was gathered through semi-structured interviews with 10 individuals from five different F&B SMEs (Companies A, B, C, D, and E) using a qualitative methodology. The data was analyzed using ATLAS.ti version 10, and themes were identified through coding. The study's findings revealed that a lack of knowledge and information sharing presents the most significant barrier to GSCM implementation, as there is insufficient awareness and dissemination of green concepts and practices among SME employees and consumers. Information sharing is crucial for facilitating green activities and promoting collaboration within the supply chain. Additionally, green manufacturing was identified as the most important driver in encouraging environmentally friendly practices among the top five drivers. SME companies need to find a balance between production performance and meeting sustainability requirements. Understanding the barriers and drivers of Malaysian F&B SMEs will enable practitioners to make well-informed decisions regarding GSCM implementation, ultimately enhancing the performance of the F&B industry and ensuring a sustainable food supply.

Critical factors to adopt sustainable agrifood supply chain management in developing countries: The case of Ethiopian coffee industry

AbstractGlobal agrifood supply chains are under increasing pressure to address sustainability issues due to growing concerns. However, numerous organizations within the agrifood industry are struggling to incorporate sustainable supply chain management practices and address the concerns. Therefore, this research is designed to identify the key critical factors, such as drivers, enablers, and barriers to adopting sustainable practices. This study considers the Ethiopian coffee industry, which is an important sector not only for the Ethiopian economy but also for the global agrifood supply chain. To accomplish the objectives of this study, we applied a systematic literature review and empirical survey. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify critical factors for adopting sustainability in agrifood supply chains. An empirical survey was then undertaken in the Ethiopian coffee industry to rank the key critical factors. Hence, the study has revealed that economic and productivity improvement, cost effectiveness and improvement in the overall performance, and difficulty in mindset and cultural changes as the key critical factors that determine the adoption of sustainability initiatives from the perspectives of the Ethiopian coffee supply chain. The findings can be used as input by government regulatory bodies and policymakers to craft strategies and policies to adopt sustainability initiatives and ensure sustainable development. Furthermore, the research is expected to contribute to the existing literature by bringing in the perspective of suppliers in developing countries.

Integrating planetary health education into tertiary curricula: a practical toolbox for implementation.

To present a series of case studies from our respective countries and disciplines on approaches to implementing the Planetary Health Education Framework in university health professional education programs, and to propose a curriculum implementation and evaluation toolbox for educators to facilitate the adoption of similar initiatives in their programs. We emphasize the importance of applying an Indigenous lens to curriculum needs assessment, development, implementation, and evaluation. Case studies from Australia and United States were collated using a six-stage design-based educational research framework (Focus, Formulation, Contextualization, Definition, Implementation, Evaluation) for teaching planetary health and methods of curriculum evaluation. These components were then mapped to derive the curriculum implementation toolbox reflecting the six-stage design-based educational research framework. The case studies demonstrated different approaches to successful integration of the Planetary Health Education Framework in medicine, nursing, public health, and allied health disciplines. This integration often involved Indigenous perspectives on environmental stewardship, holistic health, and community well-being into the curriculum. The case studies also highlighted the importance of community engagement, cultural competency, and interdisciplinary collaboration in curriculum development. Findings from case studies were used to propose a curriculum implementation toolbox to assist educators in adapting and integrating planetary health education into their own programs. While valuable frameworks for teaching planetary health in health science programs exist, challenges remain in implementing these frameworks in real-world educational environments. The proposed curriculum implementation toolbox offers practical strategies and resources for educators to incorporate these principles into their teaching. Additionally, the case studies reported here contribute to the growing body of literature on planetary health education pertinent to addressing the triple planetary crisis.

Climate governance, growth opportunities, and innovation in addressing climate change: Empirical evidence from emerging countries

Emerging economies are often more vulnerable to the impacts of global warming, experiencing devastating floods and a collapse in agricultural production. This study, under the lens of resource dependence theory, aims to determine the role of climate governance and growth opportunities in driving the adoption of climate change mitigation initiatives by the leading listed companies in the 28 most important emerging economies from 2013 to 2022. The results indicate that climate governance mechanisms facilitate the development of innovative solutions to fight climate change. However, further efforts are required to mitigate the negative effects of growth opportunities and disruptive events.

Demand Response Strategies among Power Distribution Companies for Efficient Power System Management in Nigeria

This study investigates the demand response strategies employed by power distribution companies (DisCos) in Nigeria and their implications for efficient power system management. As the Nigerian power sector grapples with persistent inefficiencies and reliability issues, implementing effective demand response mechanisms emerges as a crucial strategy for improving overall performance. The research employs a quantitative methodology, utilizing a structured questionnaire administered to a sample of 316 stakeholders across various DisCos in Nigeria. Findings reveal a significant relationship between the implementation of demand response strategies and the efficiency of the power system (p < 0.05), indicating that such strategies can enhance operational efficiency. Moreover, the adoption of advanced metering infrastructure is shown to significantly improve the effectiveness of these strategies, underscoring the importance of technological integration in power distribution. However, the study also identifies key challenges faced by DisCos, such as regulatory hurdles and inadequate infrastructure, which hinder the adoption of demand response initiatives.

Determinants of digital technology adoption in innovative SMEs

Despite the increasing adoption of digital technology, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) continue to lag behind larger firms. This study integrates the technology, organization, and environment (TOE) framework with Rogers’ diffusion of innovation (DOI) theory to investigate the factors influencing SMEs’ digital technology adoption. Data from 419 SMEs was analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM), followed by artificial neural network (ANN) analysis to rank the importance of the variables identified.The PLS-SEM results show that technological, organizational, and environmental factors directly impact adoption. The supported variables include adoption costs, top management support, human resources, digital culture, and trading partner pressure. Some factors indirectly impact adoption through top management support. This study also found that SMEs’ international orientation moderates the relationship between digital culture and adoption behavior. The ANN results identify that the most important predictors, ranked from the most to the least influential, are digital culture, international orientation, top management support, trading partner pressure, human resources, and adoption costs.This research contributes to the theoretical discourse on technology adoption by integrating the TOE framework with Rogers’ DOI theory. It highlights that no single TOE element functions in isolation. The findings provide practical guidance for SME managers, stressing the need to improve organizational factors, such as, human resources, digital culture, and top management support. Governments may use these findings to identify ways to support SMEs’ digital technology adoption, particularly by offering subsidies to reduce costs, which remain a barrier.

Digital Transformation, Executive Incentives, and Bachelor's Education in Chinese A-share Listed Companies

This research investigates the interplay between digital transformation, executive incentives, and executive education in Chinese A-share listed corporations. Using a comprehensive dataset, this study examines how executives' educational backgrounds, specifically those with bachelor's degrees, influence their adoption of digital transformation initiatives. The findings highlight that CEOs with bachelor's degrees demonstrate higher adaptability to digital transformation, leveraging their exposure to contemporary educational curricula and technological advancements. Furthermore, the study explores various incentive systems, such as bonuses and stock options, which effectively motivate executives to implement digital strategies successfully.This research contributes by emphasizing the critical alignment of executive incentives with digital transformation goals. It underscores the importance of educational preparedness in equipping leaders with the requisite skills to navigate and lead in the digital era. These insights are crucial for policymakers and corporate boards aiming to enhance organizational performance through targeted executive development and robust incentive structures.

Nudging law enforcement: evidence from low priority initiatives

The effect of non-binding guidelines (nudges) on citizens’ compliance with law has been studied theoretically and empirically in behavioral law and economics. Less is known about the impact of non-binding guidelines on the behavior of law enforcement agents and prosecution. Our work fills this gap. We study whether non-binding guidelines affect law enforcement and prosecution practices when the guidelines are not necessarily aligned with legal actors’ preferences. Our empirical analysis focuses on the impact of the adoption of a low priority initiative (LPI) on police and prosecutor behavior in Los Angeles County. Our results suggest that following the introduction of an LPI there is a rise in the number of misdemeanor arrests, but not in the rate that misdemeanor marijuana offenses are dismissed. We conclude that law enforcement preferences have a counterbalancing effect given that police officers may have strong punitive preferences. Prosecutors do not appear to respond to non-binding guidelines as evidenced by no change in the rate of dismissing cases.

Factors Affecting Big Data Analytics Adoption in Small and Medium Enterprises

Factors Affecting Big Data Analytics Adoption in Small and Medium Enterprises

Stakeholders’ perception: E-Learning initiatives in school education of Rajasthan state in the course of COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic led to increased adoption of e-learning in academic institutions, leading to the adoption of digital learning initiatives in Rajasthan. Projects-like SMILE, ‘Shikshadarshan - Educational T-DD Rajasthan’, ‘Shikshavani - Education via Radio’, ‘Hawamahal- Joyful Saturday program’, and ‘YouTube Rajiv Gandhi Career Portal’ were implemented. This study aimed to understand stakeholders’ perceptions of e-learning initiatives in Rajasthan and the global transformation of the education system. A descriptive survey conducted on 308 stakeholders from five government schools in Dungarpur district. The study reveals that 89% of students in Rajasthan state use smartphones for online classes, using WhatsApp video links, e-Raksha apps, YouTube, and open learning sources like Google. However, students often need help with language problems in content provided through e-learning initiatives, possibly due to the absence of their local language. Teachers are aware of e-learning initiatives but must be fully aware of them. Many teachers believe digital teaching-learning approaches make teaching plans and assessments more complex than face-to-face teaching. Parents and community members agree that their children can adopt e-learning comfortably, but 63% are unsatisfied with e-learning during COVID-19. Most participants agree that face-to-face teaching is better than e-learning and that the focus should be on face-to-face learning. The government should consider local languages for online videos and live programs. The department should include training programs for online learning resources in post-service education and teacher training to implement effective online education.

Green Banking Initiatives in the Indian Banking Sector: A Study on the Digital Transformation of Banking Services

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the green banking initiatives in the Indian banking sector and their integration with digital transformation. It seeks to assess the environmental impact of banking operations, analyse sustainable practices, and provide insights for optimizing eco-friendly services. The purpose is to contribute valuable knowledge for enhancing environmental sustainability in the banking industry. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical framework of this study draws on the intersection of environmental economics, sustainable business practices, and digital transformation theories. It aims to analyse how green banking initiatives align with digital advancements, exploring economic and technological dimensions to understand their combined impact on the sustainability of the Indian banking sector. Design/ Methodology: This study employs a quantitative research design, surveying 311 banking customers in Madurai District, India. A structured questionnaire will gather data on customer perceptions of green banking initiatives and digital services. Statistical analysis, including regression analysis, will be utilized to discern correlations between customer preferences, sustainability perceptions, and the adoption of digital banking services. Findings: The study's findings reveal a positive correlation between the adoption of green banking initiatives and digital transformation in the Indian banking sector. Customers in Madurai District express a preference for eco-friendly practices, indicating a potential market for sustainable banking services. The study suggests opportunities for further integration of green practices within digital banking strategies. Originality: This study stands out for its novel exploration of the intersection between green banking initiatives and digital transformation within the Indian banking sector. The research uniquely investigates how these two domains synergize, providing original insights into sustainable practices and technological advancements, contributing to the evolving landscape of eco-friendly banking services in India.

Innovate! Accelerate! Evaluate! Harnessing the RE-AIM framework to examine the global dissemination of parenting resources during COVID-19 to more than 210 million people

BackgroundParents were at the forefront of responding to the needs of children during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study used the RE-AIM framework to examine the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance of a global inter-agency initiative that adapted evidence-based parenting programs to provide immediate support to parents.MethodsData were collected via short surveys sent via email, online surveys, and analysis of social media metrics and Google Analytics. Retrospective surveys with 1,303 parents and caregivers in 11 countries examined impacts of the resources on child maltreatment, positive relationship building, parenting efficacy, and parenting stress.ResultsThe parenting resources were translated into over 135 languages and dialects; reached an estimated minimum 212.4 million people by June 2022; were adopted by 697 agencies, organizations, and individuals; and were included in 43 national government COVID-19 responses. Dissemination via social media had the highest reach (n = 144,202,170, 67.9%), followed by radio broadcasts (n = 32,298,525, 15.2%), text messages (n = 13,565,780, 6.4%), and caseworker phone calls or visits (n = 8,074,787, 3.8%). Retrospective surveys showed increased parental engagement and play, parenting self-efficacy, confidence in protecting children from sexual abuse, and capacity to cope with stress, as well as decreased physical and emotional abuse. Forty-four organizations who responded to follow-up surveys in April 2021 reported sustained use of the resources as part of existing services and other crisis responses.ConclusionThis study highlights the importance of a) establishing an international collaboration to rapidly adapt and disseminate evidence-based content into easily accessible resources that are relevant to the needs of parents; b) creating open-source and agile delivery models that are responsive to local contexts and receptive to further adaptation; and c) using the best methods available to evaluate a rapidly deployed global emergency response in real-time. Further research is recommended to empirically establish the evidence of effectiveness and maintenance of these parenting innovations.

Breaking Barriers: Investigating Technology Adoption in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Among Low-Income Women Entrepreneurs in Malaysia

In Malaysia, the B40 segment, particularly low-income women entrepreneurs, faces distinct challenges in adopting technology within their businesses. This qualitative study explores the low uptake of technology adoption among these entrepreneurs to understand the underlying dynamics. By addressing the "what" and "why" of low technology adoption, the research aims to provide insights for fostering inclusivity and empowerment within Malaysia's entrepreneurial landscape. The study involved an in-depth focus group discussion with 25 women entrepreneurs from four states across Malaysia, utilizing thematic analysis with Atlas TI. Key findings reveal issues related to technology adoption based on TAM theory. The findings indicate that most entrepreneurs are integrating technology into their business operations, either through social media marketing, e-commerce platforms, cashless payment methods, online delivery services, and machines, regardless of whether they are located in rural or metropolitan areas. The majority of the respondent are utilizing technology through their social media marketing. These situations have arisen as a result of the impact of COVID-19, which has compelled all entrepreneurs to adopt technology, even at a minimal level. The majority use social media platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp for marketing and adopt online banking and cashless payment methods such as DuitNow QR Code, Touch 'n Go, Boost, Shopee Pay, and Sarawak Pay. Despite using online food delivery services like Food Panda and Grab Food, trust issues such as payment delays, non-payment by drivers, and high commission fees make these platforms less appealing. Additionally, entrepreneurs prefer traditional methods over machinery to maintain quality and struggle to meet e-commerce demand due to their small-scale production, limiting their ability to fully use technology for business growth and sustainability. The findings support the theoretical insights of the TAM model and suggest actionable strategies for fostering technology adoption and empowerment among low-income women entrepreneurs in Malaysia.

How do large corporations engage with startups? The rise of corporate service providers

ABSTRACT Due to the emergence of the digital economy, traditional corporate entrepreneurship (CE) forms (i.e. corporate incubators, corporate venture capital, and corporate accelerators) have become too heavy and resource-consuming. As such, large corporations need to adopt a lightweight and flexible approach to access startups’ knowledge. Many of them have started outsourcing the CE service, demanding it from specialised service providers. In this study, we document the rise of this new form of CE, i.e. corporate service providers. Building from 25 interviews with managers of Plug and Play and GELLIFY, we analyze how these two types of service providers work concretely. Moreover, we discuss how they differ from traditional CE forms. Drawing on additional 17 interviews with large corporations and startups that have interacted through these service providers, we discuss how corporate service providers differ from previous traditional CE forms in facilitating the adoption of lightweight initiatives among large corporations to access startups’ knowledge. Accordingly, we provide theoretical contributions to the CE literature.