Information Technology Research Articles

Information and communication technologies, financial inclusion and economic growth: evidence from high- and low-income countries

Purpose This study aims to assess the impact of information and communication technologies (ICT) and financial inclusion on economic growth. This study also examines whether ICT can be a determinant of financial inclusion. Moreover, this study provides new evidence concerning whether ICT can reduce the financial inclusion gap. Design/methodology/approach This study uses the country-level data over the period 2005–2019 and estimate using the dynamic and the static panel model. Findings The results show that the ICT and financial inclusion interaction variable substantially and positively impacts economic growth for only certain interaction variables. ICT is an essential determinant of financial inclusion and reduces some gaps. Originality/value This study contributes to the literature by considering whether ICT and financial inclusion impact economic growth in high- and low-income countries. The other contribution of this study is that ICT represents a determinant in promoting financial inclusion. The final contribution of this study is providing new evidence concerning whether ICT can reduce the financial inclusion gap so that financial access can increase, financial inclusion can develop and simultaneously encourage economic growth.

Rethinking and redesigning storage, packaging and distribution practices for food supply chain

PurposeThe study aims to add to the existing literature on food supply chains by specifically taking into the redesigning of the alignment of storage, packaging and distribution practices in the modern complex supply chain. The redesign of the food supply chain’s storage, distribution and packaging is a transformative endeavor ultimately aimed at enhancing efficiency, sustainability and reliability.Design/methodology/approachIn order to identify, classify and prioritize the main challenges, this study conducted an extensive analysis of the literature and experts’ opinions in the areas of academia, information technology and the food supply chain (FSC) using combined compromise solution method (CoCoSo) and complex proportional assessment (COPRAS).FindingsThe top three classes of key indicators revealed in this study are dynamic route optimization and on-demand delivery pods (RD4), implementation of active packaging with nanotechnology (RP3) and collaborative last-mile (RD2). The findings reveal that dynamic route optimization and on-demand delivery pods (RD4) and collaborative last-mile (RD2) are maintaining a balance between collaborative delivery networks through route optimization which is a very discussable theme in recent literature.Originality/valueThe research provides fresh insights into how perishable food shelf life parameters and the use of distribution networks within the short supply chain can be taken into consideration when redesigning the storage, packaging and distribution system for food supply chains.

Environmental Impact of Digital Technologies and Artificial Intelligence

Very often arguments are put forward that replacing in-person meetings by online events or using digital technologies to do collaborative research will lower the pressure on the environment (Spencer 2023). But is this actually true? The obvious impacts, such as the carbon footprint of using digital technologies, are often overlooked. The electricity (even if green alternatives exist) used to run and cool the ever-growing number of large data centers has been regularly cited (Monteclaro 2023) as the largest contributor to this impact. Recent studies (Bordage 2019), however, tend to show that other actors (mostly the users) in the domain of digital technologies, appear to have an even greater impact. Additionally, ethical considerations and habitat degradation issues resulting from mining for the components to build professional and personal digital devices contribute to the problems. The deployments of networks have also a non-negligible share in the calculation of the actual digital impact on the environement (Bordage 2019). The tremendous increase of generated data, information exchanges, algorithms to run digital applications due to the larger use of AI in all scientific fields, in all sectors of the policy making, industry and civil society will increase the environmental impact of digital technologies even more. However, depending on the purpose of the AI technology, if its usage can demonstrate a reduction of negative environmental impacts, mitigation solutions can be envisaged. For example, if AI allows better land planning or better identification of species, it could balance out the digital environmental impact. In terms of online versus in-person or hybrid meetings, the issue is not as easy as one may think. For in-person meetings, especially in topics like biodiversity information, almost everyone is using devices such as laptops, tablets or smartphones, even encouraged by the organizers and speakers, making live demos, or doing online polls requiring the use of digitial technologies (e.g., Mentimeter). Totally online meetings make heavy use of the networks, dataflows and devices, even if it can be argued that the impact of the flights is removed from the equation. Hybrid meetings combine both the impacts of fully in-person or fully online options, also encouraging local participants to interact with the online participants and potentially demultiplying the environemental impact even more. Mitigation aspects to take into account are the added value of social interactions, learning about localhost's culture and biodiversity, and input to the local economies and infrastructures to welcome business tourism for large conferences. Efforts made to make onsite meetings greener play an important role, by wisely choosing the location and how catering is handled with local products and diminishing the use of one-use-only cups and cutlery. The debate on which meeting options are the best, is far from being closed and will continue into the future. This presentation will show recent analyses conducted, among others, by the European Institutes for Sustainable IT (information technology), to demystify common assumptions on major responsibilities in terms of environmental impact or carbon footprints of digital technologies. Tips and tricks to lower everyone's overall digital impact will be provided as well as encouraging the actors in biodiversity information to sign the Sustainable IT charter or even act further to get the highest Sustainable IT label for their institutions.

Analisis Peran Media Sosial Dalam Meningkatkan Branding Wisata Jolotundo Glamping And Edu Park Nganjuk

This research aims to analyze the role of social media in enhancing the branding of Jolotundo Glamping and Edupark Nganjuk. The main challenges in improving tourism branding include competition with other destinations, the growth of global connectivity, information technology, and competition among destinations. These factors require effective marketing strategies. Additionally, changes in consumer trends and technology can affect the effectiveness of social media strategies. Social media has significant power in reaching a broad audience and influencing public perception of a destination. In the context of tourism, social media plays a crucial role in increasing widespread popularity and building a positive image of this destination. The data collection techniques used in this research include observation, interviews, and documentation. Data analysis is conducted using qualitative descriptive methods. The research findings show that social media can enhance the branding of Jolotundo Glamping and Edupark through the planning of forming a special social media team, selecting social media platforms, and engaging third parties. The implementation involves having a dedicated social media team, choosing Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and collaborating with third parties such as Niken Salindri and Woko Chanel. The impact of social media includes an increase in the number of tourists, a rise in social media engagement, and an increase in the diversity of visitor origins.

Factors Affecting the Use of ICT by Teachers at Nan Yang Technician College, China

Background and Aims: Nowadays, the application of information and communication technology in education is becoming increasingly widespread, which poses new requirements for the ICT application ability of teachers. The aim of this study is to explore: (1) The ICT ability level of teachers at Nan Yang Technician College; and (2) Factors affecting the ICT ability of teachers at Nan Yang Technician College. Methodology: The data was collected from 185 Chinese teachers from a technician school engaged by using the questionnaires and analyzed by Mean, standard deviation, and one-way ANOVA. Results: Research has found that: (1) The overall ICT application ability of teachers at Nan Yang Technician College is at a good level (M=3.56). From the five dimensions, only the evaluation and diagnosis dimensions are at a poor level (M=2.68; SD=0.92). The Technician literacy dimension (M=3.86; SD=0.65) and the learning and development dimension scored the highest (M=3.87; SD=0.62), both reaching a good level. The dimensions of planning and preparation (M=3.19; SD=0.64) and organization and management (M=3.35; SD=0.98) are at a moderate level. (2) There are significant differences in ICT application abilities among teachers of different age groups. The overall level of young vocational school teachers is higher than that of older teachers, especially in terms of planning and preparation, as well as organization and management. There is no significant difference in ICT application ability among teachers of different genders, educational levels, and teaching majors. Conclusion: The overall score of ICT application ability of teachers at Nanyang Technician College is at a good level, but it is relatively low compared to teachers from similar schools. The evaluation and diagnosis dimensions are at a poor level. In terms of influencing factors, age has a significant impact on the teachers of Nanyang Technician College. The ICT application ability score of older teachers is significantly lower than that of younger teachers. The ICT application ability of older teachers needs to be paid attention to. Other factors such as gender, education level, and the courses taught have no significant impact on the ICT application ability of teachers. Based on the analysis of research results, this study suggests that unique ICT enhancement strategies should be developed for different age groups of teachers. The development of learning activities should be based on the analysis of the teacher's situation, such as strengthening the evaluation and diagnostic abilities of teachers.

Exploring the Impact of After-Hours Work Connectivity on Employee Performance: Insights from a Job Crafting Perspective

With the leapfrog development of information and communication technology and the intensification of external competition among enterprises, after-hours work connectivity through communication devices has become a new norm in the workplace. While it offers certain conveniences, the constant connectivity it entails also imposes significant pressure on employees. How to comprehensively understand and rationally treat after-hours work connectivity has become an issue that organizations need to pay great attention to. Based on conservation of resources theory, this study analyzed 407 questionnaires to explore the “double-edged sword” effect of after-hours work connectivity on employee performance and analyzed the moderating effect of the psychological contract. The results indicate the following: (1) Proactive pathway: after-hours work connectivity promotes employees’ job crafting behaviors toward approach-oriented adjustments, thereby enhancing job performance. (2) Passive pathway: after-hours work connectivity encourages employees’ job crafting behaviors toward avoidance-oriented adjustments, leading to decreased job performance. (3) The psychological contract positively moderates the relationship between after-hours work connectivity and approach-oriented job crafting and negatively moderates the relationship between after-hours work connectivity and avoidance-oriented job crafting, regulating both the positive and negative coping pathways. The research findings contribute to assisting organizations in adopting a dialectical perspective towards and effectively utilizing after-hours work connectivity. This aids in achieving a balance between organizational effectiveness and employee well-being, seeking a mutually beneficial work paradigm, and providing managerial recommendations to promote sustainable organizational development.

Using Deep Learning, Optuna, and Digital Images to Identify Necrotizing Fasciitis

Necrotizing fasciitis, which is categorized as a medical and surgical emergency, is a life-threatening soft tissue infection. Necrotizing fasciitis diagnosis primarily relies on computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound scans, surgical biopsy, blood tests, and expert knowledge from doctors or nurses. Necrotizing fasciitis develops rapidly, making early diagnosis crucial. With the rapid progress of information technology and systems, in terms of both hardware and software, deep learning techniques have been employed to address problems in various fields. This study develops an information system using convolutional neural networks (CNNs), Optuna, and digital images (CNNOPTDI) to detect necrotizing fasciitis. The determination of the hyperparameters in convolutional neural networks plays a critical role in influencing classification performance. Therefore, Optuna, an optimization framework for hyperparameter selection, is utilized to optimize the hyperparameters of the CNN models. We collect the images for this study from open data sources such as Open-i and Wikipedia. The numerical results reveal that the developed CNNOPTDI system is feasible and effective in identifying necrotizing fasciitis with very satisfactory classification accuracy. Therefore, a potential future application of the CNNOPTDI system could be in remote medical stations or telemedicine settings to assist with the early detection of necrotizing fasciitis.

From Software Management to Software Ecosystem Governance: A Bibliographic Review on Software Governance Practices Within Organizations and Their Evolution

Objective: The objective of this study is to map the publications that deal with IT Governance and the main aspects of Software development, acquisition and maintenance, identifying when the concepts related to software governance emerged and the main search sources for publications on the subject, highlighting the central issues of each of the emerging contexts. Theoretical Framework: A theoretical framework was used on the organizational structure of IT governance areas, focused on directing, analyzing and monitoring software development, differentiating the typical management activities designed by Juiz and Colomo-Palacios (2020). Method: The methodology adopted for this research comprises a qualitative-quantitative approach, using bibliometrics, bibliographic analysis and the application of a fractional authorship algorithm to identify the main authors to publish on the topic. Data collection was done using a set of search databases such as the Web of Science database and the Scopus database. Results and Discussion: The results obtained revealed the main authors identified in each of the databases searched, as well as the central themes of the searched themes, indicating the first appearance of each term and its main article. It is also possible to analyze the academic production related to each of these themes. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research indicate fields of research that have become popular, bringing perspectives for future work, as well as fields that are being poorly explored in software development governance and management. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the area of ​​Information Technology management as the main themes studied in governance and management of software development formalize essential concepts for these fields of research and promote process improvement.

The Integration of Machine Learning in information technologies: Future Trends and predictions

Hypertension and high cholesterol can cause heart attack and heart failure. Therefore, preventative measures to effectively anticipate, diagnose, and control high hypertension and cholesterol levels are needed to reduce myocardial infarction risk and offer more effective treatment alternatives. The study used new machine learning models (SVM, LR, RF, and NB) to predict cardiac illnesses, which were not used in a prior study. The study utilized four new machine learning models (SVM, LR, RF, and NB) to predict cardiac diseases, which had not been previously studied. The study used a 1970–2023 dataset of UK males with cardiac issues. Results showed that machine learning methods have gained popularity and can predict cholesterol and hypertension. The study shows that machine learning algorithms lower hypertension and cholesterol. Machine learning techniques must be improved and tested on larger datasets.

Latent Information in the Evolving Energy Structure

Recent studies indicate that Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology, characterized by its integration of information and communication technology attributes, exerts a multifaceted influence on the energy system. The authors employ Difference-in-Differences (DID) and Triple-Difference (DDD) models to investigate the effects of AI. The research initially demonstrates that AI may exhibit dual attributes of constraining energy structure. Specifically, the rapid development of AI tends to increase the proportion of fossil fuel-based electricity generation while optimizing the consumption of renewable energy. Furthermore, the degradation of energy structure stems from the surge in electricity consumption by AI, which the renewable energy consumption capacity is unable to satisfy. Lastly, industrial agglomeration effects and the construction of the digital economy have positive impacts on development of renewable energy; technological innovation aids in mitigating the negative shocks to the energy structure. This study provides a new perspective on the role of AI technology in energy transition.

Exploring Edible Insects: From Sustainable Nutrition to Pasta and Noodle Applications—A Critical Review

Edible insects provide an alternative source of high-quality proteins, essential lipids, minerals, and vitamins. However, they lack the acceptability and consumption rates of more common staple foods. In contrast, pasta and noodles are globally appreciated foods that are consumed across various cultures. These products contribute greatly to the population’s energy intake but generally lack essential nutrients. Recently, edible insects have gained in popularity due to their numerous benefits, both environmental and nutritional. Current research indicates that incorporating edible insect ingredients into pasta and noodle formulations enhances their nutritional quality by increasing protein and fiber content and reducing carbohydrates. However, adding new ingredients to enrich common foods often carries technological and sensory challenges, such as changes in processing parameters, texture, flavor, and appearance. Technology assessment, scientific research, information campaigns, and public policies can help overcome these issues. This review aims to summarize the benefits of entomophagy (the consumption of insects as food) for sustainability, nutrition, and health; highlight the potential of pasta and noodles as carriers of nutritious and bioactive ingredients, including insects; and critically address the advancements in insect-enriched pasta and noodle technology, identifying current challenges, knowledge gaps, and opportunities.

Investigating the Association of Computer Vision Syndrome with Forward-Headed and Kyphotic Posture Among Undergraduate Information Technology Student

Introduction: Computers and visual display devices have become indispensable in our daily lives. The frequent use of these devices has led to the emergence of computer vision syndrome (CVS). Coupled with poor ergonomics, musculoskeletal diseases are on the rise due to excessive computer use. Accordingly, this study investigates the association between CVS and forward-headed and kyphotic posture in undergraduate IT students. Materials and Methods: We conducted an observational cross-sectional study involving 300 undergraduate IT students. We used a modified CVS questionnaire to assess CVS and the Kinovea software to diagnose forward head posture. We also used the occiput wall distance test to assess kyphosis. Results: In this study, a majority of undergraduate students (88%, 264 out of 300) exhibited CVS, resulting in forward head posture and kyphosis. There was a significant association between CVS, forward head posture, and kyphosis. Conclusion: Computer vision syndrome is strongly associated with forward head posture and kyphosis. Prolonged computer device usage leads to changes in body posture, affecting the neck, shoulders, elbows, wrists/hands, upper back, and lower back.

Data and IT Systems Security in Contemporary Organizations

ABSTRACT Data and IT systems security is a critical aspect and plays a significant role in protecting an organization’s business. Organizations must safeguard their information and assets to sustain their value and reputation. Security is essential to information systems because it concerns personal and confidential data belonging to users or companies. The study aims to indicate how enterprises in Poland guarantee the security of data and IT systems, as well as to estimate the complexity of this phenomenon. We have confirmed that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) organizations with a lower level of computerization generally invest fewer resources and possess less expertise in establishing and maintaining IT security policies and strategies.

Leveraging Information Technologies for Organisational Learning and Knowledge Management: Enhancing Access and Educational Outcomes for Rural Students

PurposeThis study investigates the role of information technologies in enhancing organisational learning and knowledge management in South African rural universities, with the goal of improving access and educational outcomes for rural students. The research focuses on how digital tools can create more equitable learning environments and address the unique challenges faced by rural institutions. Study design/methodology/approachA scoping review of literature from 2000 to 2024 was conducted, employing the Diffusion of Innovation theory and Social Pedagogy Justice framework to analyse the impact of digital platforms on organisational learning and knowledge management in rural universities. The study examines how these tools can help bridge the gap between rural and urban students and address the challenges of limited resources and digital divides. FindingsThe study finds that information technologies can significantly improve organisational learning processes and knowledge management in rural universities by providing tools that promote inclusion and participation. Digital technologies, when thoughtfully implemented, can help reduce educational disparities by enhancing access to resources and supporting collaboration between students in urban and rural areas. The research suggests that a strategic approach to technology adoption, tailored to the local context, is key to achieving more equitable educational outcomes. Originality/valueThis research provides valuable insights for policymakers and educational leaders on how to leverage information technologies to advance social justice in education. By focusing on rural universities in South Africa, the study highlights the importance of addressing infrastructural and resource challenges while using digital tools to foster inclusion and equity. The findings offer practical strategies for enhancing the effectiveness of digital platforms in improving educational outcomes for traditionally underserved communities.

Information Technologies and Artificial Intelligence in the Training of Future Teachers (Experience of the Department of Music Art at H.S. Skovoroda Kharkiv National Pedagogical University)

Information Technologies and Artificial Intelligence in the Training of Future Teachers (Experience of the Department of Music Art at H.S. Skovoroda Kharkiv National Pedagogical University)

Digital Transformation and Innovation of the News Media

Under the background of globalization and the rapid development of information technology, the digital transformation and innovation of news media have become an important trend of the industry. Traditional media adapt to the new audience needs and market environment through digital transformation, and gradually transform to diversified content production, personalized recommendation, multi-platform distribution and paid subscription mode. Many media organizations, such as the New York Times and the BBC, have explored the possibilities of content innovation and dissemination through artificial intelligence, big data and virtual reality. However, digital transformation also faces challenges such as information authenticity, privacy security and technology dependence. In the future, with the further development of new technologies, news media will continue to explore AI-driven news production, immersive reporting and blockchain applications to build a more innovative, efficient and credible news ecosystem.

Second Language Teaching in the Digital World: Why We Need Digital Technologies?

Technology and science are developing at an unprecedented pace nowadays, and digital technology in particular has largely improved the tools and ways available to investigate new pedagogical approaches. The paper demonstrates how the advent of contemporary information and communication technology has influenced second language teaching, resulting in a shift away from the conventional teacher-centered and text-bound classrooms into interactive and student-centered paradigms. Also, the large potential and unique advantages of digital technologies have been analyzed, compared with some difficulties teachers and students meet during second language learning process in traditional language classes. However, digital tools are not a panacea which also require careful design and consideration. Therefore, the paper also puts forward several practical ways to bring the largest efficacy of digital technology on second language learning.

Mundane Technologies and Community Informatics

In this short paper, I explore how my academic journey through Social Informatics (SI) and Science and Technology Studies (STS) has guided me toward the field of Community Informatics (CI), emphasizing the critical distinctions among these disciplines. While SI and STS primarily address the theoretical dimensions of science and technology within various institutional and cultural contexts, CI centers on the practical applications of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) within specific communities. Bringing this interdisciplinary foundation and drawing on a decade of critical ethnographic research, I present the framework of "Mundane Technology," which investigates how marginalized individuals appropriate everyday technologies to navigate and resist systemic oppression. This framework, which was originally introduced in my book “Technology of the Oppressed” (2022, MIT Press), is grounded in a decolonial perspective and enhances our understanding of how ordinary artifacts, processes, and spaces contribute to the agency and aspirations of oppressed communities. This framework also critiques traditional utilitarian approaches in Information Systems and ICT for Development, advocating for a shift towards recognizing the intangible benefits of technology in marginalized contexts. Ultimately, it underscores the importance of incorporating these narratives into CI research, reinforcing democratic values and expanding the scope of technology studies to include the voices and experiences of those historically excluded from power and representation.

Farmers' Participation in Messenger‐Based Social Groups And Its Effects on Performance in Irrigated Areas of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan

ABSTRACTThe penetration of information and communication technologies (ICTs) in farming communities is increasing the use of smartphone‐based instant messaging apps. Despite this, the reasons behind participation and the impact on farm productivity in developing countries remain unexplored. This study uses survey data of cotton growers in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan to explore factors explaining participation in social media groups and its impact on farm performance. The results show that the factors and benefits differ across these two countries. Participation in social media groups has a positive effect on cotton yields in both countries, but increases revenue only in Kazakhstan. We discuss possible reasons for contrasting results and policy implications for improving agricultural extension and advisory services in Central Asia. Scaling up smartphone‐based e‐extension should focus on younger, more educated farmers. Emphasizing associated economic benefits and fostering decision‐making autonomy among farmers will be crucial for creating conducive environment for benefiting from e‐extension services.

Does cybercrime affect brand loyalty to deposit money banks in Nigeria

The financial service industry, especially banking, has benefited greatly from the introduction of information technology. The technology has allowed them to offer a wide range of electronic banking services that have expanded scope of participants. This, however, has exposed the banks to cybercrime risk, posing serious threat to their survival. The study aimed to determine how the brand loyalty of the banks’ customers is affected by cybercrime associated to the use of e-banking platforms. The study used self-structured and administered questionnaires to gather primary data from 200 clients from (10) deposit money banks (DMBs) and examine the effects of cybercrime on customers brand loyalty. A regression analysis was performed to investigate the relationship between customer brand loyalty and the considered cybercrime activities. The finding identifies a strong inverse association between brand loyalty and financial losses brought on by cybercrime. Also, the evidence shows that card theft significantly reduces brand loyalty. The study further discovers that recurring security vulnerabilities significantly reduce brand loyalty and lastly, the paper demonstrates that the most notable adverse effect on brand loyalty was caused by identity theft. The study's conclusions demonstrate a strong and unfavourable correlation between consumer brand loyalty and cybercrime. The article offers comprehensive recommendations, including policies, strategies, and interventions that show how cybercrime can be combated to reduce the risk of thefts in the banking sector.