Business Owners Research Articles

Do undergraduate art and design students’ entrepreneurship skill sets influence their intention to own a business?

PurposeDrawing on a competency-based approach, this empirical study explores whether art and design students’ entrepreneurship skill sets (technical, managerial and entrepreneurial skills) influence their intention to own a business and whether gender and/or business ownership influence their entrepreneurship skill sets.Design/methodology/approachA total of 204 respondents were selected using a random sampling technique. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including independent sample tests and two-way ANOVA.FindingsThe independent samples test revealed interesting results regarding art and design students’ entrepreneurship skill sets, distinguishing between those who own businesses and those who do not. The two-way ANOVA analysis indicated that certain factors significantly affect art and design students’ entrepreneurship skill sets while others do not.Practical implicationsThe findings suggest that higher education institutions should reconsider their curricular frameworks to better equip art and design graduates with not only artistic skills but also robust entrepreneurial competencies based on targeted training programs that could be developed to enhance the managerial and entrepreneurial skills among art and design students.Originality/valueThis study addresses a gap in the literature by empirically examining the impact of entrepreneurship skill sets on the art and design students’ business ownership and investigating whether business ownership and/or gender influence their entrepreneurship skill sets, offering valuable insights for educational institutions and policymakers.

Effectuation Principles as an Entrepreneurial Strategy during a Crisis in the Hotel Industry in Indonesia

The principle of effectuation is a fascinating concept in entrepreneurship that emphasizes a flexible and adaptive approach to business creation. This approach is particularly beneficial in unpredictable contexts, encouraging entrepreneurs to leverage their current resources and networks. The aim of this study is to identify the entrepreneurial strategies employed by boutique hotels, grounded in five principles of effectuation, to navigate a crisis. This study utilizes semi-structured interviews as the primary method for collecting data on crisis management among business owners or senior executives. The respondents in this study comprised ten decision-makers from seven boutique hotels, including owners and top-level management. The findings indicate that boutique hotel entrepreneurs employed effectuation principles as an entrepreneurial strategy during a crisis, enabling the hotels to navigate the challenges effectively. This study's findings will enhance existing research in the hotel sector and elucidate entrepreneurial reactions to crises.

Advancing financial inclusion through digital payment platforms in emerging markets

Advancing financial inclusion in emerging markets has become a critical focus for economic development, and digital payment platforms are playing a transformative role in this process. These platforms offer a scalable solution to bridge the gap between the unbanked population and formal financial services, enabling individuals and businesses to access affordable and secure financial products. The rise of mobile technology and widespread internet penetration have provided the infrastructure for digital payments to thrive, particularly in regions where traditional banking systems are underdeveloped. Key enablers include mobile money services, fintech innovations, and supportive regulatory frameworks that promote adopting digital financial solutions. Digital payment platforms facilitate faster, more efficient transactions, reduce the reliance on cash, and open up opportunities for marginalized groups, including women and small business owners, to participate in the formal economy. They also enhance financial literacy by offering accessible financial education tools, which empower users to manage their finances more effectively. However, challenges such as limited digital literacy, regulatory barriers, cybersecurity risks, and the digital divide must be addressed to maximize the potential of these platforms. Emerging markets have witnessed significant success stories, particularly in Africa and Southeast Asia, where mobile money platforms like M-Pesa and GCash have expanded financial access to millions. These platforms contribute to financial inclusion and stimulate economic growth by integrating more people into the financial system. Moving forward, collaborative efforts between governments, private sector stakeholders, and development organizations are essential to ensuring that digital payment platforms continue to drive financial inclusion sustainably and equitably.. Keywords: Financial Inclusion, Digital Payment Platforms, Emerging Markets, Mobile Money, Fintech, Unbanked Population, Economic Development, Financial Literacy, Digital Financial Services, Mobile Technology.

Disentangling the gender-differentiated determinants of home-based self-employment choices in Nigeria

Abstract Understanding gender disparities in home-based self-employment (HBS) and their links to homeownership and socioeconomic factors is crucial for advancing sustainable development goals (SDGs) in Sub-Saharan Africa, especially Nigeria. This study uses data from the 2010/2011, 2012/13, 2015/16, and 2018/19 waves of the Nigerian General Household Survey (GHS). It employs random effect probit regression, the LASSO method for identifying predictors, and the Blinder–Oaxaca decomposition technique to analyse gender differences in nonlinear binary outcomes. The results show that female business owners are more likely to engage in HBS compared to males, highlighting the importance of gender equality (SDG 5) and decent work (SDG 8). While male entrepreneurs are mainly driven by profit, females prioritise balancing paid and unpaid work, reflecting motivations beyond profit within heterodox economics. Significant gender-differentiated impacts are observed in relation to monthly rent, post-secondary education, dwelling space, energy, and regional locations. Notably, the presence of children significantly increases female involvement in HBS, a trend not seen among males. Marriage also influences female participation, suggesting that marital circumstances and economic benefits play a role. These findings highlight the need for policies addressing gender-specific constraints, challenging traditional gender roles, and promoting inclusive human development within the SDG framework.

Operational Challenges of Small Scale Enterprises in Namakkal District

The research work examined the operational problems those hinder the efficacy and productivity of the SSEs in the jurisdiction of Namakkal District. This scientific investigation is of an empirical nature and it is based on the data that was personally gathered by following a schedule of interviews. Through formal conversation with the business owners of SSEs every attempt has been made to determine the accuracy of the material that has been gathered. In order to accomplish the goals of the research, a field survey was carried out in order to collect primary data. For the purpose of selecting samples, the type of sampling known as simple random sampling was used. The samples that were selected were comprised of business owners of SSEs from the Namakkal District. In each step of the selection process, the lottery method was used as a simple random sampling methodology. The sample size of the study was fixed to be 147 based on the statistical tools that were used in the study. The collected main data that was obtained from the sample small scale units was performed as part of the analysis of the data. The data have been categorised, and cross tabulation has been performed in accordance with the various attributes of the variables. The study has used confirmatory factor analysis using the AMOS software to analyse the challenges faced by the SSE in Namakkal District. The SSEs operating in the study area are highly impacted by the challenges of skilled labor source and lack of appropriate infrastructure to operate their business which has to be resolved by stakeholders involved in policy making.

The relationship between innovation capability and profitability: The mediating role of enterprise risk management in Amman Stock Exchange (ASE)

In the face of growing competition, industrial and commercial firms need more effective strategies to gain competitive advantages. This study investigates the role of enterprise risk management (ERM) as a mediator in highlighting the significance of innovation capability on profitability in industrial and commercial firms listed on the Amman Stock Exchange (ASE). Data were collected from 244 respondents using a standardized questionnaire and analyzed with SPSS software. The results indicate that the innovation capability has an impact on profitability in industrial and commercial firms, as well as their ERM practices. Additionally, ERM mediates the relationship between innovation capability and profitability. Firms that adopt distinctive innovation strategies tend to maintain formal ERM strategies, which in turn enhance market superiority and profitability. This research offers some significant managerial ramifications that may be essential for business owners, executives, and decision-makers involved in the development of firms.

Digital divide and digital engagement in small business owners: an examination of survey data

ABSTRACT This paper examines the digital divide among Small Business Owners (SBO). Most of the existing literature has focused on the digital divide among individuals and communities with little attention given to SBOs. This paper uses the Resources and Appropriation (RA) theory to explore the digital divide in SBOs. Data is analyzed from a survey of residents in the seventh-largest city in the US. The analysis indicates that many characteristics of the digital divide persist when comparing SBOs. However, when controlling for factors such as digital engagement, business characteristics, and expected revenue, demographic variables like race, ethnicity, education, gender, age, and household income did not significantly affect the level of digital engagement or expected revenue of SBOs. The findings support RA theory by demonstrating that access and the reasons for using the Internet play a crucial role among SBOs. The results emphasize the need to create opportunities for minority-owned small businesses to thrive in the digital age.

Integrating Equity in Public Sector Data-Driven Decision Making: Exploring the Desired Futures of Underserved Stakeholders

Public sector agencies aim to innovate not just for efficiency but also to enhance equity. Despite the growing adoption of data-driven decision-making systems in the public sector, efforts to integrate equity as a primary goal often fall short. This typically arises from inadequate early-stage involvement of underserved stakeholders and prevalent misunderstandings concerning the authentic meaning of equity from these stakeholders' perspectives. Our research seeks to address this gap by actively involving undersevered stakeholders in the process of envisioning the integration of equity within public sector data-driven decisions, particularly in the context of a building department in a Northeastern mid-sized U.S. city. Applying a speed dating method with storyboards, we explore diverse equity-centric futures within the realm of local business development, a domain where small businesses, particularly women-and minority-owned businesses, historically confront inequitable distribution of public services. We explored three essential aspects of equity: monitoring equity, resource allocation prioritization, as well as information and equity. Our findings illuminate the complexities of integrating equity into data-driven decisions, offering nuanced insights about the needs of stakeholders. We found that attempts to monitor and incorporate equity goals into public sector decision-making can unexpectedly backfire, inadvertently sparking community apprehension and potentially exacerbating existing inequities. Small business owners, including those identifying as women-and minority-owned, advocated against the use of demographic-based data in equity-focused data-driven decision-making in the public sector, instead emphasizing factors such as community needs, application complexity, and uncertainties inherent in small businesses. Drawing from these insights, we propose design implications to assist designers of public sector data-driven decision-making systems to better accommodate equity considerations.

Implementation of the UMKM Program in Poverty Alleviation di Desa Padengo Kabupaten Pohuwato

This research discusses the implementation of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (UMKM) program in efforts to alleviate poverty in Padengo Village, Pohuwato Regency. Padengo Village is one area that still faces significant challenges related to poverty. In this context, the UMKM program is one of the strategies adopted by the Padengo Village Government to improve community welfare and reduce poverty levels. This research uses a qualitative approach by collecting data through in-depth interviews with various stakeholders, including government officials, UMKM business owners, and local community members. Data was also obtained through direct observation and documentation studies. The results of the research show that the implementation of the UMKM program in Padengo Village has had a positive impact on poverty alleviation efforts. These programs have encouraged local economic growth, created new jobs, and provided training and support for UMKM to improve their skills and productivity. However, this research also identified several challenges and obstacles faced in implementing UMKM programs, including bureaucracy complex issues, lack of access to capital and markets, and lack of understanding of the benefits and opportunities of the UMKM program among the community. Based on these findings, several recommendations are proposed to increase the effectiveness of the UMKM program in alleviating poverty in Padengo Village. Among other things, simplifying administrative procedures, increasing access to capital and markets, participatory approaches in program planning and implementation, as well as increasing public understanding and awareness of the importance of UMKM in overcoming poverty.

Making the Leap: From Law Enforcement and Marketing to Business Owners

Making the Leap: From Law Enforcement and Marketing to Business Owners

Application of Android-Based Applications to Make It Easier to Record Micro Business Finances (Quuena Store Case Study)

The current development of information and communication technology has many benefits for human life, not only in the social but cultural, educational and economic fields. One use in the economic sector is in the financial services sector, namely the existence of a digital financial recording system in the form of an Android-based application. Financial recording is the process of recording transactions for a period, where this recording report will be used to make decisions and monitor the business being carried out.This research was conducted on MSMEs in Singajaya Village, the object of this research is business actors engaged in products and services, namely "Queena Store" which is located at Jl. CITRA No.12 Block XX Singajaya Village, this research is based on the problem where financial recording at the Queena Store still uses a manual system because the business owner does not understand technology. The purpose of this research is to help business actors implement a new accounting bookkeeping system and analyze its use in using the Android-based financial recording application, namely Akuntansiku, so that the recording process can be easier, faster and have accurate results. Tags research method is descriptive qualitative, which aims to provide a systematic understanding based on facts as it is about how to implement financial records based on the Android-based Akuntansiku application at the Queena Store.

Business concentration, ownership structure and business group performance: An S-shaped hypothesis

Abstract Drawing on resource-based and agency theories, this study examines the effects of business concentration and ownership structure on business group performance. On the basis of panel data (2004–2018) from the top 100 Taiwanese business groups investing globally, this study finds an S-shaped relationship between business concentration and business group performance with the interaction of advantages and costs at different levels. Performance increases when there is little business concentration, decreases when there is a moderate amount and increases again when there is a high level of business concentration. In addition, this study hypothesizes that ownership structure has a different moderating effect on this relationship. The family business group has a positive moderating effect; however, outsider direct and manager ownership have no significant moderating role. These findings have important theoretical and managerial implications for business groups.

THE PULSE OF THE CITY: 'GOUARIR' STREET AND THE EVOLUTION OF PUBLIC SPACES IN ALGERIA

The transformation of a neighborhood street into a city-wide street reflects the adaptation of urban forms to new usages, evolving as a space of urbanity where animation and social activity develop. Often located on the public domain, the street differs from the layout of plots, which is constantly changing, its underground infrastructure transforming as networks evolve. In this regard, the concept of the street needs to be assessed in light of the transformations induced by the new urban trends in Algeria. The study of the various urban and architectural transformations of “rue Gouarir” in Bordj Bou Arreridj and its evolution enables us to examine both urban recompositions as an expression of changing patterns of life, and the significance of place in contemporary Algerian cities. This study, conducted from an interdisciplinary perspective involving architecture, urban planning and economics. The aim is to assess the urban transformations and dynamics affecting this street and the people who live on it and build it. In order to better understand the dynamics of street transformation into public space, an analytical method mainly founded on socio-spatial investigation was employed. As a result, “Rue Gouarir” is overseen by community residents and business proprietors, with a conspicuous lack of involvement from local authorities. The interactions within “Rue Gouarir” have substantially transformed the surrounding area, propelling it to become a sought-after and attractive district within the city.

Strategy for Improving Business Performance in Micro and Small Enterprises through Innovation and Digitalization

This study aims to examine strategies for enhancing business performance in micro and small enterprises (MSEs) through the integration of innovation and digitalization. In an era where digital transformation has become critical for competitiveness, MSEs face unique challenges due to limited resources, constrained access to technology, and often limited technical expertise. Using a qualitative approach through library research and literature review, this study synthesizes current research on the role of innovation and digital adoption in boosting productivity, expanding market reach, and improving operational efficiencies in MSEs. Findings reveal that innovation and digitalization not only facilitate access to broader customer bases but also enable cost-effective marketing and streamlined operations. Additionally, the analysis indicates that overcoming barriers such as technology adoption costs and skill gaps is essential for successful digital transformation in MSEs. Supportive policies, digital literacy training, and partnerships with technology providers emerge as critical components to foster a conducive environment for these enterprises. The study contributes to the ongoing discourse by identifying key success factors for MSEs embarking on digital and innovative transformations. Furthermore, it provides recommendations for policy makers, business owners, and stakeholders to enhance MSE resilience and competitiveness in a digitalized economy. This research underscores the importance of aligning digital strategies with business goals to ensure sustainable growth and adaptation in a rapidly evolving market landscape.

Analisis Efektifitas Distribusi Produk Guna Meminimalisir Bullwhip Effect dengan Menggunakan Metode Peramalan pada Distributor PT. Kosmetika Global Indonesia

The bullwhip effect phenomenon occurs due to differences in demand patterns between distributors and retailers, causing overstock. This happened to Distributor PT. INDONESIAN GLOBAL COSMETICS where companies experience overstock and sometimes stock shortages, due to information distortion between companies, distributors and retailers due to different demand predictions. Therefore, the author conducted research to minimize the bullwhip effect phenomenon using the forecasting method in Microsoft Excel software. The data used in this research is demand and sales data for the period July 2023 to June 2024 for facial wash beauty products. Data processing is carried out by calculating the bullwhip effect value for the product. Next, carry out forecasting calculations. Then a comparison of the bullwhip effect values ​​was carried out as an improvement with this forecasting method. Furthermore, the results obtained from this research are the magnitude of the bullwhip effect in the PT Distributor supply chain. INDONESIAN GLOBAL COSMETICS has a value of 1.012 and is greater than 1, which means there has been a bullwhip effect in the observed supply chain. From the results of the analysis, it is known that the causes of the bullwhip effect include the absence of a user system and strategy in forecasting needs, unmeasured inventory or shortages of inventory, fluctuating prices, order sizes and grace periods for order fulfillment, as well as estimated inventory results in the following month of 992 .71 pcs with a minimum of 929.40 pcs and a maximum of 1056.02 pcs. Ways that may be effective in reducing the bullwhip effect that occur include managing product availability well, namely by implementing controlled forecasting, selling product orders and also the accuracy of information from product sales so that business owners will easily calculate forecasting values ​​for the coming period.

Civil Law in the Context of Inheritance: Drafting a Validand Functioning Will

This study aims to analyze the legal responsibility of business owners in the case of work accidents and the implications of existing regulations on worker protection. Using a normative juridical approach, this study identifies and analyzes the legal provisions that govern the responsibilities of business owners based on applicable legislation, including the Manpower Law and related government regulations. Data was collected through literature studies that included legal literature, official documents, and analysis of court decisions relevant to work accident cases. The results of the study show that business owners have a significant responsibility in maintaining occupational safety, where a good understanding of regulations and the implementation of safety policies greatly affects the compliance of business owners. The study also identified that there are obstacles for business owners, especially small-scale ones, in meeting their legal obligations related to occupational safety. Therefore, this study recommends increased socialization regarding occupational safety regulations, as well as support for business owners to better understand and fulfill their legal obligations. It is hoped that the results of this research can contribute to the development of labor laws that are more responsive and effective in protecting workers' rights, as well as creating a safer work environment

Green Innovation for Enhanced Competitiveness and Financial Performance: A Study of Ultra-Micro and Micro Craft Businesses in Indonesia

This study investigates the relationship between green innovation, competitiveness, and financial performance in ultra-micro and micro craft businesses in West Java, Indonesia. Using a quantitative exploratory approach, data were collected via structured surveys from 403 craft business units, involving both business owners and managers. The survey employed a Likert scale to assess green innovation, competitiveness, and financial performance. Partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyze the data. The findings reveal that business competitiveness mediates the impact of green innovation on financial performance. However, green innovation has no significant effect on financial performance. Additionally, business size significantly moderates the relationship between competitiveness and financial performance, with larger businesses better able to leverage competitive advantages for financial success. The study recommends that craft businesses invest in sustainable practices and scale up operations to enhance their competitiveness and achieve long-term financial growth. These insights are valuable for policymakers and business owners alike.

Evaluasi dan Perancangan Model Bisnis UMKM Miss Bluder dengan Business Model Canvas

Miss Bluder is an MSME that sells bluder bread in the city of Bandung. In recent times, Miss Bluder has experienced a significant decline in sales. This is due to limitations in human resource management, suboptimal partnerships, and lack of effectiveness in the sales media used. This research aims to evaluate and design a new business model for Miss Bluder using the Business Model Canvas method. The data used included current business models, customer profiles from interviews, as well as business environment data from literature studies and online research. A SWOT analysis was carried out to formulate an improvement strategy, followed by the design of a Value Proposition Canvas, Channels, and Customer Relationships. After the business model design is completed, verification, financial simulation, and validation processes are carried out through evaluations and interviews with business owners. With the implementation of the new business model, it is hoped that Miss Bluder can overcome the decline in sales, improve business performance, and strengthen its position in the market.

Oral Histories of Social, Cultural, and Environmental Changes in Saudi Arabia Before and After Saudi Aramco

Saudi Aramco’s influence upon the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia cannot be overstated. After the discovery of oil in 1938, a nationwide metamorphosis began to infiltrate desert communities, sleepy fishing villages, and traditional urban centres ultimately influencing the people and their environments in unimaginable ways. Becoming one of the world’s largest oil producers has meant the loss and/or transformation of traditional ways of life. Shepherds, pearl divers, fishermen, and farmers are today’s business owners, executives, and international leaders. How could the development of a single company influence a country and its populace so dramatically? Besides the financial gains, how were individuals, families, and ecosystems affected? What were some of the personal challenges experienced by Saudi citizens? In this paper, the authors address these questions and others using local Saudi knowledge. In total, 20 female university students who participated in an oral history project interviewed their family members to learn how Saudi Aramco affected them personally, their traditions, landscapes, and society more generally. Excerpts from the interviews are highlighted to expose the nuances experienced by the various research participants.

The Effect of Islamic Financing on the Growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in Indonesia

This study investigates the impact of Islamic financing on the growth of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia. Utilizing a quantitative approach, the research involved 110 MSMEs that have accessed Islamic financing products. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed through SPSS version 26, employing correlation and multiple regression analyses. The study focuses on three key growth indicators: profitability, market expansion, and operational efficiency. The results reveal that Islamic financing has a significant positive impact on all three indicators, with the strongest effect observed on operational efficiency. These findings highlight the potential of Islamic financing to promote MSME growth in Indonesia, providing valuable insights for policymakers, financial institutions, and business owners. The study contributes to the growing body of literature on Islamic finance and its role in supporting sustainable business practices.